HK, Mainland sign deal to boost trade via Single Window system

The system rolls out in three phases.

Hong Kong’s Commerce & Economic Development Bureau and the Mainland’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) has signed a cooperation agreement to enhance trade through the Single Window system.

Commerce & Economic Development Secretary Algernon Yau and GACC Minister Sun Meijun signed the deal, which aims to improve coordination and system connectivity between the two sides.

The Single Window is an electronic platform that allows traders to submit documents for trade declarations and cargo clearance. Yau said the new arrangement will strengthen system integration, improve efficiency, and expand cooperation.

The platform is being introduced in three phases. The first two phases, launched in 2020 and 2023, support 42 types of trade documents. Phase 3 will begin rolling out in 2026.

Earlier this year, the GACC and Hong Kong’s Customs & Excise Department launched the “Single Submission for Dual Declaration” Scheme.

It covers all cargo entering Hong Kong from the Mainland through land control points and allows traders to reuse data across both customs systems, saving time and reducing costs. This scheme will be integrated into Phase 3 of the Single Window.