Terms of Reference

Customs Domian
Terms of Reference
Revised - September 2002
Terms of Reference

1. Definition of the specific technical issue(s) to be addressed

   The Customs Domain Group (TBG4) is responsible for the development and maintenance of EDI messages exchanged between Trade and Customs.

   This includes messages such as:

   Customs Cargo Report Message (CUSCAR),
   Customs Declaration Message (CUSDEC),
   Customs Express Consignment Declaration Message (CUSEXP),
   Periodic Customs Declaration Message (CUSPED),
   Customs Conveyance Report Message (CUSREP),
   Customs Response Message (CUSRES),
   Passenger List Message (PAXLST),
   International Movement of Goods Governmental Regulatory Message (SANCRT),
   Value Added Tax Message (VATDEC).
   and
   The WCO Customs Data Model

    

   Messages to be developed are based on the Revised Kyoto Convention (on the Simplification and Harmonisation of Customs Procedures) and will be developed in the context of trade facilitation according to the principles established by CEFACT as stated in R.650. Therefore, they shall take into account principles of best business practice from within the Customs Administrations and advice from other relevant groups in UN/CEFACT.

2. Detailed description of the proposed deliverables

   The key deliverables of Customs Domain Group as specified in the work plan include:

   • The WCO Customs Data Model
   • UN/EDIFACT messages in the field of Customs;
   • Providing review comments on horizontal issues such as Message Design Guidelines, the EDIFACT syntax, ebXML, etc.; and
   • Preparation of principles and rules for implementation of UN/EDIFACT messages through the World Customs Organization (WCO).

    

3. Membership

   The Customs Domain Group is concerned with Customs matters. Membership is open to all experts of Customs Administrations and designated Observer Organisations.

4. Administrative Team Structure

   The Customs Domain Group will consist of a Chair, Vice Chair, and members as specified in "Membership" above.

5. Time Schedule and Milestones

   The Customs Domain Group Work Plan shall determine the time schedule for all group activities.

6. Proposals for liaison with other working groups and external organisations

   The Customs Domain Group shall co-operate and establish liaisons with all of the UN/CEFACT Forum groups and ad hoc groups as required.

   In addition, the Customs Domain Group shall establish liaisons with other organisations as required, for example:

   EAN International
   Universal Postal Union (UPU)
   International Airline Transport Association (IATA)
   International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH)
   International Express Carriers Conference (IECC)
   International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
   The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA)
   The European Commission
   International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations (IFCBA)
   International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) etc.
    

The site was last updated 2007-01-09