The World Customs Organization (WCO) has published an indicative list compiling information on essential supplies for the manufacturing, distribution and administration of COVID-19 vaccines in order to streamline the functioning of global supply chains and facilitate cross-border trade in these medical supplies.
According to the statement, the list was developed jointly with the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), some COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers and other organizations. This joint effort enabled, among other things, the development of guidance materials to facilitate the cross-border movement of critical medical supplies, including highlighting the existing HS classification for critical medicines, vaccines and associated medical supplies required for their manufacture, distribution and use.
It is clarified that the List, published on July 13, 2021, is purely indicative and is subject to clarifications, modifications and improvements based on input from pharmaceutical and customs experts. It is based on the 2017 version of the Harmonized System (HS) and is without prejudice to the actual tariff classification assigned by the customs administrations of WTO members at the time of importation.
The release said it was first compiled by the WTO Secretariat as a working document to facilitate discussions at the Organization’s Symposium on COVID-19 Vaccine Supply Chain and Regulatory Transparency held on 29 June. “For the publication, the WCO has made a major effort to assess the classifications and present these classifications and descriptions of the products on the list,” it said.
The list covers 83 critical vaccine entries, which include those based on mRNA nucleic acid as active ingredients, various inactive and other ingredients, consumables, equipment, packaging and associated products, with their probable 6-digit HS code.
Finally, the WCO recommends that economic operators consult with the relevant customs administrations regarding classification at national level (7 or more digits) or in case of discrepancy between their practices and this indicative list. (WCO Press Release) (WTO Press Release)
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