To see an interactive example of this map and a complete list of current member states, go to ATA carnet Countries
ATA carnet use continues to develop within member countries and new members are joining, carnets now cover most of the trading world.
A few notes below on the most recent member and changes in operation elsewhere:
Qatar
The State of Qatar officially confirmed they will join the World ATA Carnet Council before the end of 2017, with the Qatar Chamber of Commerce responsible for administration.
This was announced at the World Chambers (ICC) conference in Sydney. The ICC Asia executive director welcomed Qatar and highlighted benefits for foreign investment, sports events, or trade exhibitions.
India
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) now offers an ATA Carnet insurance policy, aimed at new business and smaller SMEs.
Users in a number of carnet countries will be familiar with the guarantee bond system available to them. Not insurance as such, simply a method of ensuring payment of duties, or taxes, in the event they are required.
Although technically an insurance policy, the new approach in India will in practice meet the same need. Small companies who could not fund cash deposit, or bank guarantee requirements should now be able to use ATA Carnets.
As another sign of growing carnet use in and to India, the Central Board of Excise and Customs have added Jaipur port to the list of entry points where a carnet can be used.
Belarus
The Belarusian Chamber of Commerce (BCCI) is proposing to develop their ties with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Through closer liaison and ultimately by establishing an ICC committee in Belarus.
Discussions between the BCCI and ICC included the benefits of cross border cooperation, not least ATA carnet use. Belarus is a member of the carnet family and the benefits seem to have acted as a trigger for further initiatives.
ICC officials will hopefully be visiting Belarus soon, good to see the carnet system play a part in developing international relations.
A thought which applies elsewhere, the Sri Lanka International Chamber are holding anniversary celebrations and mentioned carnet use as a key development. A system intended to break down trade barriers appears to be effective.