Project

A. General Information

1. Title

Electronic Exchange of Certificates of Origin between Rwanda and Uganda

2. Status of the project
Operating
3. Implementation period of the project/service:
From
Jul-2024
To
present
4. Website
https://chimpreports.com/uganda-rwanda-start-electronic-exchange-of-certificate…
5. Geographical coverage
Bilateral
Participating countries: Rwanda, Uganda
6. Participating agencies/entities of the project/service:
a. Development stage
Lead agencies/entities
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Other participating agencies/entities
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b. Operational stage
Lead agencies/entities (op)
Ministry of Trade Industry and Cooperatives
Uganda Revenue Authority
The Rwanda Revenue Authority
Other participating agencies/entities (op)
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7. Main stakeholders/beneficiaries of the project
Customs
8. Business process category of the project
Regulatory/official control

B. Lessons Learned

9. Summary description of the project/service
Brief Summary
Uganda and Rwanda have commenced electronic exchange of Certificates of Origin.
a. Objective(s)

The electronic exchange of Certificates of Origin between Uganda and Rwanda began as part of efforts to streamline trade, addressing issues like delays and high costs in traditional paper-based methods. This move is part of broader Northern Corridor Integration Projects, enhancing regional trade relations.

b. Business need for the project (background)

In international trade, where goods traverse borders and navigate across diverse regulations, the certificate of origin (CO) is a vital document.

c. Business process covered*

Ugandan exporters obtain electronic Certificates of Origin (COs) by applying through the ASYCUDA World digital platform. This system requires users to register and submit their applications online.

d. Overall architecture and functionalities*

Electronic Certificates of Origin (COs) are transmitted from exporting to importing nations using integrated digital systems. This process allows data exchange and typically utilizes internet-based or dedicated network lines, aligning with ASYCUDA system capabilities. Upon receipt, customs authorities in the importing country rigorously verify the CO's authenticity. They employ digital validation mechanisms to ensure its legitimacy and compliance with trade agreements such as those under COMESA and EAC. This verification is crucial for accurately determining applicable tariff preferences and ensuring regulatory adherence.

e. Relevant document/figure
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10. Documents and data exchanged via the project

Electronic Certificates of Origin

11. Data models/databases, proprietary solutions, hybrid approaches
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12. Main challenges faced during the project
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13. Lessons learned from the project
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14. Main benefit(s) of the project
Simplified process
14A. Elaborations/detailed description on benefits gained
--
15. Technical/financial/capacity building/other assistance
--
16. Future plan for expansion of the project
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17. Other information or relevant references on the project
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18. Relevant document regarding the project
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C. Relevant Standards

19. Name(s) of any international, national legal instrument underpinning the project
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20. Electronic message standard
20A. Electronic message standard supporting the project
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20B. Type of standard for electronic message applied for the project
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21. Technical communication standard
21A. Technical communication standard supporting the project
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21B. Type of technical communication standard applied for the project
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22. Security-related standards*
22A. Security-related standard supporting the project
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22B. Type of security-related standard applied for the project
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23. Other Technical Information
23A. Interface developed for data exchange with an internal system
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23B. Other technical implementation information
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