Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Global health and trade agencies are introducing new customs codes designed to accelerate the movement of vaccines and medical supplies during future health emergencies.
The World Health Organisation says the update, developed with the World Trade Organisation and the World Customs Organization, will take effect on January 1, 2028, under the Harmonized System 2028.
The revised system introduces 38 new customs codes covering human vaccines and critical medical products, including protective equipment, ambulances and mobile clinics.
According to the agencies, the changes will help countries identify and clear priority health goods more quickly at borders, reducing delays during pandemics and other crises.
“The updated system will make it easier to track vaccine and medical product shipments worldwide,” the WHO says, adding that it will support faster and more coordinated emergency responses.
Used by more than 200 countries, the Harmonized System underpins global trade by setting tariffs and compiling statistics, making it essential for managing disrupted supply chains during health emergencies.
By expanding vaccine-specific codes, the new framework also improves access to global trade data, allowing governments to monitor vaccine flows and plan public health interventions more effectively.
WHO officials say the organisation contributed by assessing vaccines currently in use and those under development, underscoring how multilateral cooperation can align trade policy with health preparedness.
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