Humanitarian Customs: Lessons Learned Regarding Customs Response and Role in Supply Chain Continuity During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This paper, presented at the World Customs Organization (WCO) PICARD Web Conference 2020, analyses the challenges faced by Customs and the key stakeholders in the cross-border supply chain due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It documents the role of Customs in supply chain continuity by recording policy responses, innovative practices and technological solutions to highlight the initiatives taken for faster release of cargo including emergency relief cargo, hasslefree movement of international passengers and reduction in time and cost for the stakeholders in cross-border supply chains. For disseminating the lessons learned as a way of sharing best practices, the paper discusses how Indian Customs has facilitated the movement of goods while applying appropriate risk management; how Customs has enhanced communication, collaboration and cooperation with their Participating Government Agencies and the private sector; and what measures are being taken by Customs to protect their frontline officers. An analysis by the authors of dwell time data across major customs formations in India proved that the policy responses by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) yielded positive results through reduction in dwell time from May 2020 onwards. The authors have also analysed in detail the importance and effective role of the WCO in supply chain continuity across the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic.