The meeting with CHK in Xayaburi was mainly about new import process for general cargo at Khenthao border. Previously, goods have been imported into Laos by using Temporary Import Declaration and it takes more than 3 weeks to complete the whole process. For the new process, CHK will complete import declaration (IM4) before cargo can be delivered to site. This will shorten the time CHK has to terminate Temporary Import Declaration and complete the IM4. However, it will take more time – roughly 10 days – to prepare import documents. This will probably have some effect on shipment preparation, especially for goods transit from overseas.
Please find attached flowchart comparing current and new process which I made based on information received during the meeting and flowchart received from CHK (also attached) . Form the flowchart, you may notice that it will required at least 10 days more after receiving import approval prior to importation.
As announced by CHK, the new process will be implemented on April 1st, 2015 which is the first day we can collect OCR form from CHK Thali. Therefore, this new process will be applied to shipments scheduled to arrive LCB/BKK after first week of April (Considering lead time of the new process which import approval should be available at least 10 days before importation) So, if shipment schedule is available, please share to us for proper preparation.