The Legal Guide is to be developed as per the decision of the Parties to the Framework Agreement on Facilitation of Cross-border Paperless Trade in Asia and the Pacific (CPTA) during the 2nd Meeting of the Standing Committee. Paragraph 16 of the report states: “The Standing Committee requested the secretariat to prepare a draft guide on engaging in cross-border paperless trade taking into account regional and international laws and regulations and best practices as appropriate. The draft guide will be presented at the next regular session of the Standing Committee for its review and consideration.” This meeting will provide an opportunity to review the draft Legal Guide. The Legal Guide is being drafted by Mr. John Gregory, lead expert and consultant, based on the concept note that was discussed during the 1st meeting. We will circulate the draft Legal Guide one week prior to the EGM so that you have time to review and discuss it at the EGM accordingly.
Based on the comments received during the EGM and prior to (if you cannot attend, you are still welcome to provide comments via email prior to the meeting), the Legal Guide will be revised, and then presented at the 3rd Standing Committee meeting of the Framework Agreement on 3-5 June 2024.