A comment from the Secretary General of the ICC, accepting that isolationism and business are not ideal partners.
From Brexit, to US China relations, we are in interesting times. A core point in the video is that the economy is still not so bad on a global basis, reflected by real data, even in our niche.
Almost 200,000 ATA carnets were issued in 2018, from a system which is an enabler and barometer for international trade cooperation. Other initatives the ICC are pursuing reflect similar trends.
Their digital library to share regulatory and contract information has been upgraded due to demand. Other digital initiatives are picking up pace, such as an online facility to encourage reform through global dialogue.
The ICC are promoting sustainable development and offering a modern solution for dispute resolution, they are also our ultimate sword bearers.
ATA Carnet Promotion & Oversight
The carnet system is overseen by the World ATA Carnet Council, a body spun from the World Chambers Federation (WCF). The WCF is the ICC’s international forum, uniting thousands of chambers and their business communities.
They also liaise with multilateral organisations, such as the World Bank, or regional development banks, along with private sector development agencies and companies.
The aim is to help chambers and their members become more productive. Whilst many training and trading initiatives have arisen, we can honestly say that ATA carnets achieve more than most.
Even after many years, our business continues to grow, so we believe world trade is. Carnets may not directly reflect all avenues of trade, yet they are a facilitator which have helped so many companies establish relationships.
Beyond The Politics
Interesting to note the recent expansion of ATA carnet use in China. A government decision, which as with others elsewhere, is not in the same direction as the rhetoric.
The Chinese want to trade, so do most other nations. John Denton’s comments in the video are interesting and hard to disagree with, we simply feel that common sense and a wish to develop will overcome barriers.
ATA carnets are designed to help people visit other countries without hassle and focus on business. The ICC governed system they are part of can hopefully continue to help us all move forward together.