Some customs clearance systems altered from this year

The trade surplus for 2001 will shrink to 8 billion won, predicted the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Economy. According to MOCIE, exports will record a 10% increase because nobody can see how the international economy will go. Imports also are expected to increase 13% due to weakening domestic demand.

This year, new types of trading may appear as Inchon international airport opens and inter-Korean business accelerates.

Outwardly, MOICE will actively supply logistic flows through international organizations such as the WCO, WTO, and APEC, while trying to simplify custom clearance procedures.

First of all to accomplish this it will pursue unifying manifests (M/F) and a advance declarations for unloading.

Second, direct unloading in quays will be expanded upon, with the old Pusan pier and the Port of Pyoungtaek being under consideration for it. For this system, a simple examination center will be settled within the quay; otherwise a container yard will be designated for it.

Third, the customs clearance system will be transferred to a paperless system.

Lastly, ocean import export cargo processes that use railways will be simplified, and when the whole customs clearance process is unveiled, immediate custom clearance will be introduced for express cargo delivery amongst others.