The National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) held a significant meeting at the Gateway Hotel, focusing on the development and implementation of the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Electronic Single Window System. The meeting saw active participation from various departments and agencies, underscoring the collaborative efforts toward enhancing trade facilitation in the country.
The meeting was chaired by the Chief Commissioner of Customs, David Towe, who also serves as the NTFC Chair. In his opening remarks, he acknowledged the attendees from different departments and agencies, expressing gratitude for their dedication and participation. The Chief Commissioner extended special thanks to the Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru, highlighting the privilege of working with him and recognizing his support. He also mentioned the recent endorsement of the submission made to the National Executive Council (NEC), decision number 149/2024, which is a crucial step forward for the implementation of the PNG Electronic Single Window System.
The Chief Commissioner outlined the way forward, emphasizing the importance of the discussions and development plans made during the meeting. He reiterated the commitment to the successful implementation of the Electronic Single Window System, which aims to streamline and simplify trade processes, enhancing efficiency and transparency.
Furthermore, Mr. Andrew Munap, Assistant Director for Trade Policy and Facilitation Division at the National Trade Office, delivered remarks on behalf of the Chief Trade Officer. He provided an insightful overview of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreements and Notification, stressing the critical importance of compliance with the 13 articles under the Trade Facilitation Provisions for every WTO member country.
Mr. Munap specifically emphasized articles 1 and 2, which mandate that every agency or department must maintain a website to share information and publish changes or law updates for public awareness. “With the National Trade Office, we have the Trade Portal, a dedicated website where we publish information for the public to see,” Mr. Munap stated. He further elaborated on the remaining 12 articles, underlining the necessity for transparency and effective communication in trade facilitation.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the collective commitment to advancing PNG’s trade facilitation efforts and the implementation of the Electronic Single Window System. The NTFC remains dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment and driving initiatives that contribute to the growth and development of trade in Papua New Guinea.
