XML Schemas first announced in June 2001 have now been published by the Uniform Code Council and are publicly available for download. This initial distribution "contains Version 1.0 of the global voluntary standards for the exchange of electronic business documents using Extensible Markup Language (XML) within the EAN.UCC System. The EAN.UCC System, created by the Uniform Code Council (UCC), with EAN International (EAN), includes the specifications, standards, and guidelines for eCommerce. The EAN.UCC System enables companies of any size, industry, or geography to communicate in the Global Language of Business. This publication was developed through a consensus of interested parties conforming to the global UCC Standards Management Process. The schema development was based on Business Process Models and the principles of simple electronic business (Simpl-eb), in order to simplify the business processes independent from syntax and technology. It includes the following information: Core Party, Core Item, FMCG Item Extension, Core Order, Request for Payment, Allowance-Charge Extension, Payment Terms Extension, Simple Despatch Advice, Party Banking Information, Party Pallet System, Simple Invoice Extension, and Relationship Dependent Data."

From the announcement: "The Uniform Code Council, Inc. (UCC), EAN International, and the Global Commerce Initiative (GCI), have announced the release of the world's first open, global standards for Extensible Markup Language (XML) schemas. Jointly developed by the UCC and EAN International, and based on the GCI's Global Commerce Internet Protocol, these standards will provide users with a global language of e-business to conduct efficient Internet-based electronic commerce. The EAN.UCC XML Schemas launched today specify five key business transactions: Item Alignment, Party Alignment, Order, Despatch Advice, and Invoice, as well as extensions for Allowances and Charges and Payment Terms. This breakthrough achievement will provide global users in all industries with an open e-business solution that can fully and efficiently exploit the power, speed, and reach of the Internet. The XML standards were developed with strong user involvement and global support, including GCI member companies. The UCC and EAN International developed this first suite of XML standards to be the foundation of a global, multi-industry solution that will enable all companies to streamline their e-business processes via improved interoperability and efficient data transmission."

The UCC Information Technical Assessment Group (ITAG). ITAG is "(1) to develop and maintain EDI guidelines and supporting documentation (UCS, VICS EDI, I/C, and EANCOM); (2) develop and maintain XML schemas, schema guidelines and data dictionaries; (3) maintain consistency of EDI guidelines and XML standards across business functions and industry sectors; (4) insure that common business functionality exists in all standards -- X12-based standards, EANCOM and XML standards."