Does AFTA include measures other than tariff reduction and the elimination of non-tariff barriers?
The main instrument of AFTA is the CEPT Scheme which provides that Member States would reduce intra-regional tariffs and eliminate non-tariff barriers. However there are some other measures to support the implementation of AFTA to facilitate trade. Such measures which are currently being pursued include the harmonization of customs matters (customs procedures, valuation system and tariff nomenclature) and product standards. Member Countries are also involved in the creation of a Green Lane System for CEPT Products. There are other areas of economic cooperation which are seen as complementing AFTA (i.e. “AFTA-Plus”) for e.g. on ASEAN efforts to promote Foreign Direct Investment and Intra-ASEAN Investments, the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services, the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Intellectual Property and the ASEAN Industrial Cooperation Scheme (AICO).
