China customs' reform: Approaches to improving the professionalism of customs clearing agents to enhance trade facilitation

Abstract

A professional approach to customs service by a range of stakeholders is essential to the efficient and effective provision of that service and to enhance trade facilitation. This paper presents a case study on the role of customs clearing agents (clearing agents) in China Customs' reform where proactive measures are implemented in line with the World Customs Organization's (WCO) conventions, standards and acknowledged best practices. However, it is noted that the regulation of clearing agents differs from country to country even though those agents are playing a key role in facilitating global trade. This paper contends that improving the professionalism of clearing agents through training and licensing programs will add value to their role as reliable stakeholders in customs reform and identifies approaches that have been implemented by China Customs to achieve this.