Modernizing Trade: Peru Celebrates the Successful Completion of the Second Phase of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme

• The conclusion of the second phase of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP-II) marks a significant milestone in Peru's journey towards a world-class, data-driven Customs environment.
• Building on the results achieved during the first phase of the Programme (2019-2023), Peru's Customs Administration (SUNAT) has evolved into a data-driven and technologically advanced institution.
• Through this intervention, SUNAT has strengthened national competitiveness, enhanced transparency, and contributed to sustainable economic growth.

A Legacy of Measurable Progress

The impact of this long-term partnership is reflected in significant quantitative and qualitative gains. Since the onset of the cooperation under the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme in 2019, Peru has made significant improvement as reflected by the OECD indicators:

• In terms of trade facilitation: Peru's performance has improved significantly, with a 16% increase recorded by 2025 (rising from a score of 1.39 in 2017 to 1.62 in 2025).
• In terms of operational efficiency: Through rigourous digitalization and streamlined procedures, SUNAT achieved a 66% reduction in import processing times and an impressive 90% reduction in export clearance times.

Second Phase Key Achievements

Launched on 31 March 2025, the second phase of the Programme prioritized the modernization of risk management and Customs valuation systems. By integrating cutting-edge tools, the collaboration successfully fostered a transition towards a culture of voluntary compliance.

Advanced Valuation Framework: The development of a National Valuation Improvement Plan and the strengthening of the Unified Price Verification System (SIVEP), fully aligned with the WTO Valuation Agreement.

• Data-Driven Customs: The introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning into valuation databases, enabled smarter, risk-based controls.
• Institutional Capacity Building: A total of 140 officials were trained in modern methodologies.
• Private Sector Synergy: Enhanced cooperation mechanisms between SUNAT and the private sector led to more sustainable transparent trade operations.

Way forward

While the formal SECO-WCO assistance concludes, the institutional roadmap developed under the Programme remains a vital asset. With a robust framework and a highly skilled workforce, Peru's Customs administration is well-equipped to continue its path towards an intelligent, modern, and efficient trade facilitation institution, driving prosperity for years to come.

The video is also available in Spanish.