The state policy in the sphere of foreign trade allows economic subjects of all forms of property, including foreign economic subjects, to operate without any discrimination in any sphere of entrepreneurial activities that are not prohibited by the law and are not detrimental to the economy. Foreign trade transactions are one of the most profitable types of economic activities.
From December 1992 the Republic of Belarus has the status of observer at the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT, from 1 January 1995 - the World Trade Organisation). At the contemporary stage joining the WTO remains a priority direction of the state foreign economic policy.
Foreign trade activities are formed along the principles of openness of the economy, liberalisation and observance of terms and conditions determined by trade and economic agreements of the Republic of Belarus.
The state policy in the sphere of foreign trade is implemented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With participation of the Ministry the National Centre of Marketing and Price Conjuncture has been set up and is operating. Its functions include preparation of databases for economic subjects, on foreign trade partners, etc. Besides, a special committee on control over foreign trade transactions has been set up at the Administration of the President of the Republic of Belarus. A broad network of market agents operates directly in the foreign economic sphere: trade firms and agents, organisers of fairs and exhibitions; consulting services on marketing and foreign trade; advertising agencies and polygraph enterprises; engineering consulting; a distribution network; transport, shipment and storage enterprises.
In compliance with the legislation of the Republic of Belarus activities on export or import of certain types of commodities, work and services can be conducted on the ground of special permits (licences). The lists of these commodities, work and services, the procedure of licensing and the Republic's body authorised to issue licences are defined by the Government of the Republic of Belarus.
In compliance with Article 9 of the Law On State Regulation of Foreign Trade Activities it is established that no quantitative restrictions on export and import are introduced with the exception of restrictions connected with:
- assuring economic safety of the Republic of Belarus;
- protecting the domestic market;
- fulfilling international commitments.
The Agreement on the Customs Union between Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrghyzstan provides for the establishment of the single customs space of the said countries. The Customs Union is based on recognition of international norms and is oriented towards the principles of the World Trade Organisation. Customs duties, excises, quotas, licences and tariff and quantity restrictions concerning mutual trade have been annulled within the Union. Trade treatment conditions of the Union participants in relation to third countries have been fully coordinated. Customs control on internal borders was cancelled.
