- •English for customs officers
- •Учебное пособие
- •Text 2.1. Dual-channel system
- •Exercises
- •Note!!!
- •Helpful hints
- •For passengers!
- •Items forbidden to be transported in hand luggage:
- •Exercises
- •I. Look through text 2.2 again and answer the following questions:
- •Follow-up activities
- •Cargo-processing
- •It drains your purse, it burns your clothes
- •Text 3.1. At the customs house
- •Text 3.2. At the airport
- •Tips for travelers
- •Text 4.1. Export incentives
- •5. To store
- •4. To remain
- •Exercises
- •Text 4.3. Customs warehouses
- •Text 4.4. Free zones
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions
- •Follow-up activities
- •Bonded warehouse
- •Visible Invisible
- •Imports
- •Text 5.1. A brief history of the harmonized system
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •III. What are the synonyms from the text of the following words? a
- •Text 5.2. Keeping the harmonized system alive
- •Text. Valuation of goods
- •Customs appraisement and the collection of import duties
- •A universal system
- •I. Fill in the table «False Friends». Consult the dictionary if necessary.
- •Text 7.1. International trade
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •Text 7.2. Tariff and non-tariff trade policy instruments
- •Tariff trade policy instruments
- •Follow-up activities
- •Direct method
- •Inderect method
- •Text 8.1. The challenges faced by customs administrations today
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •Customs Service of the Republic of Belarus
- •Text 8.2. The role of customs
- •In trade facilitation
- •Exercises
- •I. Find the words/phrases in the text which follow the verbs below.
- •Text 8.3. Hm customs & excise
- •Follow-up activities
- •Text 2.2. Effective passenger and baggage control
- •Customs
- •In my opinion ...
- •I'm afraid you are not quite right ...
- •I think so too ...
- •I. Complete the following proverbs and translate them into Russian:
- •False friends
- •Exercises
- •Text 9.2. Your job
- •Exercises
- •For passengers!!!!!!
- •For passengers!!!!!!
- •Points to remember prior to baggage examination
- •If you were unemployed would you take a job in:
- •Text 9.3. What are your caree motivators?
- •Career motivator worksheet
- •Text 9.4. Working for customs
- •Job profiles of a Customs officer
- •Hm Revenue & Customs
- •U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- •Exercises
- •Follow-up activities
- •4. Most Customs need autocrats to keep people on their toes.
- •Text 10.1. Ethics and code of conduct
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •Follow-up activities
- •Exercises
- •Text 11.2. The role of information technologies
- •In the implementation of a modern customs policy
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •Text 12.1. Customs control
- •Exercises
- •I. Find the words/phrases in the text which follow the verbs below.
- •Text 12.2. Control methods
- •Identification of goods
- •Text 12.3. The risk management process
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •Text 13.1. How to communicate with customs
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •Text 14.2. Money laundering
- •Text 15.1. The global drug problem
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •Text 15.2. Drug control: international policy and approaches
- •Colombian cocaine
- •European Community legislation
- •Of wales
- •Text 16.1. Wco
- •Exercises
- •I. Find the words/phrases in the text which follow the verbs below.
- •Text 16.2. The wco's enforcement strategy
- •Exercises
- •I. Find the words/phrases in the text which follow the verbs below.
- •I. Unjumble the letters in brackets to fill in the gaps in the sentences.
- •Exercises
- •I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
- •Text 17.2. Kyoto convention revised
- •Exercises
- •Follow-up activities
- •Resolution of the customs co-operation council on the introduction of pre-entry classification information programmes
- •Council concerning the amendment of the harmonized commodity description and coding system
- •Threatened species
- •Supply chain management
- •Logistics
- •The complexity of logistics
- •Exercises
- •Informed compliance
- •Text 14.1. Customs offences
- •Exercises
get to work at about 8.45 a.m. I'm at / in work until 6 p.m.
Her job involves checking / to check the credit history of companies.
VI. Write a tick (✓) if the sentence is grammatically correct.
a. I'm responsible for this.
b. I'm the responsible for this.
c. I'm the person responsible for this.
d. This is my responsible.
e. This is my responsibility.
VII. Go round the class and interview three people. Ask them why they work (or study). Fill in the following table:
Why do you work?
-
you
student 1
student 2
student 3
for work's sake
for the fun of it
to earn a living
to support a family
out of keen interest
to gain authority
for self-fulfilment
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If you were unemployed would you take a job in:
-
a factory
a hospital
an airport
a casino
computer centre
scientific research centre
a bank
library
café
a bakery
shop
school
What jobs would you hate to do and why?
(use: it would drive me mad, it would be so boring, it would be too much responsibility for me, it would be like a form of torture, it would be too repetitive, etc.)
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
to gain knowledge получить знания
work/life balance баланс между работой и личной жизнью
core ключевой, основополагающий, стержневой
Text 9.3. What are your caree motivators?
Motivation is defined as the process that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviors. Motivation is what causes us to act, whether it is getting a glass of water to reduce thirst or reading a book to gain knowledge.
It involves the biological, emotional, social, and cognitive forces that activate behavior. In everyday usage, the term motivation is frequently used to describe why a person does something.
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Your career motivators are what energize and motivate you when you think about what you want to accomplish or work towards in your career. They are concrete descriptions of how you want to engage in your work. They are not job titles and they are not general words or phrases like «fulfillment, financial security, happiness, work/life balance» etc. Understanding what motivates you can help you find a career direction.
There are three types of career motivators:
Core career motivators: Core career motivators are what you want to spend your time doing. These include competencies (skills, knowledge and attributes) that you want to develop, specific things you want to create, or passions and causes that you want to pursue.
Work environment motivators: Work environment motivators are things that are important for you in your workplace. These include aspects of the physical environment, the work culture, the way work is structured (e.g. hours, schedule, etc.), and how you like to work with others (e.g. as a leader, support person, expert advisor, etc.).
Lifestyle motivators: Lifestyle motivators are what your career allows you to do in other areas of your life. This could include money, time, travel, relationships, and other parts that make up your work/life balance.
All three types are important, but your core motivators will be most helpful in pointing in a career direction. It can take time to uncover your own motivators, and it can be tricky to separate what you really want from what you feel you «should» want. It's a good idea to revisit them from time to time.
Sample motivators
I want to manage information about people (not technical or financial) in a social service or educational setting (core motivator);
I want to design and manage service-oriented systems, processes and procedures to make systems run more efficiently and help people (core motivator);
I want to be recognized for making others' lives easier (core motivator);
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I like being in a structured work environment where I have to respond to things that happen unexpectedly (work environment motivator);
I want to balance the time and energy I use while earning my living with the time and energy I devote to my passion for competitive marathon running (lifestyle motivator).
EXERCISES
I. Complete the following Career Motivator Worksheet.
Career motivator worksheet
Rank the following interests in order of their importance to you.
• Working with things, numbers and objects ________
• Contact with people ________
• Working with machines ________
• Working with animals or plants ________
• Working to improve social conditions ________
• Detailed, organized, routine work ________
• Studying people or communicating ideas ________
• Scientific or technical work ________
• Directing or organizing ________
• Abstract and creative work ________
• Working on or producing things ________
Now use your rankings to answer these questions:
What interests and activities energize you?
What are the skills that you really enjoy using?
What kinds of activities engage you so completely that you get wrapped up in them and lose track of time?
What kinds of subject or knowledge areas are you drawn to?
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What are your passions or causes?
What causes do you get excited about?
Where is the «juice» or «spark» when you think about your career?
What would you do if you knew (and were 100% guaranteed) that you would not fail?
If you were independently wealthy, had done everything you wanted to do in terms of travel/leisure and had the total support, understanding and acceptance of your family and friends, what would you choose to do with your time?
What type of work environment do you want?
Rank the following work environments in order of their importance to you.
-
• Setting your own schedule
________
• Influencing people's opinions, attitudes or actions
________
• Variety with many changing duties
________
• Working under stressful situations
________
• Making decisions based on personal judgment
________
• Knowing exactly what is expected of me
________
• Taking responsibility- being in control
________
• Work requiring precision
________
• Freely expressing ideas and emotions
________
• Making decisions based on facts
________
• Working closely with people
________
• Working alone
________
Now use your rankings to answer these questions:
How do you see yourself working with others (e.g. leader, support person, expert advisor, etc.)?
What type of people would you work well with, and how would you work with them?
What places and environments make you feel engaged and energized?
What type of organization would you like to be part of?
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What type of lifestyle do you want?
What does your career need to provide you with in terms of money and time commitment so that it will fit with and support the other important aspects of your life?
What kind of income do you have to have in order to support the kind of life that you want to build?
How much time are you willing to devote to your career so that it balances with the rest of your life?
Brainstorm a list of possible career options that includes different type of work and educational opportunities. Review your list and think about why you have chosen your options. Do they connect with the motivators you included on the Career Motivator Worksheet? Add any new insights to the worksheet.
Brainstorm a list of «de-motivators» that describe what you don't want in your career. Review your list and think about the opposite of each demotivator. Do these opposites connect with the motivators you included on the worksheet?
IV. Review all the statements on your worksheet and identify patterns and themes. Write a set of four to six statements that summarize your key career motivators, and make sure that at least three or four of your statements describe your core motivators.
use: I feel highly motivated when … (give reasons)
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
to enforce the laws and следить за соблюдением законов
regulations и нормативных актов
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transportation hubs транспортные узлы
a comprehensive training всесторонняя подготовка, комп-
лексное обучение
to meet the civil service nationality requirement
удовлетворять требование о граж-данстве для государственной службы
undercover work
surveillance [sɜːˈveɪləns] work to undergo a polygraph exam background investigation
работа под прикрытием
наблюдение, слежка
пройти экзамен на полиграфе
проверка анкетных данных
Text 9.4. Working for customs
The Customs officer enforces the laws and regulations of his respective country regarding incoming goods, personal effects and animals, as well as imports and exports. Customs officers can be located on the physical border between countries or in transportation hubs like ports, airports and railroad stations.
Professional Customs officers should be properly educated. As a rule a comprehensive training involves a thorough knowledge of legislation relevant to Customs work, knowledge of border protection methods, search and investigation techniques, understanding of Customs procedures and policies.
Job profiles of a Customs officer
You are going to read the Job profiles of a Customs officer provided by The National Careers Service1 in the UK and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection2.
Hm Revenue & Customs
Customs officers prevent banned items from entering or leaving the country, and collect a range of taxes and duties.
https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk
http://www.cbp.gov
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Work activities
Customs officers, also known as detection officers, are employed by HM Revenue & Customs and work in UK ports and airports collecting Customs duties and preventing smuggling and illegal trade.
Entry requirements
You would normally join as an adminis-trative assistant or assistant officer and earn promotion to customs officer or detection officer. Recruitment directly to
officer grade sometimes takes place.
To join at officer grade you will probably need five GCSEs (A-C) including English and maths, plus two A levels or equivalent qualifications. You will normally need two GCSEs (A-C) to join HMRC as an administrative assistant, and five GCSEs (A- C) including maths and English for assistant officer jobs.
If you do not have these qualifications, you could take a test to prove your skills and abilities in areas like teamwork and communication. You must also meet the civil service nationality requirement. All jobs are open to British nationals and many are also open to Commonwealth citizens or European Union nationals.
Typical responsibilities:
identifying people and questioning people who have been found with illegal items or goods over the allowance;
searching baggage and individuals for smuggled items;
making arrests of people suspected of smuggling;
seizing smuggled goods;
checking documentation relating to imported goods;
undertaking physical examinations of freight;
detecting and prosecuting drug smugglers;
collecting and supplying trade statistics;
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writing reports and witness statements;
checking Customs documents;
fighting the increasing problem of alcohol and tobacco smuggling;
helping to combat the worldwide illegal trade in endangered species of animals and birds;
dealing with revenue due on imported goods;
taking on specialist roles such as dog handling or undercover and surveillance work.
When necessary a Customs officer goes to court as a witness and would work closely with other agencies, like the police and the Home Office.
Working hours and conditions
As a full- time customs officer you would work 36 hours a week over five days. In a border protection role you would work shifts to cover 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Job sharing or part-time work may be available.
Skills, abilities, interests and qualities
To become a Customs officer you will need to have:
good judgement;
good listening and questioning skills;
a tactful but firm manner;
honesty and fairness in applying rules;
ability to collate and analyse often complex information;
ability to disseminate detailed information in a clear and concise manner;
confident decision-making ability;
ability to work alone and also as part of a team;
ability to present information in a clear and logical way;
ability to work accurately, pay close attention to detail and notice inconsistencies;
self-motivation;
tactful and polite with excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
good numeracy skills, with the ability to interpret accounts and make calculations.
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U.S. Customs and Border Protection
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is an agency organized under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The CBP is responsible for safeguarding the border and inspecting individuals and cargo moving in and out of the country. Several different career positions exist within the agency. Border
Patrol Agents are tasked with monitoring large border areas for illegal activity. Air and Marine Interdiction Agents stop illegal activity using aircraft and boats. Customs and Border Patrol Officers are perhaps the most visible personnel within CBP. These officers work at major air and seaports to screen passengers and luggage.
CBP is responsible for:
apprehending individualsattempting to enter the United States illegally;
stemming the flow of illegaldrugs and other contraband;
protecting agricultural andeconomic interests from harmful pests and diseases;
protecting American businesses from theft of their intellectual property;
regulating and facilitating international trade by collecting importduties, and enforcing U.S. trade laws.
Nearly 2,500 employees in CBP revenue positions collect over $30 billion annually in entry duties and taxes through the enforcement of trade and tariff laws. These collections provide the second largest revenue for the U.S. Government. In addition, they fulfill the agency's
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trade mission by appraising and classifying imported merchandise. These employees serve in positions such as Import Specialist, auditor, international trade specialist and analyst.
Unprecedented growth in world trade, new trade agreements, and increased trade complexity make the trade compliance process activities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection more important than ever. We interact with both importers and exporters and are responsible for decisions regarding a staggering variety of merchandise, manufactured goods, and commodities.
Being an Import Specialist, you will be responsible for classifying and appraising a portion of the billions of dollars' worth of commercially imported merchandise that enters the U.S. every year. You will determine which products may legally enter the country by enforcing laws protecting public health and safety, intellectual property rights, fair trade practices and the like. You may also play a key role in criminal enforcement team investigations of smuggling, commercial fraud, and counterfeiting.
A favorably completed background investigation is required for your placement in a position with Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
A background investigation is conducted to ensure that the candidate is suitable for employment, i.e. reliable, trustworthy, of good conduct and character, and loyal to the United States.
Candidates for law enforcement officer positions at Customs and Border Protection are required to undergo a polygraph exam as part of the background investigation. The results of the polygraph will be used to determine the candidate's suitability for placement in the law enforcement officer position.
Along with having a degree in criminal justice, a candidate aiming to work with U.S. Department of Home Security at a post of Customs officer should also be physically fit and free of any court cases pending in his name. The foremost requirement is that he should be a citizen of the country.
Seven weeks of specialized training will enable you to develop an expert knowledge of import and export trends, commodities, and industries, as well as complex international trade agreements. This position will call on your intellect, discipline, organizational abilities, and analytical skills.
In addition to great Federal benefits, you will have the satisfaction of being an expert in a top international trade career.
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Exercises
I. Read the list of professional/personal qualities of a Customs officer and put them into two columns.
confident, ambitious, accountable, stubborn, reliable, self-disciplined, safety-conscious, disorganized, careful, tactful, honest and fair, adaptable, practical, lazy, arrogant, independent, rude, active, businesslike, knowledgeable, emotional, sensible, clever, malicious, biased, reasonable, kind, aggressive, superficial, witty, intuitive, generous, cunning.
-
Positive qualities
Negative qualities
II. Fill in the following table. |
|
|
|
Duties and responsibilities of a |
Traits, skills, and personal |
Customs officer |
characteristics required |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Make a profile of a Customs officer working for the Belarusian Customs Service.
Follow-up activities
I. Answer these questions from the perspective of a graduate student interested in a career in Customs.
What does it mean to be a competent Customs officer?
What is meant by «professional qualifications» for a job?
What working position is the best for you?
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Do you want to be an executive?
What qualities do you need to be an executive?
What do you like more: giving orders or receiving orders?
Are you accustomed to red-tape jobs?
In what field do you need training most of all?
1. valuation 7. surveillance techniques
3. procedures 8. investigation techniques
4. enforcement 9. automated data processing
5. legislation 10. commercial fraud
6. origin 11. traffic
air traffic
rail traffic
road traffic
traffic via waterways
container traffic
What career opportunities are there for someone who has studied Customs matters?
Do all Customs officers do the same kind of work?
Why are career prospects in Customs Service said to be very good?
Agree or disagree with the following statements. Give your reasons. Discuss your answers with your partner. Supply some additional information.
The State Customs Committee should certify the inspectors annually.
All Customs officers should know risk-based control procedures.
Survival is not so much a matter of discipline and awareness as of tactics and technique.
In class, role-plays must be designed around realistic and practical situations that officers may encounter during their routine duties.
Offering Customs officers a high quality, up-to-date instruction often means going a step further in their professional competence.
Customs officers shouldn't be taught report writing.
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Teaching is always a two-way process.
«Chalk and Talk»1 session is the only method for a highly skilled, dedicated Customs officer who wants to be trained to a peak of professionalism.
«Education is an investment that repays itself with a profit» (A. Smith).
Education produces substantial value for the money.
«Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their integrity» (G. Patton2).
Customs officers in our country are learning not only state-of-the-art drug detection techniques and military-style combat-training but also public relations, folk dancing, icon-painting, graphology and the complex task of creating a human face for Customs.
Now any passenger who considers himself unfairly treated by Customs can use a telephone hotline in Minsk and complain to the Committee's officials. They promise no delays in dealing with complaints.
All Customs officers at Minsk-2 are capable of telling a souvenir from a work of art.
DO IT FOR FUN
I. TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS TEST
One of the greatest factors contributing to stress is our inability to manage time. Conversely, good time management skills allow us to organize our lives and be more productive, both at work and at home. The following quiz will help identify trouble spots and guide us toward the goal of becoming successful time managers. A scoring key at the end will indicate how far you need to go. Assign a numerical number to the following questions with l=always; 2=usually; 3=sometimes; 4=never.
The formal, traditional teaching method that relies on oral instruction and use of the blackboard.
George Patton (1885–1945) – US Army officer who was an outstanding practitioner of mobile tank warfare in the European and Mediterranean theatre during World War II.
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___ I find that I have enough time for myself to do the things I enjoy doing.
___ I'm aware of deadlines and schedule my work to meet them in time.
___ I write down specific objectives in order to work toward goals.
___ I use a calendar to write down appointments, deadlines, and things to do.
___ I feel in control of time while at work and at home.
___ I plan and schedule my time on a weekly and/or monthly basis.
___ I make a daily to-do list and refer to it several times per day.
___ I set priorities in order of importance and then schedule time around them.
___ I'm able to find time when I need it in case something important comes up.
___ I'm able to say no when I'm pressed for time.
___ I try to delegate responsibility to others in order to make more time for myself.
___ I organize my desk and work area to prevent clutter and confusion.
___ I find it easy to eliminate or reschedule low priority items.
___ I try to do things in a way that cuts down on duplicated effort.
___ I find that doing everything myself is very inefficient.
___ I try to shift priorities as soon as they change.
___ I find it easy to identify sources of time problems.
___ I find it easy to eliminate or reshuffle unnecessary paperwork.
___ My meetings and activities are well organized and efficient.
___ I know what I'm capable of and try not to overextend myself.
___ I find it easy to keep up with changes that affect my schedule or workload.
___ I try to schedule the most difficult work during my most productive times.
I know what my responsibilities and duties are at all times.
I try to get only the pertinent information before making a final decision.
I finish one job or task before going on to the next.
Scoring key: 25–40 = Excellent time manager 41–55 = Good time manager 56–100 = Poor time manager
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If you scored above 55, you have lots of work to do in order to become an effective time manager and avoid the stress that leads to productivity problems, stress, burnout, and disease.
The most common areas to look for are:
Not prioritizing tasks
Not scheduling daily, weekly, or monthly activities
Not delegating responsibility
Not being able to say no
Not writing down objectives in order to meet deadlines
Not using a calendar or notebook to organize commitments
Not shifting priorities to make room for more urgent matters or tasks
Not reducing clutter and/or unnecessary paperwork
Not being able to give up total control
Not being able to avoid procrastination
II. Being a manager is a challenging position that requires several skills and aptitudes.
|
WHAT KIND OF MANAGER ARE YOU – Test Yourself |
|
1. |
Customs officers should leave their personal problems at home. |
|
|
Yes |
No |
2. |
Life and work are two separate worlds. |
|
|
Yes |
No |
Customs officers come to work to earn a living. Values are for family and religion, not the workplace.
Yes No
4. Most Customs need autocrats to keep people on their toes.
Yes No
5. Customs isn't the place for a kinder, more caring work environment.
Yes No
Money is the main motivator. It doesn't matter how Customs officers are treated.
Yes No
Traders don't care how we treat them. They just value what we can do for them.
Yes No
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Customs officers shouldn't bother themselves with beliefs, values and ethics.
Yes No
The best way to ensure quality is by documentation and statistical controls.
Yes No
If you show that you can explode with anger, staff will respect you more.
Yes No 11. Ruthlessness is still the best way to the top.
Yes No
If you get involved with staff problems, the bottom line will suffer.
Yes No
The business of Customs is meeting business objectives. Everything else is a distraction.
Yes No
Empowerment? That's a laugh. It's everyone for him/herself these days.
Yes No
YOUR SCORE
14 Yes answers: You're back in the 19th century!
6–13 Yes answers: Ever thought of taking a Management course?
1–5 Yes answers: You're on the way to a caring leader.
0 Yes answers: Congratulations! You're a leader!
Job functions describe your roles, duties and responsibilities in your workplace. Translate the following «Action Verb List» into Russian. Tick the verbs that best describe your future job functions.
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-
ACTION VERB LIST
abstract
evaluate
prescribe
adjust
execute
present
administer
expand
program
advise
explain
propose
analyze
found
prove
apply
generate
provide
approve
grade
read
assemble
identify
reason
assist
illustrate
recognize
authorize
implement
recommend
change
index
reduce
check
improve
reinforce
clean
increase
reorganize
collaborate
influence
remove
complete
initiate
repair
compute
inspect
replace
conduct
instruct
research
construct
interpret
request
control
introduce
review
convert
isolate
revise
coordinate
issue
safeguard
correct
investigate
schedule
create
launch
score
delegate
lead
select
demonstrate
lecture
set up
determine
locate
solve
design
maintain
streamline
destroy
manage
supervise
develop
manipulate
support
diagnose
motivate
survey
direct
obtain
tabulate
draw
operate
teach
eliminate
organize
test
enforce
panel
transform
engrave
participate
troubleshoot
establish
perform
use
estimate
plan
verify
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IV. Exercise your brains by solving these puzzles.
1.
2.
3.
213
4.
5.
6.
214
7.
8.
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UNIT 10. CODE OF CONDUCT
Study the following words and word combinations from the text. public service (syn. (civil
service, state service) государственная служба
integrity целостность, честность, прямота,
принципиальность
to be issued with быть обеспеченым чем-либо
disciplinary measures д сц пл нарные меры
a dismissal увольнен е
to adhere to пидеживаться
a framework for appropriate
conduct снова для надлежащего поведения
prosecution судебное преследование
to commit offences1 совершать преступления
accountability подотчетность, ответственность
impartial беспристрастный
to be above reproach быть безупречным
Text 10.1. Ethics and code of conduct
Public service is a public trust. Therefore, Customs employees have a responsibility to their Government and its citizens to place loyalty to the Government, laws and ethical principals above private gain.
Offence – an illegal action or a crime; the act of upsetting or insulting smb.
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Ethics deals with the fundamental issues of practical decision-making, and its major concerns include the nature of ultimate value and the standards by which human actions can be judged right or wrong. Ethics is a set of principles which determines standards of personal and professional behaviour. It is not just obeying the law, or sticking to rules and regulations; ethics goes beyond the law to include the way of making and justifying decisions when it is not completely clear what is the right or wrong thing to do.
While there is no set of rules capable of providing answers to all ethical questions which arise, every organization should have a set of rules and guidelines which are the boundaries within which every employee must operate every day. In other words, Code of conduct. Customs Service is not an exception. A Code of Conduct may serve as a guide to solving issues for those working in Customs, and those who have dealings with officers of Customs.
This point was recognized by the World Customs Organization (WCO) in the WCO Revised Arusha Declaration on Integrity in Customs which includes a specific recommendation on the issue of Codes of Conduct. The Arusha Declaration1 states that: «Customs employees should be issued with a Code of Conduct, the implications of which should be fully explained to them. There should be effective disciplinary measures, which should include the possibility of dismissal».
The Purpose of Code of Ethics and Conduct is to describe the minimum standards of behaviour required of all Customs employees. These standards of behaviour shall be demonstrated by all Customs employees and are to serve as a guide when making decisions and taking actions. To ensure public confidence in the integrity of Customs, all Customs employees shall respect and adhere to their particular Code of Ethics and Conduct, which generally comprises the following key elements:
Personal Responsibility.
Compliance with the Law.
Relations with the Public.
The Arusha Declaration was initially adopted in 1993 in Arusha, Tanzania. On the basis of the ten year experiences it has been revised in 2003. The Revised Arusha Declaration is the focal tool and central feature of a global and effective approach to preventing corruption and increasing the level of integrity in Customs.
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Limitations on the Acceptance of Gifts, Rewards, Hospitality and Discounts.
Avoiding Conflicts of Interest.
Limitations on Political Activities.
Conduct in Money Matters.
Confidentiality and Use of Official Information.
Use of Official Property and Services.
Private Purchases of Government Property by Employees
Work Environment.
In many countries a Code of Conduct provides the framework for appropriate conduct in a variety of contexts and establishes standards of behaviour expected of Customs officers. «The Code of Ethics and Conduct Booklet» developed by the Australian Customs Service emphasizes the following issues:
«...Personal Behaviour. Customs officers are to
perform official duties with skills, care, diligence and impartiality, using authority in a fair and unbiased way;
observe acts, regulations, instructions and lawful directions;
provide the public with service in a professional manner;
not take improper advantage of any official information acquired in the course of official duties...»
«Criminal offences. All officers of Customs must comply with the law. Breaches of criminal law will lead to prosecution and / or disciplinary action … Offences relating to legislation which Customs administers are regarded most gravely when committed by Customs officers. Customs officers who commit offences involving prohibited drugs, fraud, accepting bribes, or illegal importation or exportation of goods will be subject to disciplinary action, in addition to any penalty applied as a result of criminal proceedings...»
«Gifts or Benefits. The offering of gifts and / or benefits may be seen as an attempt to influence a decision which an officer is required to take...»
The Customs Service has no right to public recognition or trust if its staff breaks the law habitually. Maintaining an environment that encourages ethical behaviour among all Customs staff must be a high priority for each officer. Customs authorities need to promote a culture which includes such values as honesty, fairness, accountability, professionalism and integrity.
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The CCC's Arusha Declaration defines integrity as a science concerning discipline, professional ethics, courtesy, personal integrity and strictness.
The public is entitled to have complete confidence, trust and respect in the integrity of its Customs administrations and to expect all Customs employees to be honest, impartial and professional in the manner in which they employ their skills, knowledge, experience and official authorities. To maintain public confidence, it is important that Customs employees show the highest standards of integrity in their dealings with members of the public, the business community and other Government officials, and maintain the same standards in their personal lives. It is essential that Customs demonstrate high ethical standards to project an image of Customs that is above reproach.
EXERCISES
I. Are the following words positive (+) or negative (-)?
to accomplish |
illicit |
breaches |
to obstruct |
courteous |
diligence |
to hinder |
unbiased |
impartiality |
to obey |
corrupt |
bribes |
to comply with |
fair |
accountability |
to justify |
improper |
reproach |
Find the words/phrases in the box which collocate with the nouns in bold.
deliver, win, adopt, settle, face, betray, generate, pay, solve, obey, tackle, impose, enforce, shake, produce, inspire, rescind, violate, collect, to be subject to
1. to deliver revenue |
2. ________law |
3. ________issue |
|
|||
|
|
|
__________ |
__________ |
|
|
__________ |
|
|
||||
__________ |
__________ |
__________ |
|
|||
__________ |
__________ |
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|
|||
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4. _________confidence 5. __________penalty
___________ ____________
___________ ____________
___________ ____________
III. Fill in the following table and make sentences.
Reference words: revenue, behavior, courteous, fraud, to judge, to obey, regulations, to justify, trafficking, framework, to observe, breaches, offences, penalty, a set of principles, to comply with, prohibited drugs, disciplinary action, punishment.
Customs |
Law |
A Code of Conduct |
responsibilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
IV. Complete the following questions adding the tags.
Corruption diminishes the ability of the Customs Service to accomplish its mission, ______________?
Customs must demonstrate high ethical standards, __________?
Ethics is a set of principles, __________?
Ethics is not just obeying the law, __________?
There is no set of rules capable of providing answers to all ethical questions, __________?
Customs authorities need to promote a culture which includes such values as honesty, fairness, accountability, professionalism, and integrity, __________?
A corrupt Customs Service will not deliver the revenue that is properly due to the state, __________?
The Australian Customs Service developed The Code of Ethics,
__________?
Breaches of criminal law will lead to prosecution or disciplinary action, __________?
The CCC's Arusha Declaration defines integrity as a science concerning professional ethics, __________?
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V. Match left to the right to make up sentences.
1. |
Corruption ... |
a. who commit offences involving prohibited |
|
|
drugs, fraud, accepting bribes, or illegal |
|
|
importation or exportation of goods will be |
|
|
subject to disciplinary action. |
2. |
Ethics ... |
b. has the right to expect that the behaviour |
|
|
of Customs staff will be in line with their |
|
|
expectations. |
Customs officers ... c. are regarded most gravely when committed by Customs officers.
4. |
The Arusha |
d. can destroy the efficient functioning of |
Declaration ... |
any society. |
|
5. |
The community ... |
e. will not be efficient in the fight against |
|
|
illicit trafficking. |
A code of conduct ... f. defines integrity as a science concerning discipline, professional ethics, courtesy, personal integrity and strictness.
7. |
Offences ... |
g. is a set of principles which determines |
|
|
standards of personal and professional |
|
|
behaviour. |
8. |
A corrupt Customs |
h. provides the framework for appropriate |
Service ... |
conduct in a variety of contexts and |
|
|
|
establishes standards of behaviour expected |
|
|
of Customs officers. |
VI. Translate the following questions.
К чему может привести коррупция в таможне?
Почему так важно, чтобы таможенники имели высокий уро-вень сознания?
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Что представляет собой учение о нравственности, морали?
Какую роль выполняет кодекс поведения?
Какие правила были разработаны австралийской таможней?
К чему приводят нарушения уголовного права?
Какие нарушения, допущенные таможенниками, считаются наиболее серьезными?
Что может рассматриваться как попытка повлиять на решение таможенника?
В каком случае таможня имеет право на общественное при-знание?
Какой кодекс поведения должны выработать таможенные власти для создания безупречного имиджа?
VII. Speculate about the Code of Conduct in the Belarusian Customs Service.
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
deference [ˈdefərəns] уважение, почтение
to perturb [pə´tə:b] волновать, беспокоить
to contrive [kənˈtraɪv] придумывать, изобретать
to hand down передавать по наследству
immutable неизменный, непреложный, постоян-
ный
flatly решительнo, наотрез
to sling (разг.) швырнуть
touchy-feely открыто проявляющий свои эмоции,
раскрепощённый
blunt грубоватый, прямой, резкий
uncouth [ʌnˈkuːθ] неотесанный, грубый
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TEXT 10.2. ETIQUETTE. INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS ETIQUETTE
To have respect for ourselves guides our morals; and to have a deference for others governs our manners.
Lawrence Sterne,
Irish novelist & satirist (1713–1768)
Etiquette, or good manners, is an important part of our day to day lives. Whether we realize it or not we are always subconsciously adhering to rules of etiquette. These are unwritten rules that reflect a culture's values, for example giving up your seat to a lady or elderly person, or simply saying «please» or «thank you».
Etiquette accomplishes many tasks. However, the one noteworthy function that etiquette does perform is that it shows respect and deference to another. By doing so it maintains good interpersonal relationships.
We all know how we or others feel when a lack of etiquette is shown. If someone jumps the queue, does not thank you for holding the door open for them or forgets to shake your hand, we naturally feel disrespected and perturbed.
Etiquette is a system of rules and conventions that regulates social and professional behaviour. Regardless of its level of material culture, any highly stratified society will possess an etiquette in which every person knows the behaviour expected from him toward others and from others toward himself.
The real point to be made is that rules of etiquette have not been contrived in order to make those who know them seem important. Actually the rules are nothing but the findings of long experience handed down for reasons of practical use. Good taste is helpful! What is said and done should be the most suitable, comfortable and useful for the occasion, place and time.
In the same way the code of ethics is an immutable law of etiquette. Good taste or bad is revealed in everything we are, do, or have. Our
speech manners, dress, our household goods – and even our friends – are evidence of the quality of our taste. Rules of etiquette are sign-posts by which we are guided to the goal of good taste.
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Modern business is global and demands people travel to foreign countries and mix with foreign clients, colleagues or customers. All cultures have their own etiquette rules, many of them unwritten. When two or more different cultures mix, it is easy for small etiquette mistakes to be made that could have negative consequences. Just as you may have felt annoyed when a foreign businessman did not shake your hands upon greeting you, imagine how your Chinese client must have felt when you wrote on his business card or your Indian colleague reacted when you flatly rejected an offer of a meal. Sometimes, not understanding the etiquette of another culture means you show a lack of manners and as Lawrence Sterne said, a lack of deference. This can and does lead to soured relationships, lost deals and in the end poor business results. International business etiquette manifests in many shapes and sizes. Throughout the world people from different cultures have varying etiquette rules around areas such as personal space, communication, gift giving, food, business meetings and much more. For those who want to make a good impression understanding of international business etiquette is crucial. By way of introducing some of the key areas within international business etiquette we shall look at the following common areas:
Business Card Etiquette
When you exchange business cards (even if you exchange them) do you simply pass it over and forget about it? In many countries the business card has certain etiquette rules. For example in the Arab world you would never give or receive a business card with your left hand. In China and Japan you should try and use both hands to give and receive. In addition it is always good etiquette to examine the card and make a positive comment on it. Whereas in the UK it may be OK to sling the business card into a pocket, in many countries you should always treat it with much more respect such as storing it in a business card holder.
The Etiquette of Personal Space
How close do you stand to people? Is it impolite to touch somebody? What about gender differences? In the Middle East you may get very touchy -feely with the men, yet one should never touch a woman. A slap on the back may be OK in Mexico but in China it is a serious no-no. Touch someone on the head in Thailand or Indonesia and you would have caused great insult. Without an appreciation of international business etiquette, these things would never be known.
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The Etiquette of Gift Giving
Many countries such as China and Japan have many etiquette rules surrounding the exchange of business gifts. International business etiquette allows you an insight into what to buy, how to give a gift, how to receive, whether to open in front of the giver and what gifts not to buy. Great examples of gifts to avoid are anything alcoholic in Muslim countries, anything with four of anything in Japan and clocks in China.
The Etiquette of Communication
Some cultures like to talk loudly (US and Germany), some softly (India and China); some speak directly (Holland and Denmark) others indirectly (UK and Japan); some tolerate interrupting others while speaking (Brazil) others not (Canada); some are very blunt (Greece) and some very flowery (Middle East).
The knowledge of etiquette is essential to one's decent behaviour, just as clothing is essential to one's decent appearance. Etiquette helps maintain good relations with people. Those that lack etiquette are branded as uncouth and rude.
International business etiquette is a key skill for those who want to be successful when working on the international stage. Through a great appreciation and understanding of others' cultures you build stronger and longer lasting business relationships.
Exercises
I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
1. to reflect a. to give and receive in return (something of
the same type or equal value)
2. to adhere to b. being related to, or concerning relations
between people
3. to accomplish c. to meet, find, or discover, especially by
chance
4. to maintain d. to be, or enjoying being, in the company
of others
5. interpersonal e. stick firmly
6. to mix with f. to throw, especially roughly or with effort
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7. a lack of |
g. to succeed in doing; finish successfully; |
|
achieve |
8. to reject |
h. to hurt the feelings of; upset |
9. to exchange |
i. to continue to have as before |
10. to sling |
j. to express, to make clear; show |
11. to offend |
k. to refuse to accept, consider, or use |
12. to come across |
l. the state of not having (enough of) |
|
something |
II. Find the words/phrases in the text which follow the verbs below.
to exchange to mix with
to reject to show
to have to make
to maintain to work
to cause
III. What are the synonyms from the text of the following words?
awkward, impolite
unfriendly, unpleasant, sullen
offensive, bad-mannered
completely, firmly
easily offended or annoyed, too sensitive
IV. What are the opposites from the text of the following words?
1. rough
unimportant
calm
V. Match left to the right.
In the Arab world you would never
In China and Japan you should
polite
funny
a. never touch a woman.
b. give or receive a business card with your left hand.
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3. In the Middle East one should c. Mexico.
4. A slap on the back may be d. use both hands to give and
OK in receive a business card.
VI. Mark the sentences true (T) or false (F).
People like to talk loudly in India and China.
Americans and Germans talk loudly.
You should buy a good bottle of wine or whisky when you are invited to a Muslim family.
It will be OK to touch someone on the head in Thailand or Indonesia.
Your Japanese partner has invited you to a family dinner. A set of four tea cups will be a perfect present.
VII. Agree or disagree with the following statements. Give your reasons. Discuss your answers with your partner.
Good taste is helpful!
A knowledge of etiquette is essential to one's decent behavior.
Good taste or bad is revealed in everything we are, do, or have.
Follow-up activities
I. Discuss this list of unethical activities. In your opinion, which are the worst? Are they common in your country?
1. |
Avoiding paying tax. |
6. Using your influence to get jobs |
|
|
for relatives (nepotism). |
2. |
Claiming extra expenses. |
7. Ringing in sick when you are not |
|
|
sick. |
3. |
Using work facilities for |
8. Taking extended lunch breaks. |
private purposes (for example, |
|
|
personal phone calls). |
|
|
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4. |
Accepting |
praise |
for |
9. Giving good references to people |
|
someone else's ideas or work. |
you want to get rid of. |
||||
5. |
Selling a defective product |
10. Employing people without the |
|||
(for example, a second-hand |
correct paperwork. |
||||
car). |
|
|
|
||
Discuss with your partner whether the following standards of service should be expected from Customs officers in Belarus.
Wear a namebadge when dealing with the public.
Be polite and considerate and deal discreetly with confidential affairs.
Give clear, helpful information and make sure that Customs forms and leaflets are easy to understand and use.
Give the name of a person to contact in all communications.
Send a written reply to any letters within 10 working days of receiving them.
Give an explanation if there is a delay in answering letters.
Send a written reply within 10 working days or, if the matter is not resolved within that time, explain when the outcome may be expected.
III. There are wrong statements in the following text. Find them.
As an integral part of its commitment to service and protection,
Customs requires its staff to:
perform duties with honesty and integrity;
discharge their enforcement duties in a fair, reasonable and effective manner;
be fair, sensitive and courteous in all dealings with the public;
decline all gifts, hospitality or other benefits and never report the matter to the designated official;
provide advice and information to the public only on request;
protect commercial in-confidence information;
meet public interest and accountability standards;
advertise or make it known that you work for Customs;
avoid situations where private interests conflict with public duty.
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IV. Translate the following text of the Russian Customs officers' oath into Russian and compare your translation with the text from the Code.
«I swear that in exercising the powers of an official of a Customs authority of the Russian Federation I shall strictly comply with the Constitution and Legislation of the Russian Federation, protect its economic sovereignty and security, execute my employment-related duties in good faith and abide by the discipline of the Customs Service».
The Customs Code of the Russian Federation. Chapter 60. Article 420
V. Translate into English.
Таможенные администрации должны принять меры по обеспе-чению самых высоких стандартов добросовестности и профессио-нализма в таможенных органах. Следует обеспечить принятие мер, определенных СТС в Арушской декларации о добросовестности сотрудников таможни. Требуется также применение эффективных мер с целью борьбы с нед б с вестностью в торговых кругах.
VI. Agree or disagree with the following statements. Give your reasons. Discuss your answers with your partner. Supply some additional information.
Customs authorities must provide their officers with a healthy and safe work environment. Smoking must be banned: in all areas of buildings occupied by Customs – including offices, basements, toilets, vehicles, vessels or aircraft under the control of, or hired by Customs, and at all social functions held on Customs premises.
As a general rule, the use of official information and Customs documents beyond the official purposes is prohibited. Officers are required to protect the privacy of individuals in official dealings. Anyone with access to national security and sensitive matter has a responsibility to protect that information.
229
Customs staff do not expect gifts from the business community. But representatives of industry and commerce may offer Customs staff small gifts and souvenirs.
Customs staff may sometimes be offered free tickets to sporting events, concerts and the like or may be invited to use facilities provided at such events by companies which have dealings with Customs.
There is no expectation that the business community will provide hospitality of any sort to Customs staff. Hospitality will not be accepted by Customs staff in the following circumstances:
– during any period of contract negotiation where the host is a bidder or a bidder's associate, or
– where the nature or frequency of the hospitality could lead an officer, management or the public to conclude that an attempt is being made to influence the officer.
Europeans usually prefer to ride backwards on a continental train, and Americans prefer to face the engine. It is not etiquette to talk with fellow passengers; in fact, it is very middle-class.
In the Latin countries, graceful facility of speech is an object of lifelong cultivation – and no one is considered an educated person who cannot speak several languages well. Those who speak fluently, are seldom those who constantly interlace their own language with words from another.
Here is a short list of the fundamentals of everyday ethics which all children should be taught:
– the courage to be truthful;
– the will to stand hurt, the creed of sportsmanship;
– to be cheerful, to be kind through understanding the rights and feelings of others and
– to practise the first requirement of good breeding, which is self-control.
Line managers should have prime responsibility for identifying weaknesses in the integrity of their staff, and for taking steps to rectify such weaknesses.
Customs authorities should instill in their officers loyalty and pride in their service, an esprit de corps and a desire to co-operate in measures to reduce their exposure to the possibility of corruption.
The Arusha Declaration should be required bedtime reading for all Customs officials.
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VII. Translate into Russian.
Some people might define integrity as adherence to a code of values. Even the drug kingpins have a code of values, but do they have integrity? – The dictionary defines integrity as soundness of moral principle and character, uprightness, honesty. Employee integrity then could be defined as: soundness (of character) and adherence to the organization's code of values.
Life is made up not of great sacrifices or duties, but of little things, and many smiles and kindness, and small obligations, given habitually, are what win and preserve the heart and secure comfort.
The Customs Service expects officers to observe high standards of ethical behaviour in order to maintain public confidence in the integrity of the organization. Customs also expects that the business community will seek to gain an understanding of those ethical standards, and ensure that their own practices do not pressure Customs officers to depart from them but, rather, provide a supportive environment.
VIII. The sets of words and phrases below are related either to honesty or to dishonesty. Which word is different from the others in each set?
-
1. trustworthy
law-abiding
corrupt
2. a slush fund
a sweetener
compensation
3. insider trading
industrial espionage
disclosure
4. a whistleblower
fraudster
a con artist
5. a bribe
a bonus
a commission
6. fraud
secrecy
integrity
7. a confidentiality
a cover up
a whitewash
agreement
IX. Complete theses sentences with words and phrases from the sets above. Choose from the first set to complete sentence 1, from the second set to complete sentence 2, and so on.
Our company does nothing illegal. We are very_________.
We've got _______ which is used in countries where it is difficult to do business without offering bribes.
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Their car looked so much like our new model. We suspect _________.
They fired him because he was ________. He informed the press that the company was using under-age workers in the factory.
He denied accepting ______ when he gave the contract to the most expensive supplier.
I admire our chairman. He's a man of his word and is greatly respected for his ______.
Many companies ask new employees to sign _______ to avoid future litigation problems.
DO IT FOR FUN
I. Read the following information.
A company's internal code of ethics contains its ethical credo. A code of ethics goes beyond legal standards, which employees are required to abide by whether expressed or implied in their roles.
Mission statement is a declaration of the overall goal or purpose of an organization. It is a statement of the purpose of a company, organization or person, its reason for existing. The mission statement should guide the actions of the organization, spell out its overall goal, provide a path, and guide decision-making. The mission statement formulates the company's purpose both for those in the organization and for the public. It's like a goal for what the company wants to do for the world.
Discuss these questions. Give your reasons. Supply some additional information.
What is the purpose of a business? Is it just to make money?
What do you understand by these phrases?
a. business ethics
b. a code of good practice
c. a mission statement
3. Should mission statements include statements about eihics?
232
Are some jobs more ethical than others? How ethical do you think these professions are?
accountant civil servant
banker estate agent
car sales executive journalist
lawyer police officer
nurse teacher
dentist taxi driver
III. Work in groups. What should you do in each of these situations?
The best-qualified person for the post of Sales Manager is female. However, your customers would prefer a man. If you appoint a woman you will probably lose some sales.
Your company has a new advertising campaign which stersses its honesty, fairness and ethical business behaviour. It has factories in several countries where wages are very low. At present it is paying workers the local market rate.
A collegue working in a hospital has been making mistakes at work recently. This is because she has a serious illness. You are her friend and the only person at work who knows this. She has asked you to keep it a secret.
IV. Discuss the questions. Give your reasons. Supply some additional information.
Why is corruption more common in some countries than in others?
What are the consequences of corruption in your opinion?
V. Explain the meaning of the following proverbs in English and translate it into Russian:
Style is a dress of thoughts. (P. Stanhope1)
Manners make the man.
Philip Stanhope (1694–1773) – British statesman, diplomat.
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UNIT 11. CUSTOMS TECHNOLOGIES
Study the following words and word combinations from the text. intrusive detection technology интрузивная технология обна-
(seals) ружения (пломбы)
canine [ˈkeɪnaɪn] кинологический
density meters плотномеры
laser range finders лазерные дальномеры
fiberoptic scopes оптоволоконные оптические
пр целы
dielectrometers змер тели диэлектрической
п оницаемости
TEXT 11.1. TECHNICAL MEANS OF CUSTOMS CONTROL
Customs Administrations are responsible for facilitating trade while maintaining an appropriate level of control to prevent smuggling and other illegal Customs related activities. Today Customs Services have at their disposal a range of advanced technologies1 suitable for checkpoint, vehicle and suspect item inspection at airports, railways, ports and other border crossings. These technologies vary in terms of their intrusiveness and their levels of technical sophistication. They can be categorized as manual and low-tech equipment, intrusive detection technology (seals), and higher technology equipment (radiation detection pagers, and X-ray and gamma ray scanners). Each technology has its security-enhancing benefits as well as its potential drawbacks.
Technologies – new machines, equipment, and ways of doing things that are based on modern knowledge about science and computers.
234
X-ray based inspection systems are the most common form of noninvasive inspection technology currently in use. The power source for X-ray systems is electrical, so the power can be turned on and off. X-rays detect differences in material densities to produce an image of the vehicle or container contents.
Due to the nature of X-ray methods, specific materials cannot be identified; but it is possible with gamma ray systems to detect specific materials like drugs and explosives.
For searching entire vehicles, Cargosearch, a giant X-ray machine, is used. Cargosearch is housed in an equipment building with an adjacent X-ray bay that vehicles are taken through by means of a transport mechanism.
The transport lifts the front of the vehicle about two inches off the cement and carries it through the bay, stopping automatically at the end of the scan.
It can rapidly scan a truck much more efficiently than hand searching, utilizing fewer inspectors per search.
When a suspect area is found, conventional means including the canine enforcement officer teams and inspectors armed with density meters, laser range finders, fiberoptic scopes and dielectrometers are used to further detect any contraband. After that comes the hard work of inspectors with metal saws, tire breakdown machines and cutting torches.
Exercises
I. Describe to your classmates one of the tools mentioned in the text without giving its name. Let your partner guess which tool you mean.
Match the words on the left (a–j) with their corresponding definitions on the right (1–10).
a. gas proof torch |
1. |
тяжелые плоскогубцы |
b. heavy duty pliers |
2. |
разводной ключ |
c. wire snips |
3. |
буравчик |
d. shifting spanner |
4. |
щуп |
e. screw driver |
5. |
заклепочный молоток и набор за- |
клепок
235
f. gimlet holesaw |
6. |
ломик «фомка» |
g. rivet gun and rivets |
7. |
стальная проволока |
h. tuck stick |
8. |
ножницы для проволоки |
i. steel wire |
9. |
газобезопасный фонарь |
j. jimmy |
10. отвертка |
|
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
the applied use of information прикладное использование инфор-
technologies (IT) мац онных технологий (ИТ)
to support core Customs подде живать основные таможен-
functions ные функции
goods declaration processing бработка декларации товаров
automated decision support автоматизированная поддержка при-
on the release of goods нятия решений о выпуске товара
flexible service options for гибкие опции услуг для ведения
doing business бизнеса
a computerized imagery компьютеризованная система изоб-
system for capturing ражений / снимков для сбора / за-
photographic data in an писи фотографических данных в
electronic format электронном формате
contraband concealment методы сокрытия контрабанды
methods
236
-
the Automated Targeting
автоматизированная поисковая сис-
System (ATS)
тема
enforcement and decision
инструмент правоприменения и под-
support tool
держки принятия решений
meticulously [mɪˈtɪkjʊləslɪ]
тщательно, скрупулезно
the application of selectivity
применение критериев селективно-
criteria
сти / выборочности
fraudulent
мошеннический
the declared value of
заявленная стоимость продукции
products
to fall outside predetermined
выход ть за пределы заранее опре-
parameters
деленных параметров
to support a wide range of
подде живать
широкий спектр
Customs operations
таможенных операций
automated data processing
технологии
автоматизированной
technologies
обработки данных
Text 11.2. The role of information technologies
In the implementation of a modern customs policy
Customs administrations today face a variety of political and administrative pressures and challenges. These include fluctuating workloads with static or declining resources, greater business expectations, and continuing pressures to meet government revenue, trade facilitation, social protection, and national security objectives. Moreover, Customs administrations are increasingly required to integrate their systems and procedures with the sophisticated global logistics networks used by international trade and transport operators. To cope
237
with these pressures and challenges, the international Customs community looks to the applied use of information technologies (IT) as a means of improving organizational and operational efficiency and effectiveness. Customs Services in different countries today use varying degrees of automation to support core Customs functions such as goods declaration processing, revenue assessment, revenue collection, risk management, and management reporting.
The basic features of information technologies are the following:
EDI release transmission;
flexible service options for doing business;
new ways to manage Customs' workload between offices across the country;
automated decision support on the release of goods; and
capability of identifying high-risk shipments .
Customs Services all over the world use a computerized imagery system for capturing photographic data in an electronic format which can then be viewed at other locations in the computer network. Imagery is used to build photographic databases of contraband concealment methods, wanted persons, fingerprints, copyrights, trademarks and similar data.
Information and communications technologies can substantially contribute to making Customs operations both more effective and more efficient. Every Customs service must attempt to implement the most advanced ICT appropriate for its particular circumstances.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has developed the Automated Targeting System (ATS). ATS is one of the most advanced targeting systems in the world.
ATS is an intranet-based enforcement and decision support tool that is the cornerstone for all CBP targeting efforts. As a decision support tool ATS compares traveler, cargo, and conveyance information against intelligence and other enforcement data by incorporating risk-based targeting scenarios and assessments. ATS standardizes names, addresses, conveyance names, and similar data so these data elements can be more easily associated with other business data and personal information to form a more complete picture of a traveler, import, or export in context with previous behavior of the parties involved. ATS is compatible with other databases. ATS also collects data from foreign governments. It can automatically download, sort and screen-manifest any entry data. This
238
targeting system facilitates the flow of low risk cargo and concentrates the focus of inspectional enforcement assets on the cargo with the highest risk.
Canada Border Services Agency has developed Accelerated Commercial Release Operations Support System (ACROSS).
The system uses sophisticated electronic technology to streamline the way goods are imported into Canada. With ACROSS, importers and brokers exchange information electronically with the CBSA thereby eliminating the requirement to present paper release packages, subject to certain limitations.
By reducing the workload involved in the clearance of low-risk shipments, ACROSS enables goods to be released more efficiently and quickly. Importers spend less time dealing with the CBSA, which gives them more time to focus on their businesses.
The use of information technologies is an effective tool for risk management. It enables a more rapid analysis of selectivity criteria than would be possible manually. Automation allows Customs administrations to establish a national database of information on all transactions and movements which can be updated and used for rapid information sharing and identification of changing risk areas. It can also provide a database of all risk profiles which would form the basis for a selectivity module within an automated clearance system.
Automated systems allow Customs administrations to subject declarations to a series of selectivity filters to determine which declarations may require further examination.
The application of information technologies in Customs activity brings certain benefits:
enhanced Customs control over international consignments
improved control
reduced cargo clearance times for the discharge of customs formalities
closer cooperation with other border control agencies
uniform application of Customs and other border-related legislation
increased transparency and predictability for the business sector
more efficient revenue collection and accounting
more accurate and timely trade statistics
more accurate information for risk management and post-clearance audit purposes.
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These benefits are further enhanced when it is decided to leverage the key role that a Сustoms administration plays in the entire international trade cycle, to create an electronically connected trade community wherein all stakeholders are members.
Exercises
I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
1. sophisticated a. adaptable; easily changed to suit new
conditions
2. imagery b. objective; something to be aimed at
3. concealment c. highly complex or characterized by advanced
technique
4. target d. descriptions, figurative language
5. flexible e. act of hiding something, or keeping secret
II. Fill in the gaps to make the sentences complete.
Reference words: entry data, core, speed, photographic, computer network, contribute, information, computerized imagery system, operations, facilitates, low risk cargo, automatically, automation, sort, concentrates, the highest risk, transmission of data, electronic, technologies, format.
Customs Services in different countries today use varying degrees of … to support … Customs functions.
Customs Services all over the world use a … for capturing … data in an … … which can then be viewed at other locations in the …
… and communications … can substantially … to making Customs … both more effective and more efficient.
It can … download, … and screen-manifest any ... This targeting system … the flow of … and … the focus of inspectional enforcement assets on the cargo with ...
The system is designed to … the release of shipments by allowing electronic … to and from Canada Customs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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FOLLOW-UP ACTIVITIES I. Punctuate the following text.
Information technologies have already automated such procedures as goods declaration processing accounting and statistics the main objective of information technologies is to manage information within the Customs system in order to improve the efficiency of Customs clearance and control create favorable conditions for all participants of foreign economic activity customs control is in fact the main function of Customs administrations and much attention is paid to evaluation of its effectiveness it is obviously not possible to examine meticulously every consignment that enters a country in carrying out their control function therefore Customs must be selective the application of selectivity criteria in order to identify consignments for examination and documents for checking can of course take place in a manual system where however the functions of cargo control and/or Goods declaration processing have been automated such selectivity can be carried out on a much more informed and thorough basis intelligence gathered by Customs on a nationwide basis can be fed into the computer system and be taken into account when selectivity processing is taking place the probability of uncovering fraudulent practices is therefore increased in an automated environment in the field of valuation fraud computers can also be of assistance in identifying importations when the declared value of products falls outside predetermined parameters the principle of selectivity is the basic feature of risk management system which Customs control is based on risk management is an application of management procedures and practices which provide Customs with necessary information to detect movements or consignments that present a risk.
II. Translate the following word combinations into Russian.
1. Customs mainframe database |
6. goods declaration processing |
2. data transmission |
7. enforcement assets |
3. computer network |
8. low-risk cargo |
4. contraband concealment |
9. high-risk shipments |
methods |
|
5. stand-alone computer system |
|
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III. Speculate about the following.
Computer technologies are used by Customs administrations to support a wide range of Customs operations such as inventory control, accounting for goods, goods declaration processing, accounting for revenue, warehousing, enforcement, etc.
Because of the decreasing hardware costs and the opportunities afforded by the merging of data processing and telecommunications technologies, computer techniques will be used on an even wider scale in international trade in the future to facilitate the movement of goods.
Customs authorities investigate the feasibility of using ADP (automated data processing) technologies to support Customs operations and introduce computerized systems where feasible, cost- effective and otherwise appropriate.
Customs authorities may obtain operational costs from the trading community in recognition of the fact that the benefits of computerization accrue not only to Customs but also to other participants in trade.
Customs authorities should review and where appropriate modernize existing manual procedures, documentation and coding practices prior to introducing the use of ADP technologies.
The adoption of international standards for the representation of data elements, codes and coding structures, and interface protocols greatly facilitates data exchange between Customs administrations and international trade participants whenever there is a need for such data interchange.
ADP technologies are used in such areas as:
accounting for revenue accounting for goods
inventory control
goods declaration processing enforcement
production of statistics
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DO IT FOR FUN
I. Read the definitions. Supply the missing letters to each word.
1. a device that captures images |
s _ a _ _ e _ |
|
from photographic prints, posters, |
|
|
magazine pages, and similar sources |
|
|
for computer editing and display. |
|
|
2. entrance by force or without |
i _ t _ u _ _ _ n |
|
permission or welcome. |
|
|
3. the quality of being close together |
d _ _ s |
y |
and difficult to go or see through. |
|
|
II. Find the following hidden words in the word search.
INTRUSIVE NONINVASIVE
SCANNERS DENSITY
GAMMA DOWNLOAD
IMAGERY SELECTIVITY
243
244
UNIT 12. RISK MANAGEMENT IN CUSTOMS
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
-
streamline
рационализировать
condense
конденсироваться
to scrutinize
изучать, тщательно исследовать
compliant
соответствующий требованиям
to expedite [ˈekspɪdaɪt]
ускорять
; облегчать, упрощать
Text 12.1. Customs control
Customs administrations need to maintain the appropriate balance between facilitating legitimate trade and travel while ensuring compliance with the laws and regulations they enforce and to demonstrate that these laws and regulations are applied fairly, efficiently and effectively.
To ensure that Customs can appropriately apply these laws and regulations, all international movements have to be declared for Customs control. Customs administrations have to apply efficient and effective controls by implementing risk management techniques, in order to simultaneously fulfill the responsibility to collect revenue, implement trade policy, safeguard the public, manage the increase in world trade and tourism, reduce Customs personnel, and offer trade facilitation to legitimate traders, travellers and carriers.
There are many ways of responding to these combined objectives by improved facilitation and control within a set of modern Customs practices.
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Customs control is, in fact, the main function of Customs administrations and much attention is paid to evaluation of its effectiveness.
«Customs control» is defined as «measures applied to ensure compliance with the laws and regulation which Customs are responsible for enforcing».1
One way of linking facilitation with control is by using electronic data interchange. The move towards electronic data interchange will streamline the division of information previously condensed into one comprehensive declaration form.
Control of passengers and their clearance time through Customs can also be much improved by innovative procedures based on electronic advanced passenger information systems.
The principle of Customs control is the proper application of Customs laws and compliance with other legal and regulatory requirements, with maximum facilitation of international trade and travel.
Customs controls should therefore be kept to the minimum necessary to meet the main objectives and should be carried out on a selective basis using risk management techniques to the greatest extent possible.
Application of the principle of Customs control will allow Customs administrations to:
focus on high-risk areas and therefore ensure more effective use of available resources,
increase ability to detect offences and non-compliant traders and travelers,
offer compliant traders and travelers greater facilitation and
expedite trade and travel.
Exercises
I. Find the words/phrases in the text which follow the verbs below.
1. to ensure 6. to collect
2. to enforce 7. to meet
3. to apply 8. to carry out
4. to fulfill 9. to detect
5. to implement 10. to expedite
The Glossary of international Customs terms.
246
Make phrases by matching words from the left with words from the right and translate them.
A
1. legitimate a. basis
2. appropriate b. balance
3. efficient c. procedures
4. innovative d. trade
5. selective e. controls
B
Translate the following sentences using the phrases from the exercise above.
Customs administrations need to maintain the … between facilitating legitimate trade and travel and ensuring compliance with the laws and regulations they enforce.
Customs Service is responsible for facilitating …
In order to cope with the challenges Customs Services face today, they need to apply … to all goods, means of transport and travellers.
Customs controls can be improved by … based on risk management techniques.
Customs controls should be carried out on a …
III. Answer the following questions.
What are Customs administrations responsible for?
What is Customs control?
How can Customs control be facilitated?
What is the principle of Customs control?
Why should Customs control be carried out on a selective basis?
What benefits can Customs administrations enjoy when applying the principle of Customs control?
247
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
to disharge
discernible [dɪˈsɜːnəbl]
extent
integrity
perishable cargo
affixing seals
perforations
feasible
itinerary [aɪˈtɪnərərɪ] to retain the right
to take stock of the goods audit based controls to preclude
assets and liabilities to disclose financial statements disruption
разгружать
заметный, видимый
степень, объем , величина
целостность, цельность
скоропортящийся груз
наложения печатей и пломб перфорациивозможный, осуществимый ма ш ут
сох анять право
инвентаризировать товар
аудиторский контроль
препятствовать, мешать
активы и пассивы
раскрывать
финансовая отчетность
разрыв
Text 12.2. Control methods
Customs administrations today are required to provide extensive facilitation while maintaining control over the international movement of goods, means of transport and persons.
There are some basic types of control methods. They can be applied to any size of trader from the small irregular importer and exporter to the
248
multi-national business. They can also be applied irrespective of the value of the duties and taxes in question.1
Movement controls
These controls are measures applicable to goods and means of transport before or upon arrival, departure or during a Customs procedure, until they are released. Commercial means of transport which stop only for a short time in the Customs territory without discharging or taking on passengers or cargo, are not normally subject to measures other than general supervision.
The selection of goods, means of transport, or documents for examination, should be based on risk profiles to target specific transactions.
If a potential Customs offence is discovered during the movement control, there must be communication and co -ordination with the appropriate enforcement unit to start a formal investigation.
Documentary examination
The information gained from the examination of documents enables verification for compliance purposes and matching against risk profiles. The submission of the documents prior to the arrival/departure of the goods and means of transport allows the pre-selection of the movement for examination. It enables Customs to decide about the release of the goods and means of transport before they actually arrive in the Customs territory. Information presented in the documents when compared to information available to Customs can assist in targeting for special attention.
Physical examination / Search
The physical examination of goods and the search of commercial means of transport is undertaken to verify the nature and/or the relationship between the goods/means of transport and the documents presented. In addition Customs administrations may carry out checks to ensure that commercial means of transport fulfill the technical conditions laid down by certain international agreements for the international transport of goods. Physical examinations or searches should be carried out as rapidly as possible.
If the document review indicates that the movement is satisfactory and no discernible risks are present a physical examination is not
Kyoto Convention. General Annex guidelines. Chapter 6 Customs control.
249
normally necessary. If the documents however indicate the need for a physical examination of the goods, the extent of this examination will depend on the type of goods and the suspected Customs offence.
There are two levels of physical examination. The first, summary examination, includes examining the outside of containers and of packages for marks and numbers compliance, checking the integrity of any seal, and verifying other details on the goods declaration, where possible without opening the containers or packages.
A second, detailed examination may also be carried out on occasion. This involves opening the container or packages and examining the goods themselves in order to verify their description on the goods declaration as to value, origin, classification and duty rate.
As indicated above, the level and nature of the physical examination of goods should be determined by the information available on the consignment, the Customs procedure under which the goods are declared, provisions in international agreements, and any special nature of the goods (e.g. perishable cargo, live animals, dangerous goods, jewels, antiques, works of art, etc.). Other factors which can influence the decision are urgency and location, as well as the resources available to conduct the examination. Regarding commercial means of transport, Customs should take into account the type of the means of transport and the purpose of the stay in the Customs territory.
If it is not possible during the physical examination to determine the tariff heading of the goods, samples could be drawn in order to expedite the release of the goods.
Identification of goods
To allow goods subject to certain Customs procedures, e.g. transit, transhipment, temporary admission, warehousing, inward processing, etc., to enter or move through the Customs territory without paying duties and taxes, specific measures are required to ensure their identification.
These measures may include affixing seals, stamps, perforations, identification marks, describing the goods, reference to samples, plans, sketches or photographs.
Where the above is not feasible or sufficient due to specific exceptional reasons, transit procedures may prescribe an itinerary or allow transport of the goods under Customs escort. In the case of inward/outward processing it is possible to fix specific or standard rates
250
of yield of the operation and to require specific documentation on the manufacturing.
In cases of temporary storage, warehouses or free zones, Customs may require the trader to identify the type of goods being stored as well as the location of the storage facility. It should be a supervised facility and where necessary secured by a double lock. Customs retains the right to take stock of the goods periodically.
Persons accompanying goods
Routine controls on persons arriving in a country are generally the responsibility of the Immigration service rather than Customs. Clearly, however, Customs' risk management will be enhanced by information on persons accompanying goods arriving in a Customs territory. This information could include the person's identity, journey details etc.
For checking travelers and their baggage arriving by air or sea, the control should be facilitated by the use of the dual - channel or red/green system. This system improves the flow of traffic without reducing the effectiveness of the control. Checks on travelers passing through the green channel should be carried out on a selective basis using risk management techniques. Travelers in the red channel have to fulfil all required formalities.
Personal searches for Customs purposes should be carried out only in exceptional cases when the person is identified as a high risk or when there are reasonable grounds to suspect an offence. To preserve human dignity, physical searches should only be carried out by persons of the same gender as the person being searched, and medical examinations only by qualified physicians.
Audit-based controls
To manage the worldwide increase in trade and to provide traders with greater facilitation, Customs increasingly rely on audit based controls, using traders' commercial systems. These controls may vary from a simple post-clearance audit to trader selfassessment.
Audit-based controls do not preclude physical examination of the goods. To ensure the reliability of the traders' commercial systems for these purposes, they must follow the generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) within the country. These principles determine which economic resources and obligations should be recorded as assets and liabilities, how the assets and liabilities and changes in them should be
251
measured, what information should be disclosed and how it should be disclosed, and which financial statements should be prepared.
Customs administrations should aim for a reasonable and equitable balance between ensuring compliance and minimising disruption and costs to legitimate trade and the public.
Facilitation and control need not conflict. If managed well, facilitation can enhance the success of control procedures.
EXERCISES
I. Supply the correct preposition.
measures applicable … goods
to stop … a short time … the Customs territory
to base … risk profiles
to be discovered … the movement control
to gain information … the examination … documents
to verify … compliance purposes
to match … risk profiles
submission … documents prior … the arrival … the goods
to decide … the release … goods
to carry … checks
to indicate the need … a physical examination
to examine the outside … containers … marks and numbers compliance
to check the integrity … seals
to verify details … the goods declaration … opening the containers
to declare the goods … Customs procedure
to transport the goods … Customs escort
to pass … the green / red channel
to carry … a detailed examination … occasion
to improve the flow … traffic … reducing the effectiveness … the control
II. Answer the following questions.
What is the basis for the selection of goods, means of transport for examination?
252
What enables Customs to make a decision about the release of goods and means of transport before they actually arrive in Customs territory?
What is the purpose of undertaking the physical examination of goods and the search of commercial means of transport?
What is summary examination?
What is a detailed examination?
What should the level and nature of physical examination of goods be determined by?
What does the identification of goods include?
What may Customs require in case of temporary storage, warehouses or free zones?
What is the dual channel system used for?
What does audit based control involve?
III. Mark the following statements as True (T) or False (F).
Movement controls are applied to some goods and means of transport after they are released.
If a potentional Customs offence is discovered during the movement control, there must be no communication and coordination with the appropriate enforcement unit.
Documentary examination enables Customs to decide about the release of goods and means of transport before they actually arrive in the Customs territory.
Physical examination or searches should be carried out as slow as possible.
If there is a need for a physical examination of the goods the extent of this examination depends on the mood of a Customs officer.
While carrying out physical examination, Customs officers should open all containers and packages.
Identification of goods is not necessary when they enter or move trough the Customs territory without paying duties and taxes.
Checks on travelers pasing through the green channel should be carried out on a selective basis.
Personal searches for Customs purposes should be constantly carried out.
Facilitation can enhance the success of control procedures.
253
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
to incur [ɪnˈkɜː]
magnitude
rationale [ræʃəˈnɑːl]
to sift out
to deploy
throughput
excessive bureaucratic
constraints
нести
величина
обоснование
отсеивать
использовать, развертывать
пропускная способность
чрезмерные бюрократические
ог ан чен я
Text 12.3. The risk management process
For Customs administrations there is always an element of risk
in facilitating the movement of goods and persons. The extent of controls to ensure compliance with the laws and regulations which the Customs are responsible for enforcing should be proportionate to the level of assessed risk.
The level of risk is determined in the context of the priorities of the Customs administrations e.g. whether the priority is collection of duties and taxes or checking prohibitions and restrictions or any other specific area that has been identified.
The risk management process comprises the establishment of the risk management context, risk identification, risk analysis, risk assessment, addressing the risks and monitoring and reviewing the process through compliance measurement.1
Kyoto Convention. General Annex guidelines. Chapter 6 Customs control.
254
a. Establish the context
This step establishes the strategic and organizational context in which risk management will take place. Risk areas have to be identified and criteria against which risk will be assessed established and the structure of the analysis defined.
b. Identify risks
Identify what, why and how risks can arise as the basis for further analysis. This step requires an in depth description of the current control process. It includes: participants/clients/stakeholders; strengths and weaknesses; where, when, how is the risk likely to be incurred and by whom; what are the threats and their impact in case of circumvention; why do opportunities arise for circumvention.
c. Analyze risks
Determine controls and analyse risks in terms of likelihood and consequence. The analysis should consider: how likely is an event to happen; and what are the potential consequences and their magnitude.
Combine these elements to produce an estimated level of risk.
If the estimated levels are low, then risks may fall into an acceptable category and action may not be needed.
d. Assess and prioritize risks
Compare estimated levels of risk against the pre-established criteria. Rank the risks to identify management priorities. The risks can be of HIGH, MEDIUM, and LOW levels. Risks must be continually monitored for any change in their nature, level or significance.
e. Address risks
Accept and monitor low-priority risks. For other risks, develop and implement a specific management plan which includes consideration of resources (human, financial and technical).
f. Monitor and review – Compliance measurement
Monitor and review the performance, effectiveness and efficiency of the risk management system and changes which might affect it.
g. Documentation
There should be a risk register which gives the rationale behind selecting the risks, and records the assumptions on which assessments have been made, to establish an audit trail that ensures important information is not lost.
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Risk management within Customs can be strategic, operational or tactical. It should be remembered that the risk management process can apply across all of these levels.
Strategic risk management. By studying comprehensive information, Customs administrations can identify areas of risk, sift out those of minor importance, and intervene only where experienced and practical judgement indicates it is necessary. Risk areas in the Customs context can include social issues (exclusion of drugs, pornography etc.), import/export prohibitions and restrictions (eg. CITES), public health, environment, commercial policy measures (e.g. IPR, GSP), quotas, and duty and tax issues.
Operational risk management – is the determination of the level of control necessary to deal effectively with the assessed risk. An example of this is determining the audit controls applied to an importer or how to deploy limited staff and equipment effectively. Using this approach the Customs moves from being a «gatekeeper» checking every movement, to checking only selected movements which demonstrate the greatest risk.
Tactical risk management – is used by officers at their workplace in dealing with immediate situations. Using set procedures combined with intelligence, experience and skill, they decide which movements require greater controls.
Selectivity, profiling and targeting are integral parts of risk management (figure).
RISK |
SELECTIVITY |
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CRITERIA |
RISK |
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RISK PROFILE |
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AREAS |
Choice of |
INDICATORS |
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Combination |
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general |
Specific details |
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information |
for the risk |
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of risk indicators |
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Parts of risk management
Selectivity criteria for dutiable goods include the history of the importer, exporter, carrier, agent, etc., the origin and routing of the goods, and prohibitions or restrictions.
Risk indicators are specified selectivity criteria such as: specific commodity code, country of origin, country whence consigned, licensing
256
indicator, value, trader, level of compliance, type of means of transport, purpose of the stay in the Customs territory, financial consequences, or financial situation of the trader/person.
Risk profiling is the means by which Customs puts risk management into practice. It replaces random examination of documents and goods with a planned and targeted working method, making maximum use of Customs resources. A risk profile is a document which can be set out in a number of ways but it should be comprehensive and relevant to the traffic throughput in a Customs office.
The risk profile should contain a description of the risk area, an assessment of the risk, the counter-measures to be taken, an action date, the results and an evaluation of the effectiveness of the action taken. A risk profile can be kept in a binder or on a local computer and it should be as accessible as possible to Customs officers.
Once established, the profiles along with other information and intelligence will provide a basis for targeting potentially high risk movements of consignments, means of transport, or travelers.
Risk indicators are emerging all the time. Customs should keep them up to date by gathering and accessing information from various sources such as the WCO Enforcement Bulletin, Regional Intelligance Liason Office, international databases on trader information (e.g. Dun & Bradstreet, Lloyd's Shipping register) and from other administrations acting under the Narobi Convention or bilateral agreements. It is essential that gathering and accessing information be based on mutual
administrative assistance.
Risk profiles should be reviewed at regular intervals to ensure that they are always up to date, and to rid the system of information that is no longer relevant. It is also important to carry out random checks, because companies that are in regular contact with Customs will be aware of profiling methods or sometimes the profiles themselves.
These random checks can also provide a cost effective means of identifying other types of risk and of monitoring or estimating their significance, or any changes in the risk pattern.
Review and evaluation within the risk management process should be incorporated into a regular review procedure to measure, assess and evaluate the effectiveness of the overall Customs control programme and should take into account the findings of external government audits.
257
Staff at all levels should be involved in these regular reviews. Feedback from staff is essential so that constant validation can take place and the necessary updating can be applied.
Customs administrations are encouraged to implement control procedures based on the use of risk management and profiling techniques as a means to identify reliable operators/persons who may then benefit from greater facilitation as opposed to those operators/persons which require higher levels of control.
Risk management is a basic principle of modern Customs control methods. It allows optimum exploitation of Customs' resources without threatening the effectiveness of controls, while relieving a majority of the trade/public from excessive bureaucratic constraints.
Procedures based on risk management techniques concentrate controls on the areas of highest risk while leaving the bulk of goods/persons to pass relatively freely through Customs.
Exercises
I. Match the words from the text with their corresponding definitions.
audit-based control a. the systematic determination of risk management priorities by evaluating and comparing the level of risk against predetermined standards, target risk levels or other criteria.
2. mutual b. specific criteria which, when taken together,
administrative serve as a practical tool to select and target
assistance movements for the potential for non-
compliance with Customs law.
3. risk areas c. actions of a Customs administration on
behalf of or in collaboration with another
Customs administration for the proper
application of Customs laws and for the
prevention, investigation and repression of
Customs offences.
258
4. risk assessment |
d. measures by |
which Customs |
satisfy |
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themselves as to the accuracy and authenticity |
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of declarations through the examination of |
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the relevant books, records, business systems |
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and commercial data held by persons |
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concerned. |
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5. risk indicators |
e. the |
potential |
for |
non-compliance |
with |
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Customs laws. |
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6. risk profile |
f. any physical or electronic medium designed |
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to carry and actually carrying a record of |
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data entries. |
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7. risk analysis |
g. a |
predetermined |
combination |
of |
risk |
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indicators, based on information which has |
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been gathered, analysed and categorised. |
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8. document |
h. when someone obeys a rule, agreement, or |
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demand |
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9. risk |
i. those Customs procedures and categories |
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of international traffic which present a risk. |
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10. customs offence |
j. the systematic application of management |
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procedures and practices which provide |
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Customs with the necessary information to |
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address movements or consignments which |
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present a risk. |
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11. risk management |
k. measures to ensure that a trader's system |
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contains the checks and controls necessary |
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for compliance with Customs laws. |
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12. systems-based |
l. any breach or attempted breach of Customs |
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control |
law. |
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13. compliance |
m. systematic use of available information to |
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determine how often defined risks may occur |
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and the magnitude of their likely consequences. |
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259
Find 3 abbreviations for the given definitions. They are hidden in the grid horizontally and vertically.
-
G
I
P
R
K
S
E
T
I
C
P
B
l
A
T
It is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.
Intangible rights protecting the products of human intelligence and creation, such as copyrightable works, patented inventions, Trademarks, and trade secrets.
A system which provides developing countries with unilateral preferential market access to developed-country markets in order to spur economic growth in poorer countries.
III. Speculate about the following:
How can Customs benefit from risk management?
FOLLOW-UP ACTIVITIES
I. Fill in the gaps to make the sentences complete.
Reference words: internal and external environment, risk, activity, risk management, assess, cost-effective, stakeholders, adverse, logical, study, criteria, consequences, basic, appropriate, determine, evaluation.
All activities undertaken in Customs carry an element of … Customs manages its exposure to risks through the practice of ...
Risk management is about looking at activities in a … and systematic way, to maximise opportunities and to minimise … effects.
The context sets the scope of the risk management process and defines the … parameters within which risk must be managed. It includes the … and the purpose of the risk management ... The context brings into focus the background of the …, the sources of risk and the … involved.
260
Risk analysis helps … whether risks need to be treated and the most … and … risk treatment strategies. Risk is analysed by combining … and their likelihood. When assessing risk, Customs considers all existing controls and management plans to … the risk level.
Risk … involves comparing the level of risk found during the analysis process with risk … established when the context was considered.
II. Translate into English.
Таможенные администрации должны максимально использовать информационные технологии для оказания содействия таможенным органам в эффективном осуществлении их функций. Следует рас-
ширять применение компьютеров для таможенной обработки внеш-неторговых и финансовых сделок с учетомдекларацийопыта всех стран. Сле-дует разрабатывать и передавать торговцам компьютерные интер-
фейсы (в целях использования стандартов обмена данными) для
представления в электронном в де судового груза, товарных деклараций и т. д.
EDI is not a technical exercise but rather a business strategy. The reasons for introducing EDI to facilitate the transport flow include: (Choose 8 items).
■ reduction of documents ■ tax exemption
■ improved lead time ■ more relevant and accurate
information
■ weather forecast information ■ improved control
■ improved customer service ■ better planning of transport
activities
■ scheduled coffee-breaks ■ repair service
■ better utilization of equipment ■ higher salaries ■ improved Customs Service
261
IV. Translate into Russian.
PRE-SHIPMENT INSPECTION
The pre-shipment inspection is based on physical inspection of goods by the private inspection agencies in the countries of exportation, i.e. prior to the shipments. The Customs shall be advised by these pre-shipment inspection companies regarding the physical aspects of the goods as well as the recommended value.
DO IT FOR FUN
I. Read the following text and discuss it with your partner.
PERSONAL SAFETY
Do you agree that there are many common- sense actions you can take to increase your safety but four basic things which you should always remember are:
checking the people without an official or visitor's badge that you do not recognize in the non-public part of your building?
telling someone where you are going if you are working away from the office?
leaving the premises you are visiting if you feel especially threatened or vulnerable and discussing it with your manager as soon as possible?
insisting that the trader (visitor, passenger...) removes aggressive animals from the work area?
II. Speculate about the following:
We either change to meet the demands of new times or we vanish to be replaced by others more open to adventure. (Frank Ogden1)
Frank Ogden – free-spirited futurist known as Dr. Tomorrow who was one of the first people to predict that the Internet would come to dominate our lives.
262
III. Find the following hidden words in the word search.
INFORMATION RISK INDICATORS
TECHNOLOGIES RISK AREAS
SELECTIVITY CRITERIA
RISK PROFILE
263
UNIT 13. CUSTOMS COMMUNICATIONS
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
to amend изменять, исправлять
to batch пакетировать, группировать
intermediate document промежуточный документ
output file выходной фа л
Automated Export System автомат з рованная система экс-по та
Shipper's Export Declaration записи экспортной декларации гру-
records з отправителя
Communications – ways of sending information, especially using radio, telephone, or computers.
Communication – the process by which people exchange information or express their thoughts and feelings.
(The Longman Dictionary
of Contemporary English)
264
Text 13.1. How to communicate with customs
Customs administrations communicate with the traders by using various sophisticated information and communications technologies.
Electronic communication in Customs Management takes place by printing messages or creating Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) messages. The EDI is a class of industry specific message formats used in electronic commerce. It can communicate and set up electronic Customs processes with various European, US, and Australian Customs authorities. It can also address different filing formats, data transmission requirements, and other features.
Clients may connect via the Internet for EDI, or alternatively clients with high volumes of transactions may find it more cost-effective to have a direct connection to Customs. There are many EDI software packages commercially available to industry.
There are certain advantages and disadvantages of EDI.
Advantages
Ability to store records.
Declarations and cargo reports can be held, saved, amended, printed and retransmitted.
Ability to batch transactions.
Option for other business enhancements to software, such as accounting and auditing functions.
Disadvantages
Higher set-up and maintenance costs.
Software reliability and impact of downtime.
Potential costs of training staff.
Exporters have the option of lodging Export Declarations (EDNs) by two methods:
By document. This is referred to as a documentary export declaration involving the completion of a paper declaration, prepared by the owner or agent acting on behalf of the owner. Documentary export declarations must be lodged in person at a Customs counter.
Electronically. Export declarations can only be lodged by a registered user of different systems. The system converts the data into an Intermediate Document (IDoc) and sends the IDoc output file (i.e., text) to a middleware. The middleware acts as a translator to convert the IDoc file into the format in which the receiving system expects it.
265
US Customs and Border Protection uses Automated Export System (AES), which collects and retains electronic Shipper's Export Declaration records. AES provides a standardized, efficient, real-time information exchange between Сustoms authorities and traders. It features enhanced flexibility regarding legal and organizational changes and accelerates purchasing, production, and sales processes.
In Australia traders communicate electronically with Customs via the Integrated Cargo System (ICS). Under the ICS, Customs uses an open system based on Internet protocols. This provides clients with a number of options for communicating with Customs:
a range of enhanced functions for lodging import and export declarations and cargo reports;
facilities to amend previous electronic data interchange (EDI) messages;
access to the diagnostic facility to verify the status of transactions in the ICS;
the ability to update the client register.
There are a number of existing and emerging Customs management computer systems available today on the market. All have a core of similar modules that permit Customs to manage its customs clearance operations using computer and communications-supported modules.
Information and communications technologies can substantially contribute to making Customs operations both more effective and more efficient.
Answer the following questions.
What is Electronic Data Interchange?
What are advantages and disadvantages of EDI?
What are the options for traders to communicate with Customs?
266
to call for
to raise general public awareness
to identify emerging issues
to comply with Customs requirements
Study the following words and word combinations from the text.
предусматривать, требовать
повышать осведомленность обще-ственности
выявлять возникающие проблемы соблюдать таможенные
TEXT 13.2. BENEFITSтребованияOFCOMMUNICATION
Generally, modern Customs administrations have two main tasks to collect duties and taxes, which represent a substantial proportion of the government's revenue, and to protect society by combatting the movement of restricted and prohibited goods. In performing these tasks Customs administrations need to maintain the appropriate balance between facilitating legitimate trade and travel while ensuring compliance with the laws and regulations they enforce, and to demonstrate that these laws and requirements are applied fairly, efficiently, and effectively.
To achieve these objectives Customs requires a sound organization with well-trained, motivated, and informed officers who apply the law clearly and consistently, and an effective system of communication.
Effective communication will bring benefits to Customs management and staff, the business community, and the public. Although it contributes positively to the administration's overall image, its main objective is to achieve compliance. A total Customs communication system can be extremely complex, but its complexity varies with the needs associated with particular Customs organizations and their operational environmental situations. Each Customs function or
267
situation calls for its own subsystem of communication. Effective communication helps
management by:
ensuring that target groups be informed;
raising general public awareness of Customs' role;
measuring business and public acceptance;
identifying emerging issues;
assisting in policy making.
staff by:
developing better relations between the public, the business community, and employees;
assisting in the delivery of quality service;
promoting confidence and morale, thus motivating them to carry out their duties;
improving the public's and the business community's perception of their tasks;
ensuring the proper flow of information to and from employees. the business community by:
contributing to businesses ability to comply with Customs
requirements, which contributes to higher compliance;
ensuring that their views and opinions are taken into account when designing and implementing programmes;
demonstrating to business that the law is being applied fairly.
the public by:
enabling individuals to comply with Customs requirements by informing them about their rights and obligations;
o minimizing any inconveniences;
o educating them about the benefits for their communities.
When dealing with the staff, the public, and the business community, Customs administrations should ensure consistency in applying Customs laws and regulations by:
– providing accurate, complete, objective, timely, relevant, and understandable information about policies, programmes, and services;
– ensuring their concerns and views to be taken into account when establishing priorities, developing policies, and implementing programmes.
268
In a business context, all communication can be divided into two categories namely, external Communication and internal Communication.
Internal communication is the flow of information within the organization. The goals of effective internal communication are to:
disseminate the information required for staff to perform the work effectively;
motivate staff through a feeling of belonging and pride;
ensure that staff are aware of the administration's goals, policies, and priorities;
make staff sensitive to the needs and concerns of the public and the business community; and
provide staff with a forum to contribute ideas to improve the way Customs conducts its business.
External communication is the flow of information from the organization to ensure that the public and the business community have the information they need to comply with the law and to instil confidence in the quality of the organization. The goals of effective external communication are to:
disseminate the information in a useful, timely, and accuratemanner;
ensure the public and the business community understand theirrights and obligations;
educate the public and the business community about the role ofthe Customs administration in collecting revenue, protecting society, and facilitating trade;
ensure that the Customs administration knows and understands theneeds of the public and the business community;
ensure that the views of the public and the business community aretaken into account in policy-making programme design.
Effective communication is vital to raise awareness on specific topics as well as Customs achievements, to enhance transparency, to change perceptions when needed and improve compliance rates. Good communication also has profound impacts in how we learn from each other.
269
EXERCISES
I. What are the synonyms from the text of the following
words/phrases?
1. to keep, preserve, uphold 6. to act in accordance with
2. to guarantee 7. to realize
3. to compel, to put in force 8. interrogation, investigation
4. honestly, justly 9. surroundings
5. firm, stable, secure 10. to fight against, to oppose by
force
II. Find the words in the text which follow the verbs below.
-
1.
to achieve
5.
to bring
9. to promote
2.
to enforce
6.
to raise
10. to combat
3.
to facilitate
7.
to identify
11. to enhance
4.
to collect
8.
to develop
12. to comply
Match the adjectives on the left with the nouns on the right to make a word combination and translate them.
-
economic
1.
goods
informed
2.
Customs officers
international
3.
balance
motivated
4.
procedures
legitimate
5.
trade
effective
6.
organization
prohibited
7.
communication
restricted
8.
provisions
business
9.
community
sound
10. situation
well-trained
simplified
environmental
operational
appropriate
270
IV. Match left to the right to make a sentence complete.
1. |
Customs administrations |
a. the facilitation of legitimate trade |
collect duties and taxes, which |
and ensuring compliance with the |
|
represent a substantial |
laws and regulations they enforce. |
|
proportion of ... |
|
|
2. |
Customs administrations |
b. policy making. |
play a leading role in ... |
|
|
3. |
Customs administrations |
c. information to and from |
need to maintain the |
employees. |
|
appropriate balance between ... |
|
|
4. |
Customs requires a sound |
d. the benefits for their |
organization with ... |
communities. |
|
5. |
Effective communication |
e. the government's revenue. |
will bring benefits to ... |
|
|
6. |
Effective communication |
f. Customs requirements. |
helps management by assisting |
|
|
in ... |
|
|
7. |
Effective communication |
g. well-trained, motivated and |
helps staff by assisting in ... |
informed officers. |
|
8. |
Effective communication |
h. protecting society from drugs. |
helps staff by ensuring the |
|
|
proper flow of ... |
|
|
Effective communication helps the public by enabling individuals to comply with ...
Effective communication helps the public by educating them about ...
i. the delivery of quality service.
j. Customs management and staff, the business community, and the public.
271
V. Complete the following sentences with the correct forms of the verbs from the box.
-
use
assist
restrict
inform
protect
call
make
prohibit
apply
attach
simplify
motivate
accomplish
Customs administrations must play a leading role in … society.
Customs must combat the movement of … and … goods.
Customs requires a sound organization with well-trained, … and … officers.
Effective communication helps management by… in policy …
Customs administration should ensure consistency in … Customs laws and regulations.
Such activities as inquiries officer's conduct, and … procedures fundamentally influence the attitudes of the public and business community.
The Customs Service in different countries experimented with many sophisticated technologies to aid in … their various tasks.
A new system … the Integrated Cargo System (ICS) has been introduced in Australia.
It was carried to Customs with a cheque … by a paper clip.
Brokers started … a statement to make payment to Customs.
VI. Translate into English.
1. Какая еще важная задача стоит перед таможенной службой временнымпомимосбора налогов и пошлин?
2. Поч му для таможенной администрации важно сохранять рав-нов сие м жду содействием развитию торговли и туризма и одно-
обеспечением соблюдения требуемых законов и правил?
Что требуется таможне для достижения ее целей?
Что оказывает значительное влияние на отношение общест-венности и деловых кругов к таможенной службе?
Что собой представляет система таможенных связей?
272
Как может помочь таможенному руководству эффективная система коммуникаций?
Почему важно и общественным и деловым кругам действовать
