TASDEER of Qatar Development Bank champions Single Window System for effective export

The speakers gave an overview of the Qatar electronic Single Window System for customs clearance, its stages and its objectives and expanded on the advantages of such a system to the industry. Speakers also explained how the initiative will be strongly integrated with the Ministry of Interior and shared key statistics and figures that are of high importance to the businesses of all attendees.

Mr. Hassan Al Mansoori said: "The Single Window is a project which will bring major change to the Qatari trade standards. The General Directorate of Customs has introduced this system to replace the existing one with a modern, cutting-edge platform which helps to facilitate trade. The system is designed to improve the quality of performance in accordance with the global standards of the World Customs Organization and World Trade Organization (WTO) without prejudice to the security of the State and with revenues geared towards achieving customer satisfaction and transparency."

"QDB launched TASDEER in 2011 with the aim to promote and develop the non-oil exports from Qatar in international markets. Therefore, we are mandated with the overall growth of the industry and this can only happen when we invest steadfast efforts to craft and build services and platforms that transform our industry fundamentals, processes and systems into internationally-recognized export hubs. Therefore, we firmly believe that the Single Window System will play a significant enhancing role by reducing the documentary procedure to a record 5 minutes; reducing the proportions of preview from 70% to 5% by applying risk management system; and providing high-quality, value-added services to businesses in partnership with both the private and the public sectors." added Al Mansoori.

In August 2011, "TASDEER" initiated the first phase of the Single Window system, which was designed in 2009, in partnership with the General Administration of Customs and the Higher Council of Communication in Qatar, allowing therefore access to the world's highest international standards to facilitate trade and flow of goods. August 2011 also marked the trial phase for most services followed with the second phase in June 2012 linking with Government agencies. In December 2012 the operations started at all ports and an overall assessment of the situation is taking place.

The Single Window System brings export and government stakeholders a host of benefits. The system allows for electronic integration and connectivity furthering, thus, efficiency and transparency.

For instance, the system helps the Ministry of Interior with accurate and instant information on individuals, vehicles and companies; the relevant government bodies with pre-clearance before cargo arrival and quick release of restricted goods; and freight forwarders providing risk systems with information for goods imported.

At the level of other government agencies relating to customs duty, Single Window helps the Ministry of Trade match CR activity with imported materials and activates the role of Commissioner in the commercial register to confirm authorization for customs clearance. As for the Statistics Authority, the system provides reports and instant and accurate statistics matching with the global system. Single Window is, also, essential for instant information dissemination across all GCC ports.

Furthermore, Single Window paves way for integration with e-government systems featuring a high-quality government network connection, a 24/7 customer call centre, a personal smart card for state portal and a state-of-the-art payment system through credit cards, other bank cards or direct transfer to customs account.

Additionally, Single Window activates a proper and robust risk management system through selectivity and an electronic site designed to reduce time and effort, a subsequent audit to ensure the rights of both the state and the customers, pre-clearance to complete customs clearance procedure prior to the arrival of good and electronic surveillance to analyze and adjust processes or incorrect customs declarations.

Modern technology is also another attribute that is strongly embedded within the Single Window system. It introduces an electronic module for communications, electronic transmitters in the customs office, hardware scanners of customs and the integration of the entire system with infrared detectors.

Lastly, Single Window applies best global practices to ensure optimal quality of services. On that front, Single Window helps to build a cumulative base value together with a strong infrastructure for future expansions and the reduction of human error in data entry.

Al Mansoori concluded: "Our efforts to develop this superb system do not stop here. We are looking forward to receiving cooperation of the relevant government agencies in order to ensure the sustainable success of this promising project. We will also work hard with the various related authorities to keep raising the awareness amongst the local business community of this landmark advancement within the industry."