Implementation of the Japan–Singapore Mutual Recognition Arrangement

In June 2011 Singapore Customs signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with Japan Customs to enhance global supply chain security and facilitate the movement of legitimate goods between the two countries.

The MRA took effect from 1 August 2011 and as part of the MRA, Singapore’s Secure Trade Partnership-Plus (STP-Plus) and Japan’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) companies will be recognised as being of lower risk and subsequently can enjoy a higher level of facilitation at clearance in both countries.

In order to enjoy the benefits of the MRA, Singapore’s importers should request for the unique “Japan AEO code” from Japan’s AEO exporters and input it in their import declarations to Singapore Customs via Tradenet. Similarly, Singapore’s STP-Plus exporters should provide their unique “STP-Plus code” to Japan’s importers for their import declarations to Japan’s Customs when exporting to Japan.

If the permit declarations are outsourced to declaration agents, the code should be provided to them in order to enjoy the facilitation during import and export clearance.

If you would like to discuss any of the issues raised, please get in touch with any of the PwC contacts listed here.