Asean focusing on non-tariff barrier removal

COMPANIES can look forward to more seamless customs procedures as Asean member countries continue to work together towards greater economic integration, said Minister for Trade and Industry Lim Hng Kiang.

As part of efforts towards realising the Asean Economic Community by 2015, Asean countries have made progress with virtually all goods now moving throughout the region tariff-free. The next priority will be removing non-tariff barriers, improving trade facilitation as well as harmonising standards so that businesses can run in a stable environment.

"Asean countries are working hard to put in place and harmonise Asean-wide trade facilitation initiatives," said Mr Lim in his speech at the Asean Business Club (ABC) Forum on Monday. "These include a self-certification system, which will allow exporters to certify export documents on their own."