60 An exploration of the need for and cost of selected trade facilitation measures in Asia and the Pacific in the context of the WTO negotiations
Factors perceived as most problematic in conducting trade are, in order of importance:
delay in inspection and release of goods; customs valuation; tariff classification; technical
and sanitary requirements.
Respondents indicated the following TF measures be given priority: elimination of
bribery and other corrupt practices of customs personnel; timely and comprehensive
publication and discrimination of trade rules and regulations; establishment of an advance
ruling system.
Although they are not directly related with TF, respondents gave high priority in
human resource development and infrastructure development for trade facilitation.
Cost of TF Needs
Despite the difficulty to estimate cost of trade facilitation measures, a very crude
estimate is calculated at USD 34 million, which may need revision.
WTO Negotiations on TF
The WTO members on various aspects of Trade Facilitation have submitted a large
number of proposals. Some of them are already in practice in Nepal, hence should be
easily acceptable to it. Some others are difficult to implement due to resource constraints
and can be accepted on best endeavor basis only.
Member countries need to be cautious and make concerted efforts to arrive at
a consensus on the adoption of TF measures, beneficial to all and affordable by member
countries. All countries need to subscribe a basic package and adopt a gradual
implementation mechanism from simple to advanced measures.