Dagang Net to run EDI system

Published by Business Times

THE Government has retained Dagang Net Technologies Sdn Bhd as the sole service provider for Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), a paperless Customs clearance system.

International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Rafidah Aziz did not elaborate, but it was reported that Dagang Net had early last year applied for an extension to its 15-year concession.

The original concession to run the exclusive electronic linkage to the Customs on matters involving import and export declaration and clearance had expired in September 2004.

Rafidah said a single service provider will ensure a more productive, speedier and cost-efficient process for the clearance of documentation and cargo.

“Miti (Ministry of International Trade and Industry) has established a committee comprising representatives of relevant government agencies as well as users to continuously monitor and improve the performance of the (EDI) system,” she said at her ministry’s annual dialogue with various industries in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Rafidah said as the country got engaged in FTAs (free trade agreements) at the regional and bilateral levels, the dynamics of competition will change and become more intense.

“In this regard, it is imperative that the private sector, especially industry associations, contribute feedback and ideas to ensure that all interests are taken into consideration during negotiations.”

She urged the private sector to provide relevant data and suggestions that will enhance national competitiveness in the face of the FTAs and other trade and investment liberalisation incen- tives.

“While trade negotiations are conducted by governments, the private sector can facilitate by reaching a common understanding with their FTA counterparts.”

Rafidah said investments in the manufacturing and manufacturing-related services sectors totalled RM31.1 billion last year. Of this, RM28.7 billion was for the manufacturing sector.

Foreign direct investments in the sector amounted to RM13.1 billion in 583 projects for a 46 per cent of the total approved investments.