Shenzhen takes lead in implementing CEPA
( 2003-07-01 16:33) (Xinhua)
An automatic customs checking and clearance system to facilitate vehicle
traffic between Shenzhen and neighboring Hong Kong came into force Monday,
marking the first step in implementing the trade pact reached Sunday between
Hong Kong and the mainland.
Zou Zhiwu, director of the Shenzhen customs office, said a series of measures
were being prepared as part of the effort to fulfill the Closer Economic
Partnership Arrangement (CEPA), which focuses on goods and services trade, and
the facilitation of both trade and investment between mainland and Hong Kong.
It is understood that the automatic system, installed at the Huanggang
customs point, takes just five seconds to process each vehicle, either for entry
or exit, raising efficiency 20-fold.
By the end of this year, similar systems will be installed at two other
customs points.
Zou said the Shenzhen customs office will seek to further increase transit
efficiency with the Customs and Exercise Department of Hong Kong through the
exchange of electronic information and data, advanced technology, and better
management.
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