During this first phase of the planned three phase Advance Rulings program, CLDP and US Customs experts traveled to Oman and met with Omani Customs officials from February 19-22 to explain the obligations under Article 5.10 (Advance Rulings).

Topics discussed surrounding the FTA Advance Rulings requirements included the issue of a written ruling prior to the importation of a good into its territory upon request, written rulings concern, tariff classification, customs valuation and the Customs Valuation Agreement, duty drawback, and qualification as an originating good under the FTA. One of the highlights of the interactive discussions was a lengthy inquiry and clarification into transshipment procedures.  Omani Customs officials valued the opportunity to ask questions of US experts and requested additional time and attention to investigations, valuation and rules of origin.  The second phase of this CLDP program will take place in the U.S. in the Spring of 2011 and provide additional opportunity for in-depth study of the Advance Rulings requirements.