CLADEC supports customs modernization reforms that introduce efficient, predictable and clear customs procedures bringing greater transparency and predictability into national customs systems, including automation, tracking of transactions, clear and publicized rules governing customs procedures.
Recognizing a need to modernize and further harmonize customs procedures internationally, countries set forth a revised version of the Kyoto Convention through the WCO. The purpose of the treaty is to simplify customs procedures, eliminate wasteful transaction charges, improve transparency and predictability, and facilitate trade. The WCO Council adopted the revised Kyoto Convention in June 1999 as a model for modern, efficient and effective customs procedures. The revised Kyoto Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures went into effect on February 3, 2006 with 44 Contracting Parties.

Implementing the recommendations of the revised Kyoto Convention - including greater use of automated data systems and improved communication between related national enforcement agencies - would reduce or eliminate costs introducing greater predictability, speed and lower costs, facilitating the introduction to market of products that rely on supply-chain sourcing.
Modernization of customs is an important catalyst to economic development that benefits growth and investment.  Governments have an important stake in the modernization of their customs administrations. As tariff and other trade barriers are reduced or eliminated through global and regional trade negotiations, customs modernization becomes more and more important to each country's interest in attracting foreign direct investment.

CLADEC supports automation of data systems and the use of information technology wherever possible to cut costs and improve reliability and security of customs operations. Outdated customs procedures and policies unnecessarily add to the cost of doing business internationally through customs delays, bureaucratic inefficiencies and redundancies and inefficient screening processes.