CEFTA

The WTO Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures

The World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Import Licensing Proceduressets out rules for administrative procedures requiring the submission of an application or other documentation (other than that typically required for customs purposes) to a designated administrative body as a prior condition for importation. The Agreement requires WTO Members: 

  • To administer import licensing procedures in a fair and equitable manner; 
  • Not to refuse applications due to minor errors in the submitted documentation; 
  • To publish the rules and all information concerning procedures for the submission of applications, including the eligibility criteria for applicants, the administrative bodies to be approached and lists of products subject to import licensing; 
  • To ensure that the application procedures and renewal procedures are simple; and  
  • To grant applicants a reasonable period to submit applications.