The following is a 23 February 2011 press release from the World Customs Organization (WCO).

On 22 February 2011, the Mission of the Republic of Romania to the European Union deposited Romania’s instrument of accession to the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures (revised Kyoto Convention) with the World Customs Organization.

The Convention is regarded as a blueprint for effective and modern Customs procedures, and will enter into force in Romania on 22 May 2011.

WCO Secretary General, Kunio Mikuriya said, “With Romania’s accession, all 27 Member States of the European Union are now Contracting Parties to this important Customs instrument which is acknowledged as one of the critical global standards for managing cross-border trade.”

Some of the Convention’s key elements include the application of simplified Customs procedures in a predictable and transparent environment, the maximum use of information technology, the utilization of risk management, a strong partnership with the trade and other stakeholders, and a readily accessible system of appeals.

Having entered into force on 3 February 2006, the revised Kyoto Convention now has 73 Contracting Parties.