Case studies and other information

The factual impacts of sound operating Single Window environments have been appreciated by several governments. Increasingly Single Window environments are considered not only as one of the main toolkits to implement trade facilitation measures, but also powerful instrument for the overall implementation of national trade policies.

A “Single Window Environment” (SWE) is a cross border, ‘intelligent’, facility that allows parties involved in trade and transport to lodge standardized information, mainly electronic, with a single entry point to fulfill all import, export and transit related regulatory requirements.

The WCO members prefer to use the term “Environment” as it highlights the systemic nature of the Single Window as a network of interdependent facilities of cross-border regulatory agencies and other stakeholders. Enabled digital cooperation through the Single Window may leverage quality services in the course of interaction between trade and government.

The establishment of the Single Window Environment enhances as well border control procedures for passengers, crews, goods and conveyance contributing to ensure supply chain security and society protection.

A Single Window Environment undoubtedly entails a complex technical ground, however other non IT dimensions related to policy, legal and administrative frameworks should be taken into consideration at the planning stage of a SW initiative.

A good way to develop understanding about a Single Window Environment is to examine the various initiatives that have been launched around the world. These provide a broad picture about different possible technical approaches to Single Window.

It is clear that data harmonization and business process re-engineering are key pieces in any such endeavor.

The following is a collection of links that lead to information on Single Window initiatives that are presently under various stages of implementation.