On May 19, 2025, a significant milestone in trade facilitation was achieved when the Commerce & Economic Development Bureau of Hong Kong and the General Administration of Customs (GACC) of the Mainland signed the Cooperation Arrangement on Single Window. This agreement is designed to streamline trade processes between Hong Kong and the Mainland, reflecting the growing interdependence of their economies.
The signing ceremony was officiated by Algernon Yau, the Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development, and Sun Meijun, the Minister of the GACC. Their collaboration underscores the importance of enhancing trade efficiency, particularly given the substantial volume of goods traded between the two regions. The Single Window initiative introduces a centralized electronic platform that allows traders to submit various types of documents necessary for trade declaration and cargo clearance through a single point. This innovation is expected to significantly reduce the administrative burden on businesses, making the trade process smoother and more efficient.
The arrangement aims to foster better collaboration and interconnectivity between the systems of Hong Kong and the Mainland. By improving existing mechanisms for information exchange and cooperation, the agreement paves the way for exploring new areas of collaboration. This is particularly crucial in a global trade environment where efficiency and speed are paramount.
The implementation of the Single Window in Hong Kong has been strategically phased. The first two phases, which encompass 42 types of trade documents, have been fully operational since 2020 and 2023, respectively. These phases have already laid a solid foundation for the upcoming enhancements. Phase 3 services are set to be introduced in stages starting from 2026, further expanding the capabilities of the Single Window system.
In a complementary effort, the GACC and the Customs & Excise Department of Hong Kong launched the Mainland-Hong Kong “Single Submission for Dual Declaration” Scheme in 2024. This scheme is particularly relevant for all cargo imported from the Mainland via land boundary control points. Its primary objective is to streamline the declaration process, reducing the time and manpower required for enterprises while also minimizing operating costs.
Effective from the same date as the signing of the Cooperation Arrangement, May 19, 2025, the “Single Submission for Dual Declaration” Scheme allows industry stakeholders to reuse road cargo information when submitting declarations to both Hong Kong and Mainland systems. This integration is expected to enhance efficiency and reduce redundancy in the declaration process, making it easier for businesses to navigate the regulatory landscape.
The significance of these initiatives cannot be overstated. With the trade volume between Hong Kong and the Mainland being substantial, the Single Window and the “Single Submission for Dual Declaration” Scheme are poised to transform the way trade is conducted. By simplifying procedures and reducing the administrative load, these measures will not only benefit traders but also contribute to the overall economic growth of both regions.
As the global trade landscape continues to evolve, the cooperation between Hong Kong and the Mainland serves as a model for how regions can work together to enhance trade facilitation. The commitment to improving interconnectivity and collaboration is a testament to the forward-thinking approach of both governments.
In conclusion, the signing of the Cooperation Arrangement on Single Window marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between Hong Kong and the Mainland. With the phased implementation of the Single Window and the introduction of the “Single Submission for Dual Declaration” Scheme, both regions are taking significant steps towards a more efficient and streamlined trade environment. As these initiatives roll out, they are expected to yield substantial benefits for traders, ultimately fostering a more robust economic partnership.
