II. Match the synonyms.

A	B
1) to verify	a) release
2) to comprise	b)involvement
3) clearance	c)access
4) to eliminate	d)to broadcast, to convey
5) intervention	e)to confirm
6) to validate	f)to encompass
7) to utilize	g)to eradicate
8) availability	h)to authorize, to endorse
9)to transmit	i)to exploit, to make use of
10)constraint	k) restraint, restriction

III. Explain the meaning of the following terms.

Cargo clearance processing, tax and duty drawback, collection of trade statistics, risk management profiles, free zone, warehouse operators, a “Single Window” system, a one stop service, verification of classification and valuation, to validate the data, a Red Line, a Green Line.

IV. Complete the following sentences using the required information and the vocabulary from the article above.

1. The e-Customs system has been expanded to cover imports and fully implemented at seaports and airports nationwide in 1998.

2. The major application areas of e-Customs are reporting any error for immediate online correction and transmitting the information electronically.

3. E-Customs is consistent with the standards and guidelines expressed in the WCO.

4. The e-Customs computer automation system is integrated with other systems.

5. The new system provides high standards of customs activity.

6. The “e-Customs” implemented on 1 January 2007 comprises many systems.

7. The paper transmitting process has become much easier.

8. By using e-Import, Customs brokers and importers make their jobs easier.

9. There are several documents required for import Customs clearance.

10. Under the e-Import system, there is no need for relevant parties to submit paper documents.

11. E-Import procedure is quite simple.

12. The export procedures start when an exporter/broker transmits an Export Declaration using eb-XML via the VAN or the Internet.

13. The e-export procedures are similar to e-Import procedures.

V. Using the vocabulary and the information from the articles give your continuation to the statement “e-Customs has a great impact on customs work… It will affect almost all processes and applications…”

Review key concepts

1. Give information on the following.

2. Discuss types of international payment in customs.

3. Discuss types of payment risk.

4. Discuss a letter of credit and its characteristics.

5. Discuss invoice and its types.

Discuss the following.

Using the vocabulary role play a dialogue between a customs officer with traditional views on customs activity and a customs officer using e-customs system. Discuss all the benefits and drawbacks of traditional and e-customs.

Do you agree with the following statements? Give information on them “The two key elements of the European Union’s outlook for the future in the Customs area are:

stepping up security at the external borders of the EU

enhancing the European market’s competitive position”.

Many Internet businesses have started and failed. Why do you think some virtual businesses fail?

Discuss in groups how advances in telecommunications have made worldwide

communication accessible to businesses.