Skip to main content

Annex A - APEC Trade Facilitation Achievements

  • Faster Customs Clearances
    Faster customs clearances through direct electronic communication with Customs authorities without paperwork.

  • More Consistent Customs Valuations
    Standard procedures for more consistent and transparent customs valuations of traded goods.

  • Expanded E-Commerce and Paperless Trading
    Improved electronic access to markets for business and commitment to a goal of paperless trading by 2005 for developed and 2010 for developing economies, or as soon as possible thereafter.

  • Simplified Business Travel
    Simpler business travel with multiple entry visas, internet visa information and visa-free short-term entry via the APEC Business Travel Card.

  • Alignment of Standards for Food, Electrical, Machinery and Rubber Products
    Alignment of domestic standards with international standards for goods such as radios, televisions, videos, refrigerators, air-conditioners, rubber gloves and food labelling, by 2005.

  • Lower Cost of Trade in Electrical Equipment
    Lower cost of trade in electrical goods such as computers, toasters, televisions, radios and power-tools through a single test for conformity assessments.

  • Lower Cost of Trade in Telecommunications Equipment
    Lower cost of trade in telecommunications goods such as phones, faxes, modems, PABXs and radio transmitters, worth an estimated US$50 billion per year, through a single test for conformity assessments.

  • Simplified Sales of Telecommunications Services
    Simplified negotiation of telecommunications contracts and easier commercial access to telecommunication networks.

  • Less Risk for Investment in Energy Infrastructure
    Better informed investment decisions in energy infrastructure through the Manual of Best Practice Principles for Independent Power Producers and the Natural Gas Initiative.

  • Market Access Information for Architects, Engineers and Accountants
    Instant market access information for architects, engineers and accountants.

  • Less Waste in Fresh Seafood Trade
    Less wastage and shorter transport times for fresh seafood.

  • Better Y2K Preparedness
    Transparent Y2K preparedness, risk assessment and contingency planning.

  • Market Access Information
    Internet access to information on tariffs, investment, e-commerce, intellectual property, business travel, government procurement, business opportunities, marine ports and labour markets.