International Convention Center at Furama Resort, Da Nang

APEC family gathered together

In the morning, ABAC working groups will continue to hold meetings respectively. The main topics for the Facilitation Working Group Meeting include: 1. labor mobility & supply chain logistics; 2. customs procedures; 3. the establishment of ABTC information service platform.

With regard to ABTC, ABAC at the BMG meetings held in Singapore on July 31, August 1, 2 and 3, 2009 requested BMG to enhance the functions of the ABTC as follows: 1. by expanding the coverage beyond the APEC region, and 2. by launching “Business Facilitation Program” to provide information service platform for ABTC holders. However, BMG Chair pointed out that it would be suitable for CTI to take charge of this issue because of its political sensitivity. He also suggested that it should require careful consideration in terms of the private information protection. Meanwhile, Australia submitted a proposal to BMG that the construction of ABTC platform should be undertaken by some selected private companies so that it would be practical to provide business facilitation service for cardholders. The proposed services include discounted hotel room rate, discounts at duty free retailers at international airports and business lounge privileges at domestic airports.

After the meeting, Mr. Zhang Lijun’s staffer exchanged views on the above-mentioned situation with Ms. Linda Carroll from APEC Secretariat. APEC Secretariat showed support for China building ABTC Information Service Platform. In considering the seriousness of ABTC brand, APEC Secretariat will actively promote the establishment of this platform.

At the Capacity Building & Action Plan Working Group Meeting, the key topics include: 1. update on the upcoming 2009 APEC SME Summit; 2. enhance private sector collaboration in pan regional emergencies. Some delegates proposed that a summary of key points and findings from the SME Summit should be formally submitted to the CBAPWG so that they could bring them into their recommendations to Leaders or Ministers to help the development of SME.

In the following day, the third meeting of ABAC will bring the curtain down in Da Nang, and we are looking forward to meeting again at ABAC’s fourth meeting in Singapore to talk about the Asia-Pacific economic development issues so as to accelerate the economic growth and to promote the economic integration process in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Reported by China APEC Development Council