The role of the IATA/FIATA Customs Working Group (IFCWG) is to identify and understand Customs requirements that concern Carriers and Forwarders and that affect the Carrier/Forwarder relationship. The IFCWG provides procedural & operational responses to changes in customs provisions on behalf of the air cargo industry and identifies & implements necessary changes in IATA procedures and/or standards to comply with legislated requirements.
Initiatives Underway
Lobbying Canada Border Services Agency to:
- Amend its Customs legislation to extend liability for data to forwarders, as appropriate, not just carriers;
- Postpone implementation of penalties for the air mode.
Future Plans
- Establish a cooperative working relationship with other industry bodies at regional levels, e.g. the Association of European Airlines regarding upcoming European Union requirements, the Foreign Air Carriers Group regarding US CBP Air AMS penalties;
- Promotion of EDI standards and harmonized data sets to facilitate Customs reporting.
Meeting Schedule
Face-to-face meetings are held only when absolutely necessary. Tasks are completed using electronic means and/or conference calls as much as possible.
Membership
The IFCWG consists of 12 voting members, six apponted by IATA members and the other six appointed by FIATA. The Joint Chairmen of the group are Mr. Jean Dunaux (IATA) and Mr. John O'Connell (FIATA).
Contact
- Secretary
Bill Acheson
Manager, Cargo Business Process & Standards, IATA