Recommendation No. 33 - 2020 Edition

Within the context of this Recommendation, a Single Window is defined as a facility providing trade facilitation that allows parties involved in trade and transport to lodge standardized information and documents with a single entry point to fulfill all import, export, and transit-related regulatory requirements. Individual data elements should only be submitted once electronically. In practical terms, the Single Window aims to expedite and simplify information flows between the private sector and the public sector and bring meaningful gains to all parties involved in cross-border trade. The Single Window is generally managed centrally by a lead agency, enabling the appropriate governmental authorities and agencies to receive or have access to the information relevant for their purpose. In addition, participating authorities and agencies should coordinate their controls. In some cases, the Single Window may provide facilities for payment of relevant duties, taxes and fees.