Global Trade takes a digital leap with eATA rollout in 30 countries: WCO

BRUSSELS : WCO and ICC launch digital ATA Carnet to facilitate temporary admission of goods
The European Union, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom are the first Customs administrations to implement the digital process on 1 June 2026. Customs administrations are all expected to shift to the digital carnets by the end of 2027. The World Customs Organization (WCO) welcomes the launch of the digital ATA Carnet by the first group of Contracting Parties to the ATA Convention and the Istanbul Convention — the European Union, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

This important milestone represents a major advancement in the modernization of international Customs and trade procedures. The shift from paper-based Carnets to a digital system will benefit businesses, enhance border efficiency, and support the digital transformation of Customs operations worldwide.

WCO Secretary General Ian Saunders applauded the launch and said: “The digital ATA Carnet marks a significant advancement in the modernization of international Customs and trade procedures. By digitizing the Carnet system, we are strengthening global trade through greater security and more efficient processing for both Customs administrations and the business community. This achievement reflects the power of international collaboration, and our close partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has been essential in driving this global digital transformation forward.”

John Denton, ICC Secretary General, said: “As the architect and custodian of the global ATA Carnet system, ICC is committed to driving ATA modernization in line with our goals to make international trade faster, more secure and more efficient for businesses everywhere. Our thanks to the WCO and Customs administrations across pioneering countries for their collaboration and early adoption of the system, enabling the global transition to a fully digital, future-ready carnet framework.”

The transition is being advanced through complementary roles. ICC has developed and is rolling out the eATA Carnet platform through the international ATA Carnet network, including chambers and National Guaranteeing Associations. The WCO, through the ATA/Istanbul Administrative Committee and the eATA Working Group, provides the institutional forum for Contracting Parties and Customs administrations to coordinate the transition, align procedures and support the acceptance and use of digital ATA Carnets at the border.

The ATA Carnet system has long served as a valuable international Customs instrument, allowing goods such as professional equipment, commercial samples and exhibition materials to be temporarily admitted across borders without paying duties and taxes at each border crossing, provided that the goods are re-exported within the required period. This simplifies procedures for businesses and reduces administrative burdens for Customs. The introduction of the digital ATA Carnet will further strengthen the trade system by improving security, increasing transparency, enhancing data quality, and enabling faster and more efficient processing for Customs administrations and traders alike. The transition from paper to digital formats will enable Customs administrations to receive the pre-arrival notices and monitor the transaction history through the system, allowing them to detect potential risks and streamline the temporary admission process for more efficient risk management.

International cooperation supports modernization
This achievement reflects the strong spirit of international cooperation that underpins the ATA Carnet system. Following 10 years of discussions first initiated at the WCO’s ATA/Istanbul Convention Administrative Committee along with a pilot phase, the launch on 1 June 2026 reflects the Customs community’s dedication to modernization and efficiencies to continuously improve and enhance global trade systems.

The WCO has closely collaborated with ICC, whose longstanding partnership and commitment have been instrumental in advancing this digital transition at the global level.

The successful implementation by this first group of Contracting Parties marks the beginning of a new chapter for the ATA Carnet system. Their efforts provide a practical example of how Customs administrations and business partners can work together to deliver modern, interoperable, and user-focused solutions that respond to the evolving needs of global trade.

Ongoing implementation of e-ATA
The WCO encourages other Contracting Parties to continue exploring and advancing the digitalization of ATA Carnet, building on the experience and lessons learned from this important initiative. Wider adoption of digital procedures will contribute to more seamless cross-border movement of goods and more sustainable trade practices.

The WCO remains fully committed to supporting its Members and partners in the implementation of innovative digital Customs solutions that promote efficiency, connectivity, and economic growth. The ATA/Istanbul Administrative Committee and the eATA Working Group continue to provide platforms for WCO Members and other stakeholders to exchange experiences, discuss operational and procedural issues, develop relevant guidance, and coordinate with ICC in support of this process.

The launch by the European Union, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and ICC is a significant achievement. The WCO is committed to modernization and the protection and shaping the future of digital Customs and trade facilitation.