Introduction

Recognizing the fact that benefits such as improved trade efficiency will be gained from implementing paperless trade, a number of Asian and Pacific countries, such as the Republic of Korea and Singapore, have already introduced paperless trade systems. A recent survey carried out by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), as part of the Asia-Pacific Trade Facilitation Forum (APTFF) 2012, revealed the readiness of the region to make a transition to a paperless trade environment. Ninety-two per cent of the responding countries had an automated customs system in place, either nationwide or in major ports and/or airports.

Related Subject(s): International Trade and Finance