How easy is it to facilitate trade

1. INTRODUCTION

In a general sense, the term “Trade facilitation” refers to the simplification, harmonization, facilitation and acceleration of all processes at the stage from the production of the good to the consumer to the moment it reaches the end user.

The concept, as specified in “Trade Facilitation Agreement” prepared by the World Trade Organization; especially covers simplification, harmonization, standardization and automation in import, export and Transit Customs and foreign trade operations conducted by other agencies and organizations that are involved in international procedures. Within this framework, the elimination of unnecessary work and repetition of operations in foreign trade operations; application of “Electronic Payment”, “Risk Management”, “control”, “Single Window”, “pre-arrival processing” and “economic operator” especially in delivery of the goods and customs clearance; reduction of operations costs; increase reliability and ensuring transparency in trade practices; development of infrastructure on foreign trade; ensuring impartiality and non-discrimination in the processes; creation of effective co-operation between border authorities, has been identified as the main targets of the agreement.