The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently integrated a new Cargo-XML messaging standard into the World Customs Organization’s (WCO’s) Cargo Targeting System, opening new communication and assessment capabilities.
“Simplifying processes, enhancing efficiency; and maximizing safety and security are in everybody’s interest–shippers, border authorities and airlines,” IATA’s Director General and CEO Alexandre de Juniac said. “Collaboration is critical. And the integration of Cargo-XML into WCO CTS is the latest example of the positive results that can be achieved. About a third of the value of goods traded across borders are transported by air.”
The integration allows communication between airlines and customs authorities, which the CTS can follow up on through capture of advance electronic cargo manifest information. It could potentially speed customs clearance and give them greater flexibility with their resources while modernizing the responsiveness of security.
“Effective electronic data exchange is integral for Customs authorities to build accurate risk assessments of cargo shipments,” WCO Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya said. “Integrating Cargo-XML into the WCO CTS will allow customs authorities using this tool to easily access detailed information about shipments, profile these shipments and identify those presenting a high-risk.”
The system will replace existing Cargo Interchange Message Procedures.