100. In trade facilitation, BIMP-EAGA has pioneered in phasing the implementation of
relevant ASEAN programmes like ASEAN Single Window (ASW). The BIMP-EAGA
Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Security (CIQS)
Task Force was established in 2006 and has mapped gaps
and needed reforms in existing CIQS rules, regulations
and procedures against international standards and is
coming up with a Memorandum of Understanding on
CIQS Harmonisation to help achieve a streamlined and
simplified CIQS processes as well as standardising CIQS
agenda consonant with international and regional
standards and best practices. However, implementation of
CIQS reforms and trade facilitation programmes so far are
often challenged by varying levels of compliance with
international conventions and best practices both within
and between the member countries and are mainly built on
practical and short-gestating measures that are aligned
with national programmes and priorities.