WCO World Customs Organization : Publishes 2016 Picard Conference Call for Papers

The World Customs Organization has published the Call for Papers for the 11 annual Picard Conference which will take place in Manila, Philippines, 27-29 September 2016.

Although papers can be submitted on any topic that focuses on Customs or, more globally, the regulation, dynamics, and practices of international trade, authors seeking additional guidance could consider writing on Digital Customs; security; taxation and other revenue matters; and illicit trade.

Digital Customs, which is the WCO's annual theme for 2016, refers to any automated or electronic activity that contributes to the effectiveness, efficiency, and coordination of customs activities, such as automated customs clearance systems, the single window concept, the use of 'Big Data', electronic exchange of information, websites to communicate information and promote transparency, and the use of smart phones.

The security topic refers to the contribution of customs to secure territories at the border and against threats accompanying trade flows, in different frameworks and environments: from borderlands where trade is highly facilitated to conflict and post-conflict zones where customs and civilian enforcement agencies seek to restore the presence of the State.

Taxation and other revenue matters include, but are not limited to, the sub-themes of the relationship between transfer pricing and Customs valuation, the use of taxation to reduce negative externalities and internalities, informal trade practices, classification and valuation, excise taxes, and VAT.

The illicit trade topic includes any international trade non-compliant with cross-border regulations, including both prohibited and legal goods.

The Call for Papers is available here.