New Zealand ratifies Trade Facilitation Agreement

New Zealand has become the 19th WTO member to formally accept the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Ambassador Vangelis Vitalis submitted New Zealand’s instrument of acceptance of the TFA to WTO Director-General Roberto Azevêdo on September 29, 2015.
Concluded at the WTO’s 2013 Bali Ministerial Conference, the TFA contains provisions for expediting the movement, release and clearance of goods, including goods in transit. It also sets out measures for effective cooperation between customs and other appropriate authorities on trade facilitation and customs compliance issues. It further contains provisions for technical assistance and capacity building in this area.
Press-release at the official WTO web-site