11 November 2020 –
Singapore Customs and the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) on 10 November 2020 to explore Single Window connectivity to facilitate cargo clearance and enhance supply chain security. The LOI was signed electronically via a videoconference between Deputy Director-General, Singapore Customs, Mr Lim Teck Leong and Executive Assistant Commissioner of the United States Customs and Border Protection, Ms Brenda Smith.
With the signing of the LOI, Singapore Customs and CBP would explore the exchange and re-use of trade data via a system link-up between both countries’ trade platforms to bring about greater trade facilitation. The exchange of trade data would facilitate customs declarations by the business community and allow both Customs administrations to better conduct advance risk assessment.
“The signing of this LOI signifies the first step towards trade data connectivity between the two Customs administrations, and reinforces our commitment to maintain the security of international supply chains, while facilitating legitimate trade,” said Mr Lim.
“We value the opportunity for transparency and cooperation that a shared Single Window will bring,” said Brenda Smith, Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP’s Office of Trade. “Government-to-government data sharing is rapidly becoming an important component of efficient and secure trade, and CBP looks forward to working with Singapore Customs on this forward thinking approach to trade facilitation.”
Under this initiative, Singapore Customs and CBP will start to explore interoperability of their national single window systems through data mapping and sharing of technical competencies. A pilot trial may be carried out between Singapore and the United States, with the results being used to refine the system linkage.
The collaboration between Singapore Customs and CBP is part of Singapore’s efforts to enhance digital trade connectivity. Singapore Customs is also working on bilateral Single Window connectivity initiatives with our counterparts in Australia, China, Indonesia and the Netherlands.
About Singapore Customs Singapore Customs – a department under the Ministry of Finance – is the lead agency for trade facilitation and revenue enforcement.
We facilitate Singapore’s external trade, through collaboration with government agencies and businesses, robust regulations and effective enforcement.
Our vision is to be a leading Customs that advances Singapore’s economy by protecting revenue, and making trade easy, fair and secure