JAKARTA, 13 November 2022 – ASEAN extended the validity of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Implementation of the Non-Tariff Measures on Essential Goods under the Hanoi Plan of Action on Strengthening ASEAN Economic Cooperation and Supply Chain Connectivity in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic until 30 November 2024.

The MOU includes a total of 351 tariff lines of essential goods at the eight-digit level, 92 of which have been agreed upon by ASEAN Member States this month. The list now consists of agricultural and food products and goods relating to the manufacturing and distribution of vaccines.

The list is developed based on the recommendations of the World Trade Organization, World Health Organization, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

The MOU is critical in maintaining resilient supply chains to support the private sector. It is envisioned to enhance cooperation and facilitate the smooth flow of essential goods while ensuring compliance with ASEAN’s regulations on safety standards and quality for those essential goods during and post-COVID-19 pandemic.

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