Why Choose Trinidad & Tobago: Getting Ready to Take On The World
Getting Ready to Take On The World
G
etting Ready to Take on The World – that is the concept driving the implementation of TTBizLink, a joint initiative of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and CrimsonLogic of Singapore, which began in December 2009.
TTBizLink is a type of IT-platform known as a Single Electronic Window (SEW), designed to facilitate trade. The process is quite simple – companies/individuals who wish to import/export goods, apply for permits, licences, or any other trade-related activity simply submit a single e-document online at the proposed website. The document is then routed to the various government agencies responsible for approvals and within a few days the request is processed. There are eight core government business services or modules provided by TTBizLink. Any company wishing to utilise these services must register online. TTBizLink Modules:Permits & Licences – This service allows exporters/importers to apply for trade permits and licenses from the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s (MTI) Trade Licence Unit, Ministry of Food Production Land and Marine Affairs’ Chief Veterinary Officer & Plant Quarantine Division, and the Ministry of Health’s Chemistry, Food and Drug Division. Import Duty Concession - Clients seeking import duty concessions from the government will be able to complete the
necessary application forms and upload supporting documents online utilising this service. Cargo Manifest - The Manifest service enables Shipping Lines and Shipping Agents to prepare and submit cargo manifest data to the Ports and Customs. Users will have the option to key in manifest information or upload a manifest document in XML file format. The Ports and Customs will receive the data through a secure system-to-system link. Goods Declaration - The Goods Declaration service enables Customs Brokers to prepare and submit cargo declaration data and supporting documents to the approving agencies online. The approved declaration will be transmitted to Customs through a secure system-to-system link. Company Registration - The Company Registration service will enable online submission and tracking of business registration and company incorporation applications/documents to the Registrar General Department, Ministry of Legal Affairs. This service will also enable an online name search and application for name reservation. Applications for a BIR Number for the purpose of business registration will also be available through this service. Certificate of Origin -The Certificate of Origin (CO) service allows exporters/brokers to apply for COs issued by the Business Development Company Ltd or Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (TTCIC) using the online application form. Exporters can also track CO application status and preregister with the BDC or TTCIC. Business Trinidad & Tobago • 69