Cabinet approves MoU between India and Japan on Advanced Model Single Window

The Union Cabinet has approved the Memorandum of Understanding between India and Japan on Development of Advanced Model Single Window.

What is single-window system?

• The single-window systemis a trade facilitation As such, the implementation of a single window system enables international (cross-border) traders to submit regulatory documents at a single location and/or single entity.
• Such documents are typically customs declarations, applications for import/export permits, and other supporting documents such as certificates of origin and trading invoices. 

Benefits:

• For the government as a whole: increase in government revenue, enhanced compliance with rules, improved efficiency in resource allocation, better trade statistics,
• For economic operators, such as traders: faster clearance times, a more transparent and predictable process and less bureaucracy,
• For an administration such as Customs: improved staff productivity through the upgraded infrastructure, increase in customs revenue, a more structured and controlled working environment, and enhanced professionalism,
• For the national economy as a whole: improved transparency and governance and reduced corruption, due to fewer opportunities for physical interaction. 

Indian version:

• The MoU would lead to cooperation between India and Japan on the development of ‘Advanced Model Single Window’ and its operationalization in Central and State Governments in India for taking administrative procedures necessary for business operations,
• It aims to develop a structure in which those procedures are completed in an expeditious manner, so as to accelerate India’s effort to promote Ease of Doing Business in India.
• The ‘Advanced Model Single Window’ is based on the best practices in and outside India, with measurable parameters and identify possible obstacles for establishment of the Single Window in India. It will thus, facilitate investments.