The Trial Run of the Early Harvest Implementation of GMS Cross-Border Transport Facilitation Agreement
The successful completion of the trial run under the 'Early Harvest' (EH) implementation of GMS Cross-Border Transport Facilitation Agreement (CBTA) from June 22-27, 2024, marked a historic milestone in GMS cooperation. The convoy, consisting of five semi-trailer trucks and two buses, traveled from Kunming, the People’s Republic of China (PRC), to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, via Lao PDR and Thailand, covering approximately 5,000 kilometers round-trip.
This groundbreaking journey demonstrated the first-ever operations of PRC vehicles in Thailand and Cambodia, and the first transit operation from PRC to Cambodia using present customs transit systems in Lao PDR and Thailand. Despite challenges such as varying border crossing efficiencies and infrastructure quality, the trial run comprehensively tested the CBTA framework, confirming the effectiveness of EH Permits and Temporary Admission Documents (TADs).
The implications of this achievement are far-reaching, signaling a new era of enhanced regional connectivity and trade facilitation. Moving forward, GMS countries have outlined key next steps, including aligning transport and customs standards, and improving infrastructure. These efforts aim to build upon the lessons learned and continue strengthening cross-border transport facilitation in the region, ultimately fostering economic growth and cooperation among GMS countries.
On June 22, 2024, the trial run was officially launched in Kunming, PRC. The launch ceremony marked the beginning of a groundbreaking journey which continued for 6 days until June 27.
The event commenced with a Launch Workshop, chaired by H.E. Mr. Litta Khattiya, Vice-Minister of Public Works and Transport from Lao PDR, and co-chaired by H.E. Mr. Li Yang, Vice-Minister of Transport, PRC. Representatives from all GMS countries and participating transport operators gathered to discuss the implementation of the CBTA 2024 Work Plan and preparations for the trial run.
During the workshop, GMS secretariat provided updates on recent CBTA activities, including the extension of the Early Harvest Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) until December 31, 2026. GMS countries reported on their readiness to issue permits and TADs, while also highlighting the need for aligning vehicle standards and regulations across the region.
The launch ceremony itself was a vibrant affair, with speeches delivered by high-ranking officials, including the Vice Governor of Yunnan Province. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as a fleet of five trucks and two buses, adorned with 'Early Harvest' livery, prepared to embark on their journey. The total value of the cargo carried by the trucks was approximately US$ 50,000, with a combined gross vehicle weight of around 170 tonnes.
As colored flares lit up the sky and vehicle horns sounded, the convoy set off on its 5,000-kilometer round trip to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This moment not only symbolized the beginning of the trial run but also represented a new chapter in GMS connectivity and cooperation, promising to boost cross-border trade and transport facilitation in the region.
The journey began in Kunming, PRC. After the launch workshop and ceremony, the fleet departed for Mojiang. On the second day, the convoy traveled from Mojiang to Mohan in PRC, crossing the border into Boten, Lao PDR. The third day saw the group move from Boten to Houayxay in Lao PDR, then cross into Chiang Khong, Thailand. On the fourth day, they traveled within Thailand from Chiang Khong to Tak, followed by a journey from Tak to Aranyaprathet on the fifth day. The sixth day marked the final border crossing, moving from Aranyaprathet, Thailand into Poipet, Cambodia, and then on to Phnom Penh for the arrival ceremony.
This groundbreaking expedition saw PRC vehicles operating in Thailand and Cambodia. The trucks transported a variety of goods, including vegetables, furniture, office supplies, and flower arranging foam, demonstrating the practical applications of the new cross-border transport agreement.
Throughout the journey, the convoy encountered both successes and challenges. While the overall infrastructure was generally good, bad road conditions in some sections deterred the journey. Border crossing procedures varied in efficiency, with processing times ranging from less than an hour to around six hours.
The trial run highlighted several areas for improvement, including the need for better coordination with local shipping agents and customs brokers, alignment of vehicle standards across countries, and streamlining of border crossing procedures. Despite these challenges, the spirit of cooperation among GMS countries was evident, with officials working diligently to facilitate the convoy's passage.
The CBTA 'Early Harvest' Trial Run concluded with an Arrival Ceremony in Phnom Penh on June 27, 2024, followed by a Debriefing Workshop the next morning. The ceremony celebrated the successful completion of the historic journey and the strengthened ties between GMS countries.
On June 28, delegates gathered for the Debriefing Workshop, hosted by Mr. Pen Boran, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Cambodia. The workshop provided a platform for participants to share experiences, discuss challenges, and propose solutions for future implementation of the CBTA.
GMS secretariat presented a comprehensive overview of the trial run, highlighting key achievements and lessons learned. Country delegates then offered their perspectives, with common themes emerging around the need for improved infrastructure, aligned regulations, and enhanced border processing efficiency. As the workshop came to a close, participants expressed their commitment to building on the success of this initial trial run.
The Trial Run and subsequent workshop demonstrated that while challenges remain, the foundation for enhanced regional connectivity and trade has been firmly established, paving the way for continued cooperation and economic growth in the Greater Mekong Subregion.
Last Updated: 10 October 2024