ESIA succeeds in new WCO classification

The decision by WCO members will greatly simplify classification operations of MCOs for industry and customs administrations. The classification initiative is complementary to ESIA efforts to achieve zero-duty treatment of MCOs via an Expanded Information Technology Agreement (ITA). MCOs take functions previously done by two or more semiconductors and combine them into a single device manufactured using semiconductor technology. They are an example of the industry technology trend of expansion of functionality and performance, generally called “More than Moore”, where the European industry has specific strengths. MCOs have a growing share of the global semiconductor market and are used in applications which – among others - reduce road fatalities, enable resource efficiency in vehicles, improve car safety (e.g. in electric power steering, braking systems, tire-pressure monitoring devices, airbag systems), and save electricity in electronic equipment and household electrical appliances. Also they perform essential functions in many different consumer products such as mobile phones and smartphones, cameras, MP3 players, etc. “The new MCOs classification in the Harmonized System will allow industry to streamline compliance operations resulting in a real facilitation of global trade. ESIA now calls for a rapid conclusion of an ambitious Expanded ITA in order to