SINGLE WINDOW TRADING
SYSTEM
traders may have had to contend with visits
A single window trade system enables
agencies in multiple locations in order to
international
to
obtain the necessary papers, permits and
submit regulatory documents at a single
clearance in order to complete their import
location
or export processes.
(cross-border)
and/or
documents
are
single
and dealings with multiple government
traders
entity.
typically
Such
customs
declarations, applications for import/export
permits, and other supporting documents
such as certificates of origin and trading
invoices. Partners in such a system could
There is no single definitive viewpoint of
what a single window trade system should
be. A common definition of the term "Single
Window" is:
"A facility that allows parties involved in
include:
trade and transport to lodge standardized
•
Beltraide
information and documents with a single
•
BAHA
entry point to fulfill all import, export, and
•
Ministry of Finance
transit-related regulatory requirements. If
•
Ministry of Agriculture
information is electronic then individual
•
The Port Authority
data elements should only be submitted
•
The Customs Brokers Association
once."
•
Belize Ports Limited
The concept is recognized and promoted by
•
The Customs Department
several
•
The Bureau of Standards
concerned with trade facilitation. Among
•
The Ministry of Health
these are the United Nations Economic
•
The Police Department
Commission for Europe (UNECE) and its
The main value proposition for having a
Single Window for a country or economy is
to increase the efficiency through time and
cost savings for traders in their dealings
with various government authorities for
obtaining
the
relevant
permit(s)
for
moving
national
or
economic
clearance
cargoes
borders.
organizations
that
are
Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic
Business (UN/CEFACT), World Customs
Organisation (WCO), SITPRO Limited of the
United Kingdom and the Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
and
It is recommended that Belize adopts such
across
as system to promote and enhance e-
In
a
traditional pre-Single Window environment,
Belize ICT National Strategy
world
Commerce including enhancing the revenue
collection system for government.
49