THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS COOPERATION IN REGULATING EXPORT AND IMPORT FLOWS: EVIDENCE FROM GLOBAL FRAMEWORKS AND UZBEKISTAN
Abstract
Background: International customs cooperation has become a core instrument of trade governance because customs administrations are expected to facilitate legitimate trade while controlling fiscal, sanitary, security and compliance risks. The problem is especially relevant for transition and landlocked economies, where border procedures, transit coordination and documentary requirements can materially affect export competitiveness and import costs. Objective: The article evaluates how international customs cooperation mechanisms influence export-import flows, with emphasis on the World Customs Organization (WCO), the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), mutual recognition instruments, digital customs services and Uzbekistan's ongoing customs reforms.
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