Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC)
WCO international convention establishing principles for the simplification and harmonization of global customs procedures.
Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC)
The Revised Kyoto Convention (International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures) is the WCO's main international legal instrument for the modernization and simplification of customs procedures.
Key principles
The RKC establishes guiding principles that customs administrations must follow: maximum use of information technology, control based on risk management, coordination with other administrations (one-stop shop), partnership with the private sector, transparency and predictability of procedures.
Structure
The convention includes a main body (mandatory provisions), a General Annex (mandatory standards) and Specific Annexes (recommended standards covering arrival, import, export, transit, free zones and special regimes).
Membership
More than 130 contracting parties have joined the RKC, including the EU and most African countries.
Link with the CDU and the AfCFTA
The EU UCC and the AfCFTA customs protocols are directly inspired by the principles of the RKC. Its understanding is essential for professionals working in multi-jurisdictional contexts.