Trade Support

Outcome

Legitimate and compliant trade is fostered by efficient border regulation.

While border security is fundamental to Customs’ role, fostering legitimate and compliant trade by way of efficient regulation and minimum imposition is critical to New Zealand’s economy.

Customs has an active role in trade negotiations, by monitoring and enforcing Rules of Origin negotiated under free trade agreements such as the Closer Economic Relations agreement with Australia (ANZCERTA) and the Closer Economic Partnership agreement between New Zealand and Singapore (ANZSCEP). This year Customs will contribute to the ongoing review of the ANZCERTA Rules of Origin and the full review of ANZSCEP, and will participate in negotiations associated with emerging trade partnership initiatives with Thailand, Chile/Singapore and China.

Strategic Goal 2003 – 2006

Customs will strengthen its ability to contribute to bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations, and comply with international treaties related to the movement of people, goods and craft across the border by:

• identifying the impact and expectations arising from conventions, agreements, treaties and protocols in order to take the necessary actions;
• providing more comprehensive advice and guidance on origin, valuation and tariff classification;
• increasing monitoring and control of the preferential entry of goods and people to meet government and industry expectations;
• improving the quality and management of information about New Zealand’s import and export trade; and
• enhancing operational alliances and information exchange programmes with national and international law enforcement agencies, community organisations and commercial entities.

This goal seeks to strengthen Customs’ ability to contribute to the negotiation of international trade agreements consistent with New Zealand’s interests, and to enforce the conditions of these agreements. Both New Zealand and other nations’ border regulations affect costs for New Zealand importers and exporters. This goal therefore focuses on containing border management costs by ensuring that international trade and security agreements are practical and realistic. During 2004/05, Customs will reassess this goal to ensure that it is still appropriate and relevant.

Performance Indicators

Progress towards achieving this outcome will be indicated by the levels of:

• compliance costs imposed on industry; and
• protection, through proper enforcement of Rules of Origin, provided to vulnerable domestic industries (e.g., textiles, footwear and clothing).