The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has partnered with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) to explore paperless trade data exchange.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said the partnership is in line with the ongoing efforts of the bureau to promote and advance the trade facilitation agenda among relevant stakeholders.

“On behalf of the Bureau of Customs, I convey our commitment to facilitating trade and ensuring the efficient and effective movement of goods across borders,” Rubio said.

Recently, the BOC through its National Trade Facilitation Champions and UN ESCAP held a joint consultative session to get valuable inputs for the feasibility study on the electronic exchange of trade-related data and documents in the Philippines.

The partnership between the BOC and UN ESCAP falls under the Framework Agreement on Facilitation of Cross-border Paperless Trade in Asia and the Pacific (CPTA).

Rubio said the study aims to expedite the implementation of digital trade facilitation measures for trade and development between ESCAP and the Philippine customs.

The feasibility study also delves into a comprehensive analysis of the technological capabilities, legal frameworks, and operational requirements necessary for the implementation of electronic trade data exchange.

Furthermore, it aims to identify potential challenges and risks and develop effective strategies to mitigate them.

Rubio recognized the support of the UN ESCAP in implementing the Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of Cross-Border Paperless Trade in Asia and the Pacific, as well as ongoing collaboration.

“We believe that the implementation of paperless trade will not only help us achieve these objectives but also enhance transparency and reduce expenses,” Rubio said.