Information on import licensing from most countries available on WTO website

The World Trade Organization (WTO) launched a new database giving access to import licensing procedures in most member countries.

As one of the most frequently used trade policy instruments applied by almost all governments, the use of import licensing has extended from enforcing quantitative restrictions and collecting trade statistics to safeguarding product quality, the environment, consumer welfare, public health and national security.

The new database is a comprehensive information centre containing all members’ legislation, procedures and product information relating to import licensing.

The platform is meant to allow member countries and the business community to find import licensing information more efficiently and to make better use of the information contained in members’ notifications to the WTO.

For additional information: WTO launches new import licensing platform