ARTICLE 7 Simplification, Standardisation and Harmonisation of Trade Information and Documentation 1. The Partner States agree to simplify their trade documentation and procedures in order to facilitate trade in goods within the Community. 2. Subject to the provisions of Article 6 of this Protocol, the Partner States agree to design and standardise their trade information and documentation in accordance with internationally accepted standards, taking into account the use of electronic data processing systems in order to ensure the efficient and effective application of the provisions of this Protocol. 3. For purposes of this Article: (a) a customs data bank shall be established at the Secretariat; and (b) the Partner States hereby agree to adopt the Harmonised Customs Documentation to be specified in the customs law of the Community. ARTICLE 8 Commodity Description and Coding System 1. The Partner States agree to harmonise their customs nomenclature and standardise their foreign trade statistics to ensure comparability and reliability of the relevant information. 2. The Partner States hereby adopt the Harmonised Commodity Description and Coding System specified in Annex I to this Protocol. ARTICLE 9 Prevention, Investigation and Suppression of Customs Offences 1. The Partner States agree to co-operate in the prevention, investigation and suppression of customs offences within their territories. 12