WCO security standards enhance supply chains enhanced
The implementation of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade is necessary for both government and business in terms of improving the supply-chain process, said Andrew Jackson, government-programmes executive at IBM Australia, who oversees the development of global supply-chain security.
The WCO framework is a new and consolidated platform that will enhance world trade, ensure better security against terrorism, and increase the effectiveness of customs authorities. It will improve the ability of customs officials to detect and deal with high-risk consignments and increase efficiencies in the administration of goods, thereby expediting the clearance and release of goods though global supply-chain security standards, with reduced costs and lower risks. The framework will benefit government, customs and businesses with enhanced security, revenue increases and capacity building. It will also facilitate commerce by allowing businesses to trade via single windows. Jackson said the framework aimed to provide uniformity and predictability in the global trade environment by safeguarding the end-to-end security of the trade supply chain and facilitating the passage of legitimate goods through customs control. He said Singapore and Australia had implemented the WCO framework in a pilot test by allowing officials and businesses in both countries to transfer information through secure supply chains. "The framework provides opportunities for the private sector and governments to realise the benefits of improved security," said Jackson. To support global supply-chain security, IBM sells Tamper-Resistant Embedded Controllers (TREC), a real-time tracking device. The TREC is an embedded controller device enclosed in a rugged case attached to a cargo container or container accessory. It is able to monitor and control sensors, communicate via wireless attachable, accredited sensors and actuators, and use RFID (radio frequency identification) readers, as well as having specialised chemical-detection sensors. It also provides secure storage of critical information such as cryptographic keys. IBM is also piloting an RFID system in Europe to trace packages on a 36-hour truck route between its own facilities with the use of the global positioning system. "Supply-chain security is not just a cost of doing business, it is a competitive differentiator, and firms that understand this will lead in the era of on-demand business," said Jackson.
Jirapan Boonnoon The Nation
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