Improving connectivity is one of the major goals of BIMP-EAGA and in 2007, the subregion moved closer to achieving this goal. The member countries signed three landmark transport agreements including the “open skies” agreement that granted fifth freedom traffic rights to major international airports, facilitating the cross-border movement of buses and coaches, and strengthening sea transport linkages. These agreements are important steps to establishing a subregional multi-modal transport network to support the freer movement of people and goods across borders thereby increasing trade and tourism within the subregion.
Complementing the transport initiatives is the ongoing effort to strengthen cooperation in trade facilitation by streamlining and simplifying customs, immigration, quarantine and security procedures at BIMP-EAGA ports and border crossings.
These transport and trade facilitation measures are vital steps in the overall effort to integrate BIMP-EAGA’s infrastructure into dynamic economic corridors in BIMP-EAGA.