The ASEAN Member States (AMS) have agreed to adopt the World Customs Organization (WCO) Data Model as a tool to assist the development of Customs procedures that would enhance trade facilitation.

In the 1st ASEAN Single Window (ASW) Technical Working Group (TWG) – WCO Consultation which coincides with the 20th Meeting of the Working Group on Technical Matters, the members discussed the adoption of WCO Data Model as part of their future work and collaboration with the WCO.

WCO Data Model is an optimized electronic data exchange providing a global standard for cross-border data requirements for the release and clearance of goods. This procedure aims to cut on costs and time for both the government and the stakeholders.

WCO Data Model also promotes the implementation of a Single Window as it allows the reporting of information to all government agencies through the unique way it organizes regulatory information.

Philippines Bureau of Customs (BOC) Director Kissinger V. Reyes of MISTG, Mr. Reginaldo P. Linang of MISTG/BOC, and Director Angelica Sarmiento of IT/DOF attended the ASW meeting.

“It was agreed that ASEAN would maintain the ASEAN Data sets and submit Data Maintenance Requests (DMRs) to the WCO for data requirements of ASEAN not covered by the WCO Data Model,” Director Reyes said.

Reyes added that Information sharing among the Ten (10) ASEAN Member States is a key part for the ASW to be successful.

The WCO Data Model is based on the Revised Kyoto Convention which requires customs administrations to request minimal data to ensure compliance with customs laws.

Aside from the adoption of WCO Data Model, the members also tackled the Training for the Administration of the ASW Portal and updates on Enhanced trade facilitation with AMS.

The ASW Meeting was held on 4-7 September 2012 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.