SAARC sub-group on customs cooperation holds 10th meeting in Kathmandu

KATHMANDU, Oct 4: The Tenth Meeting of the SAARC Sub-Group on Customs Cooperation took place in Kathmandu on October 1-2, 2024. Delegations from SAARC member states discussed the final draft of a study on harmonizing 8-digit HS tariff lines. The study, conducted by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), aims to create uniform tariff lines across member countries to ease trade and reduce distortion.

According to the press statement issued by the organization, the meeting examined the draft of the SAARC Common Nomenclature and discussed steps to implement the study, including a timeline for completion. Harmonizing tariff lines is expected to simplify customs procedures, reduce delays, and enhance regional economic cooperation.

The group also discussed aligning mandatory and additional documentation for faster customs clearance and improving interoperability between customs systems across the SAARC region.