The situation we saw unfold earlier this year has not gone away but thought is being given to future trade in a number of countries.
With 190,000 ATA carnets issued globally in 2019, the system has become a pivotal part of world trade. That has subsided in recent times but increasing carnet usage is seen by some countries as part of recovery.
Dubai, a quite recent member of the carnet family has been running digital seminars during restrictions, to spread ATA carnet knowledge. They have also launched a free collection and delivery service for carnets.
China, who recently extended the carnet categories they accept, have been remote training staff on this and other aspects.
Brazil are now the leading carnet users in Latin America, ahead of Mexico and Chile. They are making notable efforts to spread the word amongst businesses of all sizes and even in current circumstances, see ATA carnets as positive.
Their service coordinator commented how carnets have reduced red tape and paperwork flow. Less paper to touch and fewer people moving across departments to process this, useful ways to cut virus transmission.
Assisting Health
The UK have set aside duties on a number of medical items, including temporary entries for coronavirus research. A number of other countries have done the same but the leeway will not apply to every item, or location.
ATA carnet use has dropped but they are playing a part in a key fight, by facilitating movement and reducing hassle for those with greater concerns.
On another health point, we would like to set aside any anxiety caused by press reports in a few countries, on the UK’s proposed post Brexit tariffs (UKGT).
To an extent a negotiating tool and not set in stone, UKGT in any event only deals with tariffs. Suggestions this will restrict carnet use are inaccurate, the ATA carnet system is a separate, globally agreed convention.
UKGT propsals may replace the European Union Common External Tariff (EUCET) in 2021 but whichever country you are dealing with, carnet use should be unhindered.
Wishing You Well
Many of our clients and a broad range of UK businesses have been seriously hindered by the arrival of coronavirus. We wish every individual a safe passage to the other side of the epidemic and their companies too.
As part of a group built on international trade, as quiet as things are, we believe the will is always there to trade. Whatever difficulties we still face, by working together across borders, we can overcome them.