The International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD), in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat, the Department of Foreign Trade (Ministry of Commerce, Thailand), the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, and the Trade and Industry Department (TID) of Hong Kong SAR, organized the second phase of a study visit under the project “Enhancing AHKFTA Utilization through Harmonized and Sustainable Operations in the Digital Era” during 5 – 9 August 2024, at Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China.
The onsite visit took place in Hong Kong SAR, China, and aimed to observe the processes behind the issuance of AHKFTA Certificates of Origin (Form AHK) and customs procedures, promoting information exchange between ASEAN member states and Hong Kong. The study visit featured both online and onsite activities, including workshops, site visits, and knowledge exchange sessions. All participants had participated in activities from 6-8 August 2024.
On 6 August 2024, participants visited the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, where they were welcomed by Ms. Chiang Yee Lee, Head of Port and Maritime Command. Presentations were delivered on the customs clearance process for marine cargo, led by Ms. Sallie Ngo and Mr. Ban S P Chan, Senior Inspector of Hong Kong Customs.
On 7 August 2024, participants visited the Trade and Industry Department, Hong Kong, China, where Mr. Benson Bin, Trade Officer, provided insights into the processes of issuing Certificates of Origin (CoO) and e-CoO. Discussions focused on the similarities and differences in CoO issuance among ASEAN countries, paving the way for future e-CoO alignment across the region.
On 8 August 2024, the activities concluded with a group discussion on future action plans and coordination for AHKFTA members, led by Project Expert (Dr. Rajan Sudesh Ratna) and Project Consultant (Dr. Faisal Ahmed). The participants, representing 11 countries (10 ASEAN member states and Hong Kong SAR), developed a draft roadmap for enhancing the harmonization of CoO issuance and customs procedures.
Later, Mr. Supakit Chareonkul, Executive Director, ITD concluded this event with delivering a closing remarks and giving certificates to the 35 participants, highlighting the significance of strengthening trade facilitation and digital trade cooperation between ASEAN and Hong Kong. The initiative aims to enhance regional investment opportunities, promote sustainable economic growth, and foster greater integration through the ASEAN-Hong Kong Free Trade Agreement (AHKFTA).
