Differences in customs processes between Central American countries to date are preventing them from trading as a block, in this case, with the EU.
According to the manager of the Integration and Trade Sector at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Antoni Estevadeordal, trade agreements themselves are not a guarantee of success."It is not enough to have a policy of openness. To take advantage of the treaties you must have production policies that are short and long term, in education, innovation, and especially in internal infrastructure, which are the ones that at the end of the day let you take advantage of the deals," he said.
Advances made in the past two years in the Central American customs offices are still not sufficient, and related costs amount to 38% of logistics costs.
The best advances have been made in customs processes relating to merchandise transported between Central American countries.
The World Customs Organization and SIECA will sign an agreement to support Central America in harmonizing and standardizing custom procedures.
Currently, Central America has 96% of its tariff code harmonized, and the remaining 4% will be discussed over the next two years. A unique, harmonized tariff code should be ready by 2012, when the Association Agreement with the European Union is expected to come into effect.
español
2145
