Introduction to Binding Information (BI) Mechanism
For several years, customs administrations around the world have been modernizing their procedures to meet the requirements of trade facilitation, transparency, and predictability. The Binding Information (BI) mechanism, provided for by the WTO agreements (Trade Facilitation Agreement, Article 3) and encouraged by the World Customs Organization, is fully in line with this dynamic. It constitutes an essential instrument for securing logistics chains and strengthening trust between the administration and economic operators. The Tunisian Customs has implemented this mechanism to build an effective and sustainable public-private partnership based on mutual trust.
What are Binding Information (BI)?
Binding Information (BI) are written decisions issued by the General Directorate of Customs concerning future import or export operations. These decisions are binding on both the administration and the requesting party.
Legal Framework
The BI mechanism is governed by several key legal texts:
- Decree BI: Decree No. 152 of March 13, 2024 (or 2025 according to the source).
- DGD No. 06 BI on origin: DGD No. 06 of January 13, 2025, governing the conditions and procedures for issuing mandatory information on the origin of goods.
- DGD No. 07 BI on tariffs: DGD No. 07 of January 15, 2025, setting the conditions and procedures for mandatory information on tariff classification.
Positive Effects of the BI Mechanism
The implementation of the BI mechanism is expected to produce several positive effects, including:
- Fluidity of trade: The reduction of post-clearance disputes and appeals accelerates procedures and limits logistical interruptions.
- Visibility and planning: Economic operators benefit from better visibility into their operations, facilitating the planning of their supply chains and commercial strategy.
- Trust and credibility: The mechanism strengthens the credibility of the Tunisian Customs with international partners and improves the collection of useful statistical data to guide public policies.
Guide to Using the E-Customs Platform
This guide aims to train users in best practices to optimize the use of the platform and effectively manage processes related to Binding Information.
Authentication Process
To access the platform, it is necessary to create an account:
- Click on "Join us here" on the login screen.
- Complete the form by filling in general information, company information, and legal representative information.
- Verify the information via the summary displayed, then click on "Send".
- A confirmation email will be sent. Activate your account by clicking on the verification link received.
Filing a Request (BI-CT or BI-RO)
In the dashboard, select "File a request" to submit a request for tariff classification (BI-CT) or origin rule (BI-RO). You can file the request yourself or mandate a Licensed Customs Agent (LCA) by clicking on "Mandate an LCA". A notification will then be sent to the LCA by email and via the platform. The follow-up of the request will subsequently require direct contact with the LCA.
Managing Administrative Requests
- Withdrawal request: Accessible via the three dots of the concerned BI in "My BI requests". Withdrawal is only possible within the first 10 days following the filing. After this period, the button will be grayed out.
- Re-examination request: From "My binding information", click on the three dots of the BI and fill out the form. The re-examination is carried out by the management cell and validated by the Director General.
- Renewal of requests: Renewal must be requested between 90 and 30 days before the expiration of the BI. A notification is sent to the owner of the request to initiate the renewal via the platform.
- Modification of information: The modification can be initiated by the user via the corresponding form or by Customs via the management cell.
- Cancellation of BI: Exclusively managed by Customs. The process involves several internal validations (CG, Chef CG, CT, President, DG). Once approved, the cancellation is archived and the beneficiary is informed.
