This report delivers an in-depth analysis of operational certification procedures (OCPs) across a range of Asian free trade agreements (FTAs).
It covers selected FTAs of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) including the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), ASEAN+1 agreements with dialogue partners, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), as well as other major FTAs such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and agreements with the European Union and the United States. By examining how variations in certification requirements affect trade facilitation, the report highlights opportunities for adopting best practices, such as the use of electronic certificates of origin and self-certification. It serves as a guide for policymakers and businesses in navigating the complexities of certification while outlining actionable reforms to enhance regional trade efficiency through streamlined, business-friendly OCPs.