The Dubai Chamber of Commerce has not held back on coronavirus controls and are equally focused on a virtual market access program. This is designed to replicate international business matchmaking they offered in the real world.
Promotional activities are at the heart of their pandemic countermeasures. In the second quarter of 2020, the Chamber’s overseas offices held over 500 online meetings with potential investors, alongside virtual events to promote their country.
The Dubai office is equally engaged, holding a series of business webinars to share knowledge, including ATA carnet use. They see their recent carnet membership as an opportunity in current times and are not alone.
International Developments
Our post from November 13, 2017 mentions slow progress being made on carnet use in the Philippines. Their stated objective of joining the ATA carnet family was not materialising but economic changes from Covid-19 have helped to bring action.
This June, President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Instrument of Accession for the Customs Convention on the ATA Carnet, the next stage in working towards membership and duty free temporary admission of goods.
Carnet acceptance for trade fairs and exhibitions is a stated priority, although their DTI Secretary made clear they wish to use all opportunities.
China has already improved ATA carnet use in recent times, by accepting wider categories and through internal training. They want to do more, with the third China International Import Expo due to take place in November.
The Shanghai exhibition is a major event for China, which offers those attending tax guarantees and other financial incentives. This year, the inclusivity and validity period of ATA carnets will be extended.
Encouraging A Positive Flow
From customs regulation changes, to electronic health declarations, countries are doing more to make themselves accessible for business. ATA carnets are not going to solve all coronavirus issues but they can assist.
Other adopters, such as Brazil and India are educating business owners in carnet use and improving local facilities. ATA carnets are a small but essential cog in the business wheel we need to keep turning, to provide income to sustain health.
Our team are keeping up to date with developments across the globe. By all means see our introduction to ATA carnet services, or get in touch if we can play a part in your business moving forward at a demanding time.