About SCCP

Terms of Reference
of the APEC Sub-Committee on Customs Procedures

(November 1994, Jakarta, Indonesia)

The SCCP, which reports to the APEC Committee on Trade and Investment (CTI), is charged with the mandate "to identify and pursue projects for regional enhancement of harmonized and simplified customs procedures; projects on enforcement matters related to trade facilitation; joint projects and linkages with business/private sector organizations related to trade facilitation; and projects which will contribute to the common development of human resources." In pursuit of these goals, the SCCP agreed to "cooperate with other APEC working groups and committees; APEC private sector groups; the World Customs Organization (WCO) and regional Customs organizations; other Asia/Pacific Customs Administrations; and relevant international organizations."

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SCCP Vision Statement

(June 1995, Sapporo, Japan)

"In keeping with the goals and directions provided by the Bogor Declaration of the APEC Economic Leaders to achieve free and open trade and investment in the Asia Pacific no later than the year 2010/2020, we, the Customs administrations of APEC, will cooperate in customs related matters, to the extent possible, and move to simplify and harmonize customs procedures to facilitate trade among APEC economies."

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SCCP Guiding Framework

(June 1995, Sapporo, Japan)

"In pursuing the above vision, we will recognize the different interests and diversity of Customs administrations in the region; recognize the importance of focused assistance and the need to pursue all opportunities for cooperation; consult with the private sector; coordinate our work with the World Trade Organization (WTO), WCO and other Customs fora, while avoiding duplication of work; recognize constraints in personnel and financial resources; and ensure that our work is focused and kept current."