Regional Workshop Advances Implementation of Tariff Commitments under PACER Plus
APIA, Samoa – Customs officials from eight Pacific Island countries have concluded a three-day Regional Workshop on Transposition of Tariff Commitments and Product-Specific Rules (PSRs) under the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus). The workshop, held in Apia, Samoa, from 16-18 September 2025, brought together officials from the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. The workshop was designed to help countries align their PACER Plus tariff schedules and product-specific rules with the latest version of the Harmonised System (HS), an internationally standardised system of names and numbers used to classify traded products. Periodic updates to the HS ensure that trade rules keep pace with new products and changing technologies. Ms. Sisilia Asel Lui from Vanuatu Customs and Inland Revenue makes a point at the workshop. For Pacific Island member countries of the PACER Plus, updating tariff commitments and PSRs is essential to ensure that goods can move freely and fairly across borders of the PACER Plus Parties. Without these updates, countries risk inconsistencies in how goods are treated, which could create unnecessary trade barriers, confusion for traders, and revenue collection implications. “HS 2022 introduced over 350 sets of amendments to product classifications, and Pacific Island countries need to update their commitments to reflect these changes. This workshop provided a valuable opportunity to work through technical issues together, harmonise approaches, and set realistic timelines for implementation.” Mr. Saba Vallipuram, Tariff and Rules of Origin Expert, who has been assisting PACER Plus countries with this process since early 2025 As of January 2025, countries were at different stages of updating their tariff commitments. Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu have made progress with draft HS2022 transposed schedules, while others such as Kiribati and Tuvalu were slightly behind. The Solomon Islands recently finalised its updated tariff schedule. This week’s workshop has helped remaining countries, particularly Kiribati and Tuvalu, to take concrete steps towards completing their schedules. It also equips countries with the knowledge and tools for the next transposition to HS2028. Mrs. Annette Kotela Ibe, Team Leader Technical at the Ministry of Finance’s Customs and Excise Division in Solomon Islands, noted the importance of the workshop for building regional consistency: “For Pacific Island countries like ours, aligning tariff commitments and product-specific rules is not just about compliance. It’s also about creating a level playing field for our businesses. This workshop gave us clarity and practical tools to move forward. It also reassures traders that PACER Plus countries are committed to facilitating trade in a fair and transparent way.” Customs officials from eight Pacific Island countries at the three-day Regional Workshop on Transposition of Tariff Commitments and Product-Specific Rules under PACER Plus in Apia, Samoa. At the close of the workshop, participants agreed on next steps to finalise their updated tariff commitment schedules, address pending comments from earlier technical reviews, and complete the necessary legislative processes to adopt the new transposed HS2022 schedules. For Pacific exporters and importers, this work means simpler, clearer, and more predictable trade rules. For governments, it strengthens the foundation for economic growth by ensuring that PACER Plus continues to deliver on its promise of expanding regional trade and investment. -ENDS- More articles like this one
Pacific Trade Strengthened as Regional Workshop Concludes in Honiara
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Pacific Regional Advanced Trade in Goods Workshop, a key event aimed at strengthening trade capacity in the Pacific, has successfully concluded. The three-day workshop, held from 12-14 August 2024, was organised through a partnership between the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU). Mr. Colin Beck (center), Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade with Mr. Andrew Schloeffel (fifth from left), Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and government officials from PACER Plus Pacific countries at the Pacific Regional Advanced Trade in Goods Workshop in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The workshop brought together government officials from Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu to deepen their understanding of the rules-based trading system, World Trade Organisation (WTO) structures, agreements, and the challenges and opportunities they present to Pacific Island countries. Participants also explored the intricacies of multilateral and regional trade agreements, including PACER Plus, and their applications within the region. Mr. Colin Beck, Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade. In his opening remarks, Mr. Colin Beck, Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, highlighted the significance of PACER Plus supporting customs automation and improvement in biosecurity measures in Solomon Islands. “PACER Plus has the potential to be a powerful tool for our development, but it is crucial that its initiatives are country-initiated and country-led. There is an opportunity to strengthen delivery of PACER Plus initiatives, ensuring it truly meets the needs of our people.” Colin Beck, Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Mr. Andrew Schloeffel, Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, highlighted the role of trade in driving sustainable growth and economic resilience in the Pacific. “Under PACER Plus, all member countries have tariff and quota-free access to Australia. This covers all product lines — 100 percent of products exported enter Australia duty-free. And this commitment will continue irrespective of the development status of each member country.” Andrew Schloeffel, Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands The workshop is part of broader capacity-building efforts for the Pacific region, designed to enhance the understanding of trade-related issues and support the economic integration of Pacific Island countries into the global trading system. -ENDS- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Joint Committee Charts Strategic Path Forward for Pacific Trade and Development
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Eighth Meeting of the PACER Plus Joint Committee concluded on Tuesday 6 May 2025 in Honiara, Solomon Islands, bringing together senior government officials from Australia, Cook Islands, Kiribati, New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. Chaired by Ambassador Collin Beck, Permanent Secretary of the Solomon Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, the two-day meeting provided a crucial platform for Parties to review progress, reimagine the future of PACER Plus, and strengthen regional economic integration. Senior government officials from the ten PACER Plus Parties gathered in Honiara, Solomon Islands for the Eighth PACER Plus Joint Committee Meeting. Ambassador Beck underscored the significance of PACER Plus in navigating today’s uncertain global trade environment. “PACER Plus was envisioned as a pathway toward deepening economic integration across the Blue Pacific Continent by creating a predictable, rules-based trade environment and unlocking targeted development assistance through the PACER Plus Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) Work Programme. This meeting was an opportunity to reflect on the past, reimagine the Agreement’s next phase, and ensure it delivers meaningful impact for our people.” Ambassador Collin Beck, Permanent Secretary of the Solomon Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade The DEC Work Programme, funded by Australia and New Zealand, is a cornerstone of PACER Plus implementation, designed to support Pacific Island countries in building trade capacity, strengthening industries, and overcoming barriers to economic growth. It provides targeted assistance in areas such as export development, trade facilitation, and skills training, ensuring that Pacific Parties can fully benefit from regional and global trade opportunities. Ms. Natalia Patternot, Director, Department of External Trade with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in Solomon Islands speaks at the PACER Plus Joint Committee Meeting. The meeting approved high-level strategic priorities for the next DEC Work Programme cycle (2025-2030) commencing the work towards confirming arrangements required for continuation of the DEC Work Programme beyond 2025. Discussions emphasised the need for a sharper focus on export development, value chain strengthening, reducing shipping and logistics costs, and targeted skills development. The meeting also highlighted the importance of private sector engagement, digital trade as a key economic driver, and the alignment of strategic priorities with measurable 2030 targets under the Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Adaptation (MELA) Framework. Parties reaffirmed PACER Plus as a vital mechanism for regional economic integration, in line with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. Expanding membership remains a key priority, with commitments to advocate for new members to join the Agreement. Mr. Alan Armistead, Director of International and Trade Affairs Division with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Cook Islands speaks at the PACER Plus Joint Committee Meeting. Australia and New Zealand provided updates on the current internal governance reviews required to confirm resourcing for the next DEC Work Programme (2025-2030). Ambassador Beck expressed gratitude on behalf of all Parties: “We deeply appreciate the ongoing commitment of Australia and New Zealand to PACER Plus, both through their current funding and their expressed support for the next phase. Their partnership is instrumental in ensuring Pacific nations can harness trade for sustainable development.” The Joint Committee reaffirmed Parties’ commitment to the rules-based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organisation at its core. A joint statement was adopted as follows: “We affirm our commitment to a transparent, non-discriminatory, and open rules-based multilateral trading system which provides certainty and predictability for businesses, builds trust and confidence among consumers, and underpins the growth of international trade and development. In the face of mounting challenges, including disruptions in global supply chains, rising protectionism and climate change, our collective commitment to these principles and the maintenance of trade openness is more crucial than ever,” the statement read. Parties also pledged to uphold a special and differential treatment for Small Island Developing States, ensuring tailored support to safeguard food security, livelihoods, and effective participation in global trade. The outcomes of this meeting will guide the next phase of PACER Plus, ensuring it remains responsive to the needs of the Pacific and delivers tangible benefits for the region. To read the full Eighth PACER Plus Joint Committee Outcome Summary, please click here. -ENDS- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Talanoa Concludes with Commitments to Strengthen Pacific Economies
APIA, Samoa – The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) hosted the second Revenue Mobilisation Talanoa for PACER Plus Signatories this week in Apia, Samoa. The Talanoa brought together senior officials from customs, tax administrations, and finance ministries across the Pacific to address the challenges and opportunities of revenue mobilisation in the context of trade liberalisation under PACER Plus. Representatives from the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Nauru attended the four-day event, which ran from 25-28 February 2025. Representatives from the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Nauru attended the four-day Talanoa, which ran from 25-28 February 2025. The Talanoa, which follows the inaugural Revenue Mobilisation Talanoa held in Nadi, Fiji, in February 2024, focused on improving indirect revenue mobilisation through efficient taxation, broadening the tax base, and closing the tax gap. Participants explored short-term actions and long-term structural reforms needed to enhance revenue administration and collection. Mr. Alipate Tavo, Trade Adviser at PPIU and moderator of the workshop, highlighted the importance of the Talanoa in addressing the region’s unique challenges. “The PACER Plus Agreement has brought economic opportunities to the Pacific, but it has also highlighted the need for robust revenue mobilisation strategies. This Talanoa has been a critical platform for sharing experiences, identifying best practices, and developing actionable plans to ensure that our countries can adapt to the changing economic landscape while maintaining fiscal stability.” Mr. Alipate Tavo For Samoa, where customs duties account for a significant portion of government revenue, the stakes are particularly high. Mr. Magotaamu Salanoa, the Principal Customs Officer-Trade with Samoa’s Ministry of Customs and Revenue, stressed the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. “Samoa, like many Pacific countries, relies on customs duties for revenue. The discussions here have been invaluable in helping us identify practical solutions to mitigate revenue losses while exploring new opportunities to diversify our tax base. The insights gained from this Talanoa will guide our efforts to strengthen Samoa’s economic resilience.” Mr. Magotaamu Salanoa Ms. Pipiena Tanaki, the Deputy CEO of Tonga’s Ministry of Revenue and Customs. Ms. Pipiena Tanaki, the Deputy CEO of Tonga’s Ministry of Revenue and Customs, shared her perspective on the role of technology in improving revenue collection. “Modernising our customs systems and leveraging technology is important for improving efficiency and accuracy in revenue collection. This workshop has reinforced the importance of investment in capacity building and digital solutions to address the administrative gaps in our tax systems.” Ms. Pipiena Tanaki The workshop featured sessions on key topics such as the role of customs administrations in collecting Value Added Tax (VAT) and Goods and Services Tax (GST), the impact of trade liberalisation on revenue, and strategies for optimising revenue through tax policies. Understanding the impacts of tax expenditures on revenue collection and good tax administration practice to improve revenue collection were also covered. Additionally, participants discussed the challenges of cross-border e-commerce, valuation issues, and the need for regional cooperation to address complex revenue mobilisation challenges. The Revenue Mobilisation Talanoa has been organised in collaboration with the Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Center, the Pacific Islands Tax Administration Association, the Oceania Customs Organisation, and the International Monetary Fund. “As we implement PACER Plus, our customs administrations must evolve to meet new revenue collection challenges. This Talanoa provides a vital platform for Pacific customs agencies to share practical solutions and strengthen our regional approach to revenue mobilisation while facilitating trade modernisation.” Ms. Nancy Oraka, Head of the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO). The Revenue Mobilisation Talanoa has been organised in collaboration with the Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Center, the Pacific Islands Tax Administration Association, the OCO, and the International Monetary Fund. The workshop’s outcomes will contribute to the development of a comprehensive roadmap for revenue mobilisation across the Pacific, ensuring that PACER Plus signatories can continue to fund essential services while promoting economic growth. The Talanoa, which concluded today (28 February), provided an opportunity to explore revenue mobilisation in the context of the impacts of PACER Plus but the need for revenue to fund the social and economic needs of countries is ever present. -END- More articles like this one
From Cacao Beans to Fruity Bars
Cathliro Commodities, a women-led, locally owned cocoa producer and exporter in Solomon Islands, has taken a significant step forward in its operations with the recent handover of a food dehydrator machine. The equipment, officially delivered in September 2024 and funded by the PACER Plus Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) Work Programme, is set to enhance the company’s ability to produce value-added cocoa products and diversify into dried fruits. This support marks a turning point for the small business, which has become a beacon of hope for local farmers and a rising player in the international cocoa market. Diana Yates (far left), Cathliro Commodities founder, with Collin Beck (second from left), Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade at the dehydrator handover along with Natalia Patternot (third from left), Director of Department of External Trade and Tristein Zutu, PACER Plus National Coordinator Solomon Islands. Cathliro Commodities was founded by Ms. Diana Yates, a determined entrepreneur with a vision to elevate Solomon Islands’ cocoa industry. Her 99-hectare cocoa farm, based in Guadalcanal, has been instrumental in connecting local farmers from nearby provinces, including Isabel and Makira, to international markets. The company purchases cocoa beans from over 200 local growers, transforming these raw materials into high-quality cocoa products for export. But the company’s ambition doesn’t stop there—Cathliro is diversifying its product line to include dried fruits like pineapple, banana, and pawpaw, a move that the new dehydrator will help realise. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET), Mr. Collin Beck, emphasised the significance of empowering local producers like Cathliro Commodities. The PACER Plus-funded food dehydrator machine is set to enhance Cathliro’s ability to produce value-added cocoa products and diversify into dried fruits. “Cathliro’s progress demonstrates the potential of Solomon Islands’ agricultural sector, not only to enhance food security but also to build wealth from within. By empowering local farmers, Cathliro is helping them integrate meaningfully into the formal economy,” said Mr. Beck. “We encourage everyone to support local producers—whether by drinking cocoa tea, using cocoa powder in your baking, or purchasing our new fruit-infused cocoa bars.” The new dehydrator, Mr. Beck explained, will enable Cathliro to sustain and expand its production of high-value cocoa products, providing a boost to both domestic markets and international exports. The equipment is also expected to enhance the company’s capacity to process fruits, tapping into a growing niche market for dried tropical fruits and cocoa-based products in boutique overseas markets. For Ms. Diana Yates, the founder of Cathliro Commodities, the new equipment is a game-changer. “This support from PACER Plus is a big win for us. We’ve been working tirelessly to grow our business and help local farmers, but this dehydrator opens up a new world of opportunities,” she said. “Now, we can diversify our products and ensure sustainability in our operations, whatever the weather. We’re able to expand our drying techniques and process a larger volume of both cocoa and fruit, which is crucial for entering new markets.” The dehydrator will enable Cathliro to boost the production of cocoa paste, cocoa nibs, cocoa powder, cocoa tea, fruity chocolate bars, and a range of dried fruit products. These innovations are part of the company’s broader effort to move from raw material exports to high-value, finished goods that meet international standards. PACER Plus’s support extended beyond equipment, including valuable capacity-building initiatives for Cathliro’s staff. Ms. Yates shared that staff members received both online and hands-on training, some of which took place in Australia. The Cathliro team after the completion of the PACER Plus-funded five-day chocolate training program with South Pacific Cacao trainer (center). “Our team has grown so much thanks to the training provided by PACER Plus. It’s been transformative,” she said. “The capacity-building workshops helped our staff develop new products like our fruity cocoa bars, and we’re even working on launching nutty bars soon. This progress wouldn’t have been possible without PACER Plus’s support.” Looking ahead, Cathliro is set to improve the quality of its offerings and scale its operations to meet international export requirements. With the help of PACER Plus, Cathliro Commodities is not only elevating Solomon Islands’ cocoa industry but also providing a blueprint for local businesses to grow, innovate, and thrive in regional and global markets. More articles like this one
Solomon Islands Enhances Trade Readiness with PACER Plus Rules of Origin Workshop
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in close partnership with the Solomon Islands Customs and Excise Division conducted a Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Rules of Origin Workshop for stakeholders in Honiara, Solomon Islands, on 25 June. Participants of the workshop included government agencies’ officials and private sector stakeholders. Participants of the PACER Plus Rules of Origin Workshop included government agencies’ officials and private sector stakeholders. In her opening remarks, the Deputy Director of External Trade in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Jenny Barile welcomed all the participants, stating that though it is the private sector who trades, it is the government who plays an important role in setting necessary policies to facilitate and oversee trade. She stressed that the PACER Plus Agreement represents a significant opportunity for Solomon Islands to be more active players in and benefit from regional and international trade. Ms. Barile said since its entry into force on 13 December 2020, Australia and New Zealand has reduced their tariff to zero percent on products imported from PACER Plus countries, including Solomon Islands, thereby providing greater market access into Australia and New Zealand for our products. However, these products must meet the PACER Plus Rules of Origin requirements. Rules of Origin are the criteria’s that must be met to determine the origin of a product and qualify for preferential treatment. It is important that local processors, exporters, customs officers, and customs brokers are well-versed with the PACER Plus Rules of Origin criteria. Ms. Barile said the Rules of Origin Chapter of the Agreement makes it easier for parties, including Solomon Islands, to claim these preferential or zero tariff by setting out the conditions on which goods will be treated as originating. The objectives of the workshop are multifaceted and crucial for the successful implementation of the Agreement. The training covered the foundational concepts of the Rules of Origin, understanding the specific origin criteria under PACER Plus and delved into the processes involved in origin certification. It is designed to ensure that each participant leaves with a more comprehensive understanding of these rules and the ability to apply this knowledge in their daily operations. Ms. Barile said by doing so, it will not only strengthen our compliance but also enhance our capacity to competitively trade externally. “It is our hope that this will lead to an increase in our exports to Australia and New Zealand, thereby advancing our economy,” she added. -ENDS- More articles like this one
Trade Information Portal Streamlines Pacific Trade Processes
APIA, Samoa – The PACER Plus Regional Workshop on Trade Information Portals (TIPs) commenced on Tuesday 4 June in Apia, Samoa. This workshop aims to enhance the accessibility of trade-related information for PACER Plus countries to increase their regulatory transparency in trade and investment-related capacity to reach the standards set out in PACER Plus. A TIP is a one-stop website where countries can access information on trade import and export procedures, laws, and regulations, for engaging in international trade. This platform makes complex trade procedures understandable by displaying them step-by-step from start to finish, from a trader’s point of view. Government officials from PACER Plus parties – Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and UNCTAD – were present at the Regional Workshop on Trade Information Portals in Apia, Samoa. The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus is a unique trade agreement designed to raise living standards, create jobs, and boost exports from Pacific Island countries. By lowering trade barriers, PACER Plus provides greater certainty for businesses operating in the Pacific region. Julian Fraga-Campos, Economic Affairs Officer at the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), is leading the training sessions. “The establishment of Trade Information Portals is crucial for increasing transparency, enhancing predictability and facilitating smoother trade processes within the PACER Plus framework,” said Mr. Fraga-Campos. Alipate Tavo (left), PACER Plus Implementation Unit’s Trade and Investment Adviser, speaks at the closing of the Regional Workshop on Trade Information Portals with Julian Fraga-Campos, Economic Affairs Officer at the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Government officials from PACER Plus parties – Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu – were present at the workshop. The workshop focuses on the creation of capacity among government officials for the implementation, management and sustainability of TIPs, as well as in providing training on notifications send through Contact Points and awareness of its obligations to ensure that all PACER Plus countries are informed and able to comply with the agreement’s standards. Alipate Tavo, PACER Plus Implementation Unit’s (PPIU) Trade and Investment Adviser, emphasised the importance of cooperation among PACER Plus countries. “As part of the PACER Plus agreement, countries have an obligation to share trade information and policy amendments with other PACER Plus parties. This ensures a cohesive and transparent trading environment that benefits everyone involved.” Keity Tuiloma from Samoa’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour (left) with Verleena Nooapii from the Cook Islands at the Regional Workshop on Trade Information Portals in Apia, Samoa. Mrs. Angoango Fakaua from Kiribati’s Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives highlighted the impact of the workshop on her country’s trade practices. “This training is important for Kiribati as it equips us with the tools needed to streamline our trade processes and align with regional standards. It is an important step towards improving our trade infrastructure.” Ms. Ann Warsal from Vanuatu’s Department of Customs and Inland Revenue shared similar sentiments. “The Trade Information Portal has simplified the complexities of international trade regulations for Vanuatu, making it easier for our businesses to navigate and comply with trade requirements.” Ms. Keity Tuiloma from Samoa’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour added, “Having a centralised source of trade information not only promotes efficiency but also enhances our ability to engage in international trade more effectively. This workshop is an important opportunity for us to learn and implement best practices.” The four-day training concludes on Friday 7 June. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Workshop Empowers Pacific Countries in Revenue Mobilisation
NADI, Fiji – The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) is currently hosting a three-day Dialogue for Revenue Mobilisation for PACER Plus parties in Nadi, Fiji. The event, which started today 27 February, will conclude on 29 February. This regional initiative targets the customs and tax administrations of PACER Plus parties and signatories, including Australia, Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. The dialogue is a collaborative effort with key partners, including the Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Centre (PFTAC), the Pacific Islands Tax Administrators Association (PITAA), and the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO). Participants at the PACER Plus Dialogue for Revenue Mobilisation in Nadi, Fiji. The primary focus of the dialogue is on capacity building, empowering officials to effectively manage revenues. Mr. Alipate Tavo, PPIU Trade Adviser, highlighted the significance of this workshop, stating, “This talanoa is a unique opportunity to enhance the capacity of our officials, equipping them with the skills needed to navigate the evolving economic landscape and promote sustainable growth in the Pacific.” The dialogue serves as a platform for knowledge sharing on best practices for tax regimes and revenue administration. It encourages strategic planning, fostering discussions on short-term actions and long-term structural reforms to enhance revenue administration and collection. Illustrating the commitment to regional collaboration, the dialogue aligns with PACER Plus’s overarching goal of increasing trade in the region. By engaging with key partners, it strengthens regional cooperation in improving tax regimes and ensuring the sustainable economic growth of Pacific Island countries. The outcomes of the dialogue extend beyond immediate capacity building. Improved regulatory and policy reforms are anticipated, supporting Rules of Origin (ROO) obligations and tariff commitments. -END- More articles like this one
Regional Refresher Training on PACER Plus Rules of Origin Empowers Trainers
NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga – The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) Implementation Unit (PPIU) successfully organised the Rules of Origin Train the Trainers Workshop in collaboration with key regional and international partners. The event took place in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, from 16-20 October 2023. The regional workshop’s goal was to equip trainers with the knowledge and skills necessary to bridge the existing gaps in training and ensure effective implementation of PACER Plus Rules of Origin. This initiative, co-funded by the PPIU and the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO), aimed to enhance the capacity of trainers in the Pacific region to deliver national and regional capacity building on Rules of Origin (RoO). Partners involved in this initiative included the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Charles Sturt University’s Center for Customs and Excise Studies (CCES), New Zealand Customs Service, United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the Tonga Ministry of Revenue and Customs and Ministry of Trade and Economic Development. Mr. Alipate Tavo, PPIU Trade in Goods Adviser, emphasised the significance of collaboration, saying, “This cooperation is imperative to ensure synergies in capacitating trainers in the Pacific to deliver national and regional capacity building on Rules of Origin under various trade agreements such as PACER Plus, Pacific Islands Countries Trade Agreement, Melanesian Spearhead Group Trade Agreement, Interim Economic Partnership Agreement, and the UK Developing Countries Trading Scheme.” PACER Plus holds enormous potential for the Pacific. However, realising these gains hinges on simplifying RoO for businesses and private sector stakeholders. Properly classifying products under the Harmonised System (HS) is a complex task, and the workshop focused on addressing these challenges. “Stakeholders can better utilise and benefit from duty free and quota free preferences when they understand the RoO, including how to access and undertake the necessary procedure,” said Mr. Tavo. The workshop’s goal was to equip trainers with the knowledge and skills necessary to bridge the existing gaps in training and ensure effective implementation of PACER Plus RoO, contributing to increased utilisation rates and benefits for the region. -END- More articles like this one
Pacific Trade Officials Convene for Trade in Goods Course
Regional trade officials at the Pacific Regional Introductory Trade in Goods Course in Suva, Fiji. Photo: Fiji Government Regional trade officials at the Pacific Regional Introductory Trade in Goods Course in Suva, Fiji. Photo: Fiji Government The five-day capacity-building event, funded by the Australian Government and organised by the University of Adelaide’s Institute for International Trade in collaboration with Fiji’s Ministry for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communication, aims to empower Pacific trade officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance trade relations within the region and beyond. The Course was opened by Hon. Mr. Manoa Kamikamica, Fiji’s Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, highlighting the importance of such capacity-building efforts. “Together, we have the opportunity to leverage this training to bolster our collective efforts in regional and multilateral forums, shaping discussions, and advocating for the interests of our region on the international stage. I am confident that the knowledge and skills gained here will empower you all to navigate the complexities of global trade and create lasting positive impacts for our respective economies,” said Hon. Kamikamica. The Pacific Regional Introductory Trade in Goods Course’s primary objective is to provide a refresher on the current state of play in regional and international trade relations. This includes updating technical knowledge of Pacific regional trade agreements and international rules-based trading systems such as the World Trade Organisation. Participation in the course is part of the PPIU’s overall aim to develop Parties to build their trade capacities and allow them to effectively implement their obligations under the multilateral arrangements and regional trade agreements including PACER Plus. -END- More articles like this one