ASEM vows crackdown on harmful toys, dubious spare parts

The 11th meeting of the Asia Europe Meeting of Customs Directors General-Commissioners (ASEM) has adopted 'Goa Declaration', a policy document which will set the action plan for customs commissioners in Europe and Asia with a resolve to act against the trade of harmful toys and dubious vehicle spare parts among other things.
India's proposal for going paperless was adopted by the body of customs administrations of more than 53 countries across Asia and Europe.
Briefing media at the conclusion of the meeting which was attended by more than 41 of the 53 member states, Chairman of Central Board of Customs and Central Excise Customs Najeeb Shah said the declaration would function as a very broad action plan to facilitate trade among the member nations.

"There was a proposal to conduct a joint customs operation on commodities of particular interest like pesticides, spare parts for automobiles, motorcycles, airplanes, trains and boats as well as toys which are made with harmful paint," Shah added.
India's proposal for increased collaboration among customs administrations of member states through paperless administration has also been adopted, Shah said, adding that the move was in tune with 'Digital India' push.
During the Meeting, India and Korea signed a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) to facilitate the Scheme of Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) for boosting international trade and faster customs clearances between two countries.

The 12th ASEM Meeting will be hosted by Germany in 2017 in Berlin.