usaid asean policy implementation (api)

Submission Date: 15 January 2021 (FY21 Q1) Contract Number: 7200AA18D00011/72049719F00004 Activity Start and End Date: November 1, 2019 – October 31, 2023 Contracting Officer Representative: William Trigg

Submitted by: IBI 4040 North Fairfax Drive, #650 Arlington, VA 22203

DISCLAIMER

This document was produced for review by the United States Agency for International Development. It was prepared

by IBI for the ASEAN Policy Implementation Activity. The author’s views expressed in this publication do not

necessarily reflect the views of the United States Agency for International Development or the United States

Government.

USAID ASEAN POLICY IMPLEMENTATION (API)

QUARTERLY REPORT (OCTOBER – DECEMBER 2020)

USAID ASEAN POLICY IMPLEMENTATION (API) QUARTERLY REPORT 1

USAID ASEAN POLICY IMPLEMENTATION (API) QUARTERLY REPORT (OCTOBER – DECEMBER 2020)

The authors’ views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Agency for International Development or the United States Government


CONTENTS

ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................................................................... 3

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................... 4

PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND HIGHLIGHTS .................................................................. 6

Project Overview ............................................................................................................. 6

Component 1: Identify Concrete Needs and Opportunities for Supporting the

Implementation of Targeted ASEAN Policies at the Member State Level. ....................... 7

Component 2: Provide Concrete Technical Assistance to Member States to Strengthen

Their Implementation of Targeted ASEAN Policies ....................................................... 14

Component 3: Mission-Drive Windows of Opportunity. .................................................. 17

TABLE OF KEY ACTIVITIES, TIMELINES AND DELIVERABLES FOR NOVEMBER TO

DECEMBER 2020 .............................................................................................................. 18

MONITORING AND EVALUATION .............................................................................. 24

PRIVATE SECTOR ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES .......................................................... 25

Public Outreach and Publication Materials .................................................................... 27

PROJECT MANAGEMENT .............................................................................................. 27

Personnel Activities ....................................................................................................... 27

Operational Activities ..................................................................................................... 28

LESSONS LEARNED, GOOD PRACTICES AND SUCCESS STORIES ........................ 30

CHALLENGES .................................................................................................................. 31

SUGGESTED STEPS MOVING FORWARD ................................................................... 32

TABLE OF KEY ACTIVITIES, TIMELINES AND DELIVERABLES FOR JANUARY TO

MARCH 2021 ..................................................................................................................... 34

ANNEX 1: PERFORMANCE INDICATOR RESULTS .................................................... 43


ABBREVIATIONS

ADR Assistant Director

AEC ASEAN Economic Community

AMEL Activity Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

AMS ASEAN Member States

ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations

ASW ASEAN Single Window

ASW PMO ASEAN Single Window Project Management Office

API USAID ASEAN Policy Implementation

BOC Bureau of Customs

BPA Business Processing Analysis

CLMV Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), Vietnam

CSAP Consolidated Strategic Action Plan

DCF USAID/ASEAN Development Cooperation Framework

DDG Digital Data Governance

DIFAP ASEAN Digital Integration Framework Action Plan 2019-2025

DOCO Development Outreach Communications Officer

DSG Deputy Secretary-General

FDDG ASEAN Framework on Digital Data Governance

HLTF-EI High Level Task Force on Economic Integration

IAI Initiative for ASEAN Integration

ICT Information and Communications Technology

IPS Indo-Pacific Strategy

IGNITE ASEAN-USAID Inclusive Growth in ASEAN through Innovation, Trade and E-Commerce

NSW National Single Window

MTR Mid-Term Review

PNSW-TWG Philippines National Single Window-Technical Working Group

PROSPECT ASEAN-USAID Partnership for Regional Optimization Within the Political-Security and Socio-Cultural Communities

SWP Semi-Annual Work Plan

USAID United States Agency for International Development

USASEAN United States Mission to ASEAN

USG United States Government


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This quarterly report highlights the accomplishments and challenges faced by the USAID-Funded ASEAN Policy Implementation – Phase 1 (API) Activity for the period: October 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020 (herein referred to as Q1 FY2021).

This reporting period, API continued to deliver in core Component 1 activities, identifying concrete needs and opportunities for supporting the implementation of targeted ASEAN policies at the Member State level. It also began foundational activities in Component 2, which involves utilizing the data and information from Component 2 to provide technical assistance to Member States. With heavy overlap and linkages between the two Components, this quarter saw API work closely on both Components. Highlights include coordination with officials from the Philippines Bureau of Customs (BOC), on the implementation of a Business Process Analysis (BPA), and saw the conclusion of research activities in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), and the Philippines on the implementation status of the National Single Window (NSW) and Digital Data Governance (DDG).

In Quarter 1, FY2021, API began coordinating with officials from the Philippines Bureau of Customs (BOC) to explore whether they required assistance to implement the Electronic Exchange of the ASEAN Customs Declaration Document (ACDD). Discussions between API and the BOC paved the way for the API team to introduce the project to the Philippines Customs Commissioner on November 19th, 2020 and the Philippines National Single Window Technical Working Group (PNSW-TWG) on December 18th, 2020. This led to the development of a cooperative relationship with API to support the Philippines BOC undergo a Business Analysis Process (BPA) exercise. The goal of the BPA was to identify and develop the technical specifications in the exchange of the ACDD and the implementation activities of the ACDD management system. To plan and prepare for the BPA, a virtual kick-off meeting was organized on December 22nd, 2020 to discuss the objectives and tasks of the BPA and an international BPA expert was appointed to support the BPA exercise by conducting a Data Modelling Workshop on January 14th, 2021. The cooperative relationship with the Philippines BOC generated publicity on Filipino media and was promoted on social media by the Philippines BOC.

Research, conducted by locally hired STTAs (national consultants), on the implementation status of the NSW and DDG in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), and the Philippines began winding down during Q1 FY2021. Reports from Cambodia and the Philippines were finalized while Laos and Myanmar (Burma) will be submitting their drafts in January 2021. Towards the end of Q1 FY2021, API began expanding its research from four AMS (Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines) to all AMS (Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam) by recruiting for national consultants from the remining AMS. Including all ten AMS will allow API to better understand the DDG landscape in ASEAN and the relationships between AMS in relation to NSW and DDG. Recruitment to identify national researchers in


the six remaining ASEAN Member States is ongoing and the process is expected to be completed in January 2021.

For the benefit of the national researchers and the API team, the project conducted two knowledge sharing sessions on October 28th, 2020 and November 6th, 2020. Through these meetings, the API project team gained valuable insights into challenges and opportunities in conducting research during the COVID-19 pandemic and how to better manage national consultants in the future. The project team learned that providing tools e.g., research guides, reporting templates, and lists of stakeholders was helpful for the national researchers. Additionally, weekly check-ins between the API team and national researchers were useful to obtain updates and understand the circumstances the national researchers faced. Bringing the national consultants together in a kick-off meeting and organizing knowledge sharing sessions were useful in building connections between the researchers and facilitated learning from one another about the implementation of NSW and DDG in their respective countries.

In Q2 FY2021 (January 2021 to March 2021), the project will focus on implementing the remaining activities outlined in the semiannual workplan. This includes working with the Philippines BOC to develop its technical specifications for the ACDD management system, completing research activities on DDG for the remaining six countries and undertaking activities, including the translation of the ASEAN-wide Self Certification Scheme guidebook, that promote and publicize the NSW and ASW in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar (Burma) and the Philippines.


PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND HIGHLIGHTS

Project Overview

API Phase I Activity is a four-year program which aims to provide technical assistance at the national level of ASEAN Member States (AMS) to accelerate the implementation of key ASEAN initiatives that support the US Government’s (USG) and ASEAN’s goals. The API Phase I Activity will also aim to provide lessons learned to inform the next phase of API.

API Phase 1 Activity is guided by the Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS), the USAID/ASEAN Development Cooperation Framework (DCF), the ASEAN Community Vision 2025, and will be in alignment with USAID missions in the ASEAN region. API will contribute to Development Objective 2 of the DCF: ASEAN capacity to further regional economic integration and sustainable economic growth increased. API will work in collaboration with USAID/ASEAN’s other activities, IGNITE and PROSPECT to achieve common outcomes and contribute to the achievement of the DCF objectives.

To achieve the goals under this strategic framework and the project’s goal, the activity focuses on two main objectives:

• Identify concrete needs and opportunities for supporting the implementation of targeted ASEAN policies at the Member State level; and

• Provide concrete technical assistance to Member States to strengthen their implementation of targeted ASEAN Policies.

The objectives of API are supported by three components, namely:

Component 1: Identify concrete needs and opportunities for supporting the implementation of targeted ASEAN policies at the Member State level;

Component 2: Provide concrete technical assistance to Member States to strengthen their implementation of targeted ASEAN policies; and

Component 3: Mission-Drive Windows of Opportunity.

The API Phase I Activity focuses its research and technical assistance activities on the following targeted areas:

1. The ASEAN Single Window;

2. The ASEAN Framework on Digital Data Governance; and

3. The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint and its Consolidated Strategic Action Plans (CSAP) 2025.

The API Phase 1 Activity officially started on November 1, 2019 and will end on October 31, 2023. IBI is implementing API Phase 1 with the support of a major subcontractor, DAI. With experience on the PROGRESS and PROSPECT projects, DAI brings extensive knowledge of


the inner workings of ASEAN, the political economy of Member States and their respective representation in ASEAN, and a deep bench of technical experts in the ASEAN region and around the world. API Phase 1’s technical assistance will be managed by following a three-stage process: 1. Assessment, and Stakeholder Consultations, 2. Implementation, and 3. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning.

Component 1: Identify Concrete Needs and Opportunities for Supporting the Implementation of Targeted ASEAN Policies at the Member State Level.

The ASEAN Single Window (ASW)

In the second year of the API project, API is focusing its Component 1 activities to support a Business Process Analysis (BPA) in the Philippines. A BPA is a methodology used to understand how business processes are carried out, how the processes are related to one another and who is responsible for generating them, and what documents, rules and regulations are involved and how information flows. In this case, the BPA exercise in the Philippines is to understand the documentary, procedural and operational aspects of exchanging the electronic exchange of the ASEAN Customs Declaration Document (ACDD). This BPA aims to support the Bureau of Customs (BOC) of the Philippines with the Electronic ACDD and help the BOC identify and develop the Technical Specifications and Implementation Activities for the ACDD Management System.

In Quarter 1, FY2021, API began coordinating with officials from the Filipino BOC on the possibility of conducting a BPA on the Electronic Exchange of the ACDD and the development of the Technical Specifications and Implementation Activities of the ACDD Management System. API also appointed an international BPA expert to support the BPA exercise by conducting a Data Modelling Workshop for the Exchange of the ACDD.

For the first six months of the second year under the API’s Semi-Annual Workplan (October 2020 to March 2021), API is targeted to complete the BPA and Technical Specifications and Implementation Activities of ACDD Management System for the Philippines.

Details of API activities for the ASW from October to December 2020 are as follows:

1. Baseline Study in Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines for the ASW

The local STTAs have completed their research activities in Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines. The local STTAs submitted their first draft of the reports to API, and API provided feedback. The reviewing process aims to ensure that the baseline studies conducted by the local STTAs fulfill the study's requirements and deliverables stated in the TOR.

API finalized the Philippines' baseline study; the other three remaining AMS reports are being revised and finalized by the local STTAs. The Philippines' baseline study for the ASW provided the basis for conducting the BPA exercise. This BPA exercise is aimed at


analyzing the processes, rules, regulations and different roles of government departments involved in the exchange the ACDD in the Philippines in order to identify gaps in NSW implementation in the Philippines. This analysis will help streamline the procedures used by the exporting Customs Authority and the importing Customs Authority through the NSW.

API presented the Philippines' baseline study on the implementation of NSW and ASW live operations at the Philippines’ National Single Window Technical Working Group (PNSW-TWG) Meeting hosted by the BOC of the Philippines on December 18th, 2020. Presenting the baseline study at the PNSW-TWG Meeting was instrumental in gaining recognition from relevant government departments participating in the NSW in the Philippines. This will allow for API to present itself as a partner for technical assistance. In a way, it formalized the cooperation relationship between BOC of the Philippines and API. At the same, engagement with relevant government agencies is also part of API’s coordination and communication strategy.

2. Business Process Analysis (BPA) Exercise in the Philippines.

In the first quarter of the reporting period, API developed the TOR for Technical Assistance for the Philippines’ Customs Authority to conduct a Business Process Analysis (BPA) for the Electronic Exchange of the ACDD and the development of the Technical Specifications and Implementation Activities of the ACDD Management System. API shared the draft TOR with the BOC for input and feedback. The technical assistance aims to offer support to the BOC and the Department of Finance (DOF) to help expedite the Philippines’ participation in the cross-border exchange of the ACDD by using the single window enabling platforms (ASW and NSW).

The technical assistance covers the following:

• Development of ACDD technical specifications by utilizing the endorsed ACDD message implementation guide and process specifications. This will identify and check every part of the process points at the agency level, including the sending and receiving the ACDD information and the actors involved in the cross-border exchange process. Accordingly, it can help identify potential improvements within the process, making it easier to carry out a re-engineering initiative to expedite cargo clearance.

• Development and Implementation Activities of the ACDD management system; and

• ACDD Awareness Campaign by the BOC as the implementing agency for ACDD.

After finalizing the baseline study report on the implementation status of NSW in the Philippines, API renewed the local Filipino STTA agreements to lend support to the BPA exercise. At the same time, API appointed Mr. Ian Hogg as an international BPA expert to support this activity.


Next Steps

Led by the API National Team1, API will conduct the BPA exercise and focus on defining the infrastructure requirements, identifying the information security issues, and drafting the non-disclosure agreement.

API will continue to work closely with the API National Team and the BOC of the Philippines, to monitor the BPA exercise. API will conduct weekly progress meetings with the API National Team and the BOC of the Philippines to ensure that the BPA exercise activity is on track.

The ASEAN Framework on Digital Data Governance

During API’s second year of implementation, around Digital Data Governance (DDG) API is focusing on expanding its research from four AMS (Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines) to all AMS (Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam). Expanding to include all 10 AMS, will allow API to better understand the DDG landscape in ASEAN. This is particularly important as AMS experience with DDG varies widely.

The findings from API’s research suggest that DDG is a brand-new topic for many governments. Since COVID-19, the high-speed of advancement and development in the digital economy sector, has left governments trying to catch up. Most of the governments’ economic recovery strategies in the region have included promoting the digital economy, including e-commerce and digital payment platforms. Thus, DDG has become a timely and necessary policy to be implemented.

Furthermore, based on findings from four AMS (Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines), API recognized that ASEAN is prioritizing data life cycle and data life ecosystem through the ASEAN Data Classification Framework cross-border data flows. Based on each AMS's readiness and development level, ASEAN uses the ASEAN Cross-border Data Flow Mechanisms to develop data governance for the digital ecosystem. As such, the Member States' domestic laws and regulations will be considered by API in the implementation of any prospective technical assistance based on the principles in the ASEAN Digital Data Governance Framework.

1 API National Team is ASW Advisor and local STTAs


API activities for the DDG during the first quarter of 2021 (October to December 2020) were as follow:

1. Baseline Study in Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines for DDG.

Like the baseline study for the ASW, the local STTAs in the four AMS completed their research activities and submitted the first draft of their reports in Q1 FY2021. Currently, API has reviewed the first draft of the report from Cambodia and Laos, finalized the Philippines’ report, and is waiting on the report from Burma.

Since the reports for the DDG are an integral part of the baseline studies, the reviewing process is similar for the review process for ASW baseline studies. The review process ensures that the baseline studies conducted by the local STTAs fulfill the study's requirements and deliverables stated in the TOR.

API is targeted to finalize all the remaining baseline studies by January 2021. These reports will be used to develop the next API Semi-Annual Workplan (April 2021 to September 2021).

2. Baseline Study in Other Six Remaining AMS (Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam).

For the next three months (Jan-Mar 2021), API will focus its research activities on DDG in the remaining AMS, namely Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. API developed the TOR for conducting the baseline study based on API's experience conducting research in the first four AMS during the last six months and inputs from the four AMS' baseline studies. API also prepared research guidelines that will be used by the local STTAs and contain recommendations for data collection rather than relying on questionnaires for information.

During the reporting period, API initiated the recruitment process for researchers (local STTAs) in Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. API has posted the position's advertisement on the IBI website and in relevant local portal in each AMS to comply with recruitment/procurement policy of the organization. At the same time, the API project team also reached out to several potential candidates using personal networks to fill the assignment with at least three potential researchers from each AMS. Around 60 percent of candidates being considered were women.


Table of Potential Candidates who were being Reached Out for DDG’s Researchers by December 2020

AMS Researchers/Research Institute

Brunei Darussalam API reached out to two researchers from the Centre for Strategic & Policy Studies (CSPS) and Universiti Teknologi Brunei. All researchers were women.

Indonesia API reached out to three research institutes, namely: CSIS, INDEF, and LPEM. All researchers who were contacted from these institutes were male.

Malaysia API reached out to SERI and Centre for Research, Advisory and Technology CREATE. All researchers who were being reached out to were women.

Singapore API reached out to Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA), Asian Competitive Institute, during this period. All researchers who were being reached out to were women.

Thailand API reached out to researchers from NIDA and independent researchers. One of them was female.

Vietnam API reached out to researchers from Central Institute for Economic Management, National Centre for Socio-Economic Information and Forecasting (NCIF), and an independent researcher. All researchers who were being reached out to were male.

To strengthen the API team in DDG, a DDG Advisor is being hired. API started communicating with several potential experts to fill this advisory position. Since DDG is an intersectoral and broad topic, API agreed to focus on some specific issues in this area, namely cross-border data flow mechanisms, information security (including data protection), and digital signature (Certificate of Authority), especially in the e-commerce sector as well as in the digital payment industry. A final candidate for the DDG Advisor position, who has expertise in the legal and regulatory environment, as well as cross-border trade in services and e-commerce, has been identified and the project will submit necessary requests to USAID in January 2021


Next Steps

API will finalize the recruitment process for local researchers in Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Once the recruitment process is completed, API will conduct a kick-off meeting with all local STTAs to introduce them to API and present the baseline study's objective, requirements, and deliverables. API will also conduct a weekly progress meeting with each researcher to receive an update on their research activity. This weekly progress meeting aims to support the local STTAs to deal with any challenges they face during their research.

API will continue to work closely with relevant counterparts and stakeholders, especially with the ASEAN Secretariat, USAID US Missions in each AMS, IGNITE, selected STTAs, and the AMS to consider the needs of the AMS on the digital data governance issues.

The AEC Blueprint and CSAP 2025

During this reporting period, ASEAN and ASEAN Member States remained focused on their Post-COVID-19 recovery plans and discerning ways to boost economic activities that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the area of technology and trade, ASEAN is keen to maximize the available platforms such as the ASW platform to boost intra-ASEAN trade and economic activities. At the last ASEAN Single Window Technical Working Group (ASW-TWG) Meeting, ASEAN agreed to speed up the electronic exchange of ACDD through the ASW platform.

In the first quarter of FY2021, API’s activities aligned with ASEAN’s priorities by supporting ASW and DDG implementation in the region. In line with the findings in the Philippines baseline study, API focused on supporting the Philippines for joining the electronic exchange of ACDD. Mirroring ASEAN’s embrace of the digital economy, API expanded the coverage of its baseline studies to include all AMS. This will provide API with the knowledge to fill in the missing gaps among AMS in the implementation of DDG in the ASEAN region.

Regional Trends Analysis

To reflect ASEAN’s continued focus on its Post-COVID-19 Recovery Plan, the third Regional Trends Analysis analyzed recent developments as they related to the region’s economic recovery. Therefore the most recent RTA covered several areas namely: 1) ASEAN Economic Development specifically on Post-COVID-19 Recovery Plan, COVID-19 Impact on Digital Data Governance, Gender Perspective on ASEAN Economic Recovery; 2) ASEAN Human Capital Development, in particular on ASEAN Declaration on Human Resources Development for the changing of Work, current Development of Human Capital in ASEAN, initiatives supporting the ASEAN Human Capital Development, and Human Capital for ASW and DDG; 3) Gender Perspective in COVID-19; and 4) highlights on significant achievements to date and the outcomes of ASEAN meetings. The third quarterly Regional Trends Analysis (RTA) was submitted to USAID on November 15th, 2020.


Next Steps

API has prepared proposed topics for the upcoming Regional Trend Analysis due on February 15th, 2021. The suggested topics are as follows:

1. ASEAN Economic Development: ASEAN Recovery Framework.

This section will present an update on the ASEAN Recovery Framework and dig in-depth on its digital-related initiatives, including the outcome of the ASEAN Digital Ministers' Meeting.

2. RCEP and Data Policies in ASEAN.

This section will unpack the data policies and relevant matters related to the digital economy in RCEP and the agreement timeline of each country.

3. Gender Analysis of RCEP Agreement.

This section will provide gender perspectives on the RCEP agreement.

4. Highlights on Significant Achievements to Date and Outcomes of ASEAN Meetings

This section is a Summary of ASEAN High-Level Meetings from November 16th, 2020, to February 15th, 2021.

API will continue its desk research to develop the quarterly Regional Trends Analysis and continue to work closely with the ASEAN Integration Monitoring Department (AIMD) of the ASEAN Secretariat and relevant stakeholders to gather the latest development in AEC Blueprint 2025 and CSAP 2025.

Figure 1. Snapshot of API's First Quarterly Regional Trend Analysis


Component 2: Provide Concrete Technical Assistance to Member States to Strengthen Their Implementation of Targeted ASEAN Policies

ASEAN Single Window (ASW)

For Component 2, API focused its activities on supporting the BOC of the Philippines. The objective of this assistance is for the BOC of the Philippines to exchange the ACDD by assisting them to develop the technical specifications of the ACDD Management System. This technical assistance includes a data modeling workshop, development of the ACDD technical specifications by utilizing the endorsed ACDD message implementation guide and process specifications, developing implementation activities of the ACDD management system, and working on an ACDD awareness campaign with BOC to promote the ACDD.

In addition, API plans to develop Outreach and Communication Plans to increase public and business awareness on the benefits of the NSWs and the ASW. This will include the translation of the ASEAN-Wide Self Certification (AWSC) Scheme guidebook into local languages.

Some of API’s activities in Component 2 for the ASW during the first quarter reporting of FY2021 (October to December 2020) are as follows:

1. Preparation of a Data Modeling Workshop for the Exchange of the ASEAN Customs Declaration Document (ACDD)

A data modeling workshop on January 14th, 2021 will be organized by BOC as part of API’s technical assistance. The workshop aims to share the best practices on how the ACDD information will be exchanged via the ASW and how the ACDD information will be used in the Philippines. The outcome of this workshop is a recommendation on the best approach for the Philippines (short paper) in implementing the electronic exchange of ACDD.

API has appointed Mr. Ian Hogg as the international BPA expert to convene the data modeling workshop. Mr. Hogg has prepared the workshop work plan. The workshop will be divided into two sessions, as follows:

• Session 1 – How ACDD information will be exchanged via the ASEAN Single Window.

a. How the ACDD was converted from a paper document, based on the EU SAD, to an electronic document (message), based on the WCO Data Model (based on the final report endorsed by AMS in 2018).

b. The new Business Process Specifications, which were agreed to and endorsed by all AMS in 2019. Specifically, there are four business processes relating to the ACDD: a) Sending (and replacing) an ACDD; b) Returning a Customs Response; c) Cancelling an ACDD; and d) Querying an ACDD.


c. More details of the new Message Implementation Guide, which has also been agreed to and endorsed by all AMS.

• Session 2 – How will the ACDD information be used in the Philippines?

a. An interactive discussion to establish how the ACDD processes and associated messages can be used in the Philippines.

b. The focus of the discussion will be on how the Philippines can use ACDD information for risk management purposes.

2. Presentation of the API’s Technical Assistance for the Electronic Exchange of the ASEAN Customs Declaration Document (ACDD).

The First Meeting between API and officials from the BOC and DOF of the Philippines was held on November 19th, 2020 and hosted by the BOC. Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero chaired the meeting through video conference. The meeting aimed to introduce the API Phase I project, including its objectives and activities, to the BOC and DOF.

API received positive feedback from the Philippines' BOC and DOF regarding API’s activities for supporting the implementation of the ASW at the national level. The meeting also discussed the proposed support and activities provided by API to ASEAN for the next six months, including Technical Assistance for the Philippines.

Several questions were raised from the BOC and DOF during the meeting, mainly related to the type of support and funding provided by the API project to develop the Customs agency application for the ACDD exchange. API explained that API is open to the Philippines' request on what specific requirements will be needed.

3. The 2nd Philippines National Single Window Technical Working Group (PNSW-TWG) Meeting.

The Philippines' BOC invited API to present the result of the baseline study on the implementation status of NSW in the Philippines at the 2nd PNSW-TWG Meeting. The meeting was hosted by the BOC of the Philippines and was held on December 18th, 2020. The meeting also aimed to formalize the technical assistance between API and the BOC in support of the electronic exchange of ACDD in the ASW.

Presenting the result of the baseline study to the 2nd PNSW TWG Meeting and formalizing the cooperation with the BOC of the Philippines was a crucial step for API because API is still in the ASEAN endorsement process. These two activities, through their subsequent press releases, could help AMS recognize API Phase I Project through their reporting process at the ASEAN level or through ASEAN Single Window Technical Working Group (ASW-TWG).

4. Virtual Kick-Off Meeting between API and the BOC of the Philippines.


Following the 2nd PNSW-TWG Meeting, the BOC of the Philippines hosted the virtual kick-off meeting between officials from the Philippines and API to finalize the BPA exercise and discuss the detailed action plan for the Technical Assistance. The kick-off meeting was held on December 22nd, 2020. There were four agenda items in the Virtual Kick-off Meeting, namely 1) Introduction, 2) BPA Exercise Discussion, 3) Data Modelling Workshop Discussion, and 4) Other Matters.

At the meeting, API presented on the objectives and tasks of the BPA technical assistance. Through a detailed weekly action plan matrix, API showed how the project will progress based on the timeline and the data modeling workshop work plan. API divided the Action Plan into two phases: the first phase will go from December 22nd, 2020 to early April 2021 (14 weeks) and the second phase will start in early April 2021 and go until mid of July 2021. The details are as follows:

a. First Phase, in the first three weeks, API will focus its activities on defining the infrastructure requirements, identifying information security issues, and drafting the non-disclosure agreement, which will be led by the API National Team. Week three and four will cover the submission and presentation of the finalized work plan on January 8th, 2021. The Data Modeling Workshop will be held on January 14th, 2021. The detailed weekly action plan matrix’s First Phase will continue until Week 14, with the Final Report's submission led by API Chief of Party due at that time. The technical assistance will also include a public awareness campaign plan targeted for Week 10-13 2021 and would involve the BOC Public Information Office in the effort.

b. Phase Two of this activity will be subject to USAID approval. The execution is expected in Week 18 to 24 from April to June 2021 and includes cross border testing of the ACDD system with the Member State. Wrapping up activities are from Week 25 to 26 in June 2021 with regression testing, demonstration, and process improvements based on end of iteration review comments. The exercise will close with the submission of the final report on Week 27.

Next Steps

For next steps, API will finalize the data modeling workshop work plan together with the BOC. This includes the finalization of participants from the Philippines. In addition, API will conduct the data modeling workshop on January 14th, 2020 and share best practices on how the ACDD information can be exchanged via the ASW and how the ACDD information will be used in the Philippines.

API will also start working on the development of Outreach and Communication Plans for public and private stakeholders’ awareness as part of public outreach strategy on the benefits of NSWs establishment, and the ASW live operation in Burma, Cambodia, and Laos. This


activity will also include the translation of the ASEAN-Wide Self Certification Scheme guidebook into local languages.

API will continue to work closely with the BOC of the Philippines in the implementation of Technical Assistance for the electronic exchange of ACCD. Moreover, API will also continue working closely with ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation Division, the ASW Project Management Office (PMO), USAID-IGNITE, selected STTAs, and relevant stakeholders related to the implementation of API activities.

Component 3: Mission-Drive Windows of Opportunity.

The second API SWP (October 2020 to March 2021) included efforts to reach out to bilateral USAID Missions to identify technical assistance opportunities at the national level that can support the implementation of ASEAN policies. During the reporting period, the COR initiated a call with the USAID bilateral mission in Burma to introduce API and the project team. The USAID bilateral mission was positive about the proposed activities of API and the USAID team indicated that they would be interested in receiving updates. The final baseline studies from four AMS (Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines) will be presented to bilateral USAID Missions to inform them about the latest developments of ASW/NSW and DDG implementation.

Presenting the result of the baseline studies to the bilateral USAID missions will allow API to synergize efforts with bilateral USAID missions and the respective AMS regarding addressing gaps of implementation of ASEAN policies. Moreover, based on the baseline study findings, API aims to work with USAID Missions in relevant AMS to seek their inputs and feedback and identify possible cooperation on technical assistance, particularly, but not limited to, the areas of the ASW/NSWs and DDG implementation. Furthermore, this approach informs the bilateral USAID missions on the API activities in each AMS.

Next Steps

API plans to share the baseline studies' results to the bilateral USAID missions in four AMS (Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines) guided by USAID/ASEAN (COR). API aims to update the bilateral USAID missions with the latest development and synergize the efforts with bilateral USAID missions and the respective AMS regarding addressing ASEAN policies' implementation gaps.


TABLE OF KEY ACTIVITIES, TIMELINES AND DELIVERABLES FOR NOVEMBER TO DECEMBER 2020

(THE SECOND API’S SEMI-ANNUAL WORKPLAN – OCTOBER 2020 TO MARCH 2021)

Key Activities/Tasks Lead

(See Legend)

Oct 2020 to Dec 2020

2nd Semi-Annual Work Plan End of Activity Deliverable(s)

Oct Nov Dec

Component 1: Identify concrete needs and opportunities for supporting the implementation of targeted ASEAN policies and ASEAN Member States (AMS).

1.1. The ASEAN Single Window (ASW)

1.1.1. A Business Process Analysis Report that would support the ASW Live Operation’s implementation.

1.1.1.1. Continue working with the ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation Division, the ASW Project Management Office (PMO), IGNITE and relevant stakeholders to map the current stage of the ASW implementation;

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

STTAs

O O O

Ongoing. API appointed local STTAs to conduct BPA exercise in the Philippines. This activity is also related to Component 2 Concrete Technical Assistance.

1.2. The Digital Data Governance (DDG)

1.2.1. A survey on current implementation status and needs of AMS on digital data governance, particularly data protection and cross-border data flows mechanism in relation to the ASW policy at the national level.

2.1.2.2. Continue liaising with various counterparts and stakeholders in the ASEAN Secretariat, USAID, US Missions in each AMS, IGNITE

COP

PM O O O Ongoing.



(See Legend)



Oct Nov Dec

and AMS to consider the needs of AMS on the issue of data governance.

RM

DDGD

1.3. The AEC Blueprint 2025 and 2025 CSAP.

1.3.1. A Quarterly Regional Trend Analysis (RTA).

1.3.1.1. Continue conducting the regional trend analysis through desk research and consultation with relevant stakeholders in relation to the current development of ASEAN policies and its implementation. These activities include researching new ASEAN agreements, outcomes of ASEAN meetings, the progress of implementation of ASEAN policy / agreement at the Member State if available.

COP

PM

RM

O O O

Third Regional Trend Analysis is completed and submitted on November 15th, 2020. Ongoing work for the fourth report that is due on February 15th, 2021.

Component 2: Provide concrete technical assistance to Member States to strengthen their implementation of targeted ASEAN policies.


2.1.1. Increased the capabilities of selected AMS (Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines) to do live operation of exchange of ACCD, e-Phyto and testing of e-Animal Health certificates.

2.1.1.1. Based on findings of the baseline study survey, continue to provide technical assistance in the selected AMS to strengthen the live operation of ACDD, e-Phyto and testing of e-Animal Health

COP

PM O O O

Ongoing. API will work with BOC Philippines to do live test of the ACDD exchange starting with the



(See Legend)



Oct Nov Dec

certificates as well as Common Message Exchange Header enhancement.

RM

ASWD

BPA exercise that will include the data modelling workshop. Inputs will be used to develop the technical specifications of the ACDD management system.

2.1.2. Increased public and business stakeholders’ awareness on the benefits of NSWs establishment and the ASW live operation in Burma, Cambodia, and Laos.

2.1.2.1. Continue liaising with NSW officials in Burma, Cambodia, and Laos, ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation, and the ASW PMO to identify the needs to increase awareness for public and business stakeholders in each country;

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O O Ongoing.

2.1.2.2. Develop Outreach and Communication Plans to increase public and business awareness on the benefits of NSWs and the ASW to include translation of ASEAN-wide Self Certification Scheme guidebook in local languages;

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O O

Ongoing. Regarding the translation of the ASEAN-Wide Self Certification Scheme Guidebook in local languages, API has communicated with the Trade Division of the ASEAN Secretariat and developed TOR. TOR to recruit the translators is being



(See Legend)



Oct Nov Dec

published on IBI and local websites.

2.1.2.3. Work with NSWs, ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation, USAID, and the ASW PMO, to seek their inputs and feedback on the draft Outreach and Communication Plans.

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O Ongoing.

2.1.3. Increased capacity of relevant government officials in implementing and understanding the ASW and NSW environments in relation to digital data governance, especially related to the information exchange and security.

2.1.3.1. Work with NSW officials in Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines, ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation, and the ASW PMO to identify the relevant government officials for participating in virtual capacity building or technical assistance.

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O O O Ongoing.

Component 3: Mission-Drive Windows of Opportunities.

3.1. USAID Missions Engagement in Selected AMS.



(See Legend)



Oct Nov Dec

3.1.1. Increased engagement with bilateral USAID Missions in selected AMS (e.g., Burma2, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines) but not limited to the ASW/NSWs and DDG implementation at the Member State level;

COR

COP O O O Ongoing.

3.1.2. Based on findings of the baseline study survey, work with USAID Missions in relevant AMS to seek their inputs, feedback, and identify possible cooperation on the technical assistance, in particular but not limited to the areas of the ASW/NSWs and DDG implementation.

COR

COP O O O Ongoing.

DELIVERABLES

Quarterly Analysis of Regional Trends COP

PM

RM

O Completed (3rd Quarterly Regional Trend Analysis, Submitted on Nov 15th, 2020)

Monthly Financial Report IBI

COP

FOM

O O O Completed (Submitted every 10th of the Month)

2 Currently, Burma has a lot of funding donors and projects helping them in economic development such as TIGA project which also covers issues on the single window.


LEGEND OF PERSONNEL ACRONYMS FOR THIS TABLE

COR

COP

PM

RM

CLO

FOM

STTA

ASWD

DDGD

IBI

Contracting Officer's Representative

Chief of Party

Program Manager

Research Manager

Communication & Learning Officer

Finance and Operations Manager

Short Term Technical Assistance

ASEAN Single Window Advisor

Digital Data Governance Advisor

IBI Corp.


MONITORING AND EVALUATION

The first Collaborating, Learning and Adapting (CLA) exercise conducted by the API team on September 29, 2020 provided the opportunity for the team to reflect on its annual progress before the submission of the project annual report on October 31st, 2020. The CLA exercise gave the project time and space to reflect on the project’s relationships with its partners i.e., the ASEAN Secretariat, IGNITE, USAID/ASEAN, bilateral USAID missions and national researchers, and think about how API would like those relationships to progress in the future.

Two knowledge sharing sessions were held on October 28th, 2020 and November 6th, 2020 among the national researchers conducting studies on the implementation of the NSW and DDG. Through these meetings, the API project team gained valuable insights into conducting research during the Covid-19 pandemic. With offices observing restricted hours and personnel working from home, it was harder to identify relevant people to interview. Questionnaires were designed to collect data but proved too cumbersome as there were too many questions which required different people from various department in the same government agency to complete. At the same time, questionaries had to be translated into local languages, which took a considerable amount of time by the researchers. The local researchers also had to abide by local cultural norms to collect data, which often meant permission had to be sought from very high-ranking senior officials before the government officer would be prepared to complete the questionnaire. In Myanmar (Burma), the researchers encountered internet bandwidth issues that made it challenging to communicate virtually with participants.

Managing the research in the four countries provided valuable insights for the project team into how to better manage their national consultants in the future. The project team learned that providing tools e.g., research guides, reporting template and list of stakeholders were helpful for the national researchers. Additionally, regularly updating each other (project team and researchers) through weekly check-ins was useful for the project team to obtain updates and understand the circumstances the national researchers faced. Bringing the national consultants together in a kick-off meeting and organizing knowledge sharing sessions were useful in building connections between the researchers and in learning from one another about the implementation of NSW and DDG in their respective countries.

Updated results of the Performance Indicators are attached for reference in Annex 1.


PRIVATE SECTOR ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

To conduct API’s Component 1 research effort, currently across four AMS and soon to all ten AMS, the project is working with local STTAs to conduct a baseline survey to obtain a detailed understanding of implementation status of NSW. As a major component of the research, national consultants interview relevant stakeholders, which includes private sector operators. Thus, the findings of the survey and interviews provide a platform to gather input from stakeholders that use the NSW, in other words the private sector. This information will aid in the crafting of policy recommendations to enhance the technical architecture of the NSW in the targeted AMS.

In relation with ASW/NSW, API has been in consultation with economic operators in each country, including manufacturers, authorized representatives (e.g. customs brokers, freight forwarders, shippers, warehouse keepers, shipping agents, transport operators, carriers, port operators, secure freight parking operatives and airline loaders, etc.), importers, exporters and distributors.

In the case of the Philippines, API involved private sector leaders as research respondents, which informed the research outcome that was being presented to the Philippines’ NSW TWG. It included perspectives from several truckers’ associations, brokers’ associations, forwarders associations, air carriers’ association, exporters association, port users’ association, as well as companies in other industries such as telecommunications, manufacturing as well as importers and exporters who are using NSW platform in the Philippines. The interviews with these stakeholders are essential to understanding the perspectives and experiences of the end-user in the NSW platform. In this regard, the research had a two-fold result: providing a baseline study on the implementation of NSW in the Philippines and providing technical assistance for the Philippines’ Customs Authority that is based on public private dialogue that takes the private sector’s needs into account when conducting the BPA exercises that support the electronic exchange of the ACDD.

API will continue to engage with the private sector, especially as API plans to develop its public outreach strategy for the ASW/ NSW targeted at the public, private sector, and relevant stakeholders.

Engagement from the private sector was also important during API’s research on the implementation status of Digital Data Governance, especially related to the e-commerce sector, digital payments, data protection provision and regulations, digital talent base and entrepreneurship.

When speaking with experts during research on Digital Data Governance, API engaged with the private sector in Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and Philippines, including communication companies, e-commerce platforms, commercial banks, digital payment platforms, and online-based enterprises which included small and medium size enterprises. The information API


obtained from the private sector is essential to capture the necessary steps forward in the implementation of Digital Data Governance in the targeted AMS.

API also made note to include women entrepreneurs as key informants while conducting our research to understand gender mainstreaming efforts in the implementation of ASW, NSW, and DDG in Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines. This effort will continue as API plans to conduct research to capture the current implementation status of Digital Data Governance in the six remaining AMS (Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam).

IMPLEMENTING COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES

Outreach With USAID/ASEAN

API continues to be in close communication with USAID/ASEAN personnel regarding deliverables and technical assistance. This includes everything from weekly meeting with the USAID/ASEAN COR to participating in USAID Indonesia Townhall events.

Outreach with USAID Bilateral Missions in Member States

Most recently, API provided technical assistance to the Bureau of Customs of the Philippines and the Department of Finance Philippines. As part of the assistance, the API team participated in two events initiated by the Bureau of Customs: the presentation to Commissioner of Customs on November 19th, 2020 and the 2nd TWG-NSW of the Philippines on December 18th, 2020. The 2nd TWG-NSW event was attended by more than 100 participants and API team presented the project, their findings on the implementation of the NSW and API’s proposed technical assistance for the ACDD. It paved the way for a follow-on meeting, a “Virtual Kick-Off Meeting” between Philippine NSW Leads and other partner agencies to signal the collaboration on the ACDD exchange.

Outreach with ASEAN Secretariat and IGNITE

In accordance with the API Communications and Knowledge Plan’s three objectives, during this reporting period, several consultations in the form of virtual meetings with key stakeholders were conducted. Conversations with the ASEAN Secretariat allow the API project team to be updated on information by all key and relevant stakeholders in the ASEAN Secretariat. At the same time, these meetings provide API an opportunity to receive feedback from the stakeholders. As such, it is important that API continue to have an effective line of communication with the ASEAN Secretariat.

API is also benefiting from weekly updates sent by IGNITE which help the project stay up to date on IGNITE’s activities and key ASW and DDG developments in ASEAN.


Public Outreach and Publication Materials

This quarter, under API’s Strategic Communications Plan, the project completed a press release via the Philippines Bureau of Customs social media platform, created an official API webpage via the U.S. Mission to ASEAN website, wrote an API Fact Sheet, and drew up two graphics used for U.S. Mission to ASEAN’s ASEAN Day campaign. API is now planning to complete news blogs and other outreach pieces in the next reporting period. API has also begun drafting infographics that will be used to explain the project’s technical assistance and public outreach activities. The API communication process is a two-way activity where project teams prepare information in a variety of ways to meet the needs of project stakeholders and those stakeholders respond with their own feedback.

SUCCESS STORIES

1. In November 2020, the API Project started a joint meeting with the Bureau of Customs of the Philippines’s Department of Finance Office of the Commissioner and discussed USAID Technical Assistance. Building on it, API Project has been mentioned in a Press Release by the Philippines Bureau of Customs news clipping reporting on API's presentation to the Philippines NSW TWG on December 18th, 2020, BOC released a couple of publicity activities on the virtual kick-off meeting on December 22, 2020 in their Facebook page that can be found here.

2. The Bureau of Customs, together with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) - ASEAN Policy Implementation (API) Project, jointly organized the ACDD Virtual Kick-Off Meeting between Philippine NSW Leads and Partner Agencies on December 22nd, 2020. This kick-off meeting serves as the first official consultation meeting for the technical assistance granted by USAID-API to BOC for the Electronic Exchange of ASEAN Customs Declaration Document (ACDD) in the ASEAN Single Window (ASW) System. More information can be found here.

3. More Information on the Press Release can be found here. The Press Release is in line with the Approach Matrix mentioned in the Communications & Outreach Plan which focused on outreach to USAID Missions in ASEAN Member States. In the following months, the project will be expecting more outreach activities as the project’s Technical Assistance in the region continues.

4. API also published activities and updates through the IBI website and platform in the form of blog posts and Twitter posts. Updates on activities such as “Adaptive Onboarding” and continued technical assistance can be found here.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Personnel Activities

Four STTAs had their contracts extended in December 2020. The details are as follows:

https://www.facebook.com/BureauOfCustomsPH/posts/2857676634480101

https://maharlika.tv/2020/12/19/boc-conducts-2nd-nsw-twg-meeting-to-tackle-national-single-window-implementation/

https://www.facebook.com/BureauOfCustomsPH/posts/2857676634480101

https://twitter.com/IBIdevelopment/status/1346520692972531713


• D.P. was hired as ASW Advisor from July 3rd, 2020 to December 31st, 2020 for 30 days level of effort (LOE). His contract agreement was extended to June 30th, 2021 for another 50 days making his total LOE from 30 days to 80 days.

• J.M. was hired as National Research Consultant from August 1st, 2020 to December 31st, 2020 for 20 days of LOE. His contract agreement was extended to March 31st, 2021 for another 20 days of LOE. His total LOE is now 40 days.

• Similarly, A.Z. was hired as National Research Consultant from August 1st, 2020 to December 31st, 2020 for 20 days of LOE. Her contract agreement was extended to March 31st, 2021 for another 20 days of LOE making her total LOE, 40 days.

• I.H. was hired as an international consultant to conduct the business processing analysis exercise specifically the data modelling workshop. His contract was from December 1st, 2020 to December 31st, 2020 for 10 days of LOE. His contract agreement will be extended to January 31, 2021 as the data modelling workshop originally scheduled before Christmas of 2020 was postponed to mid-January 2021.

Recruitment for the national consultants in Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam is on-going.

• There were two researchers from Brunei Darussalam who were interviewed. Unfortunately, one withdrew. The candidate, S.A., who remained, is available for the STTA position through her consulting firm, which will require a sole source approach.

• Three institutions were identified. F.H. and B.K. from CSIS were deemed the most appropriate and they informed API that their STTA contracts can be made out directly to them as individuals.

• Similarly, three candidates attached to three institutions were interviewed. D.N. from CIEM was deemed to be the most appropriate.

• Candidates from Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore are being selected

It will take around five working days before the contract can be issued to the consultant after all supporting documents are received.

Operational Activities

The TOR to recruit the Digital Data Governance Consultants for Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam were advertised on several portals such as:

• Devex is the media platform for the global development community

• Jobs Micro is a free recruitment services in 195 countries

• NewDevJobsIndo is a job, media platform & technology provider that connecting humanitarian, non-profit & international development communities and professionals


with +60K job seekers +500 active employers from NGOs, International Aid, UN Agencies, and universities

https://www.devex.com/jobs/national-research-consultant-799467

https://jobsmicro.com/job/ibi-international-business-initiatives-brunei-darussalam-indonesia-malaysia-thailand-singapore-and-vietnam-part-time-vacancy-for-national-research-consultants-for-digital-data-governance-in-ase

Advertised Public Outreach Consultant for Indonesia Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam on IBI Portal https://curawebservices.mindscope.com/IBIINT04154_CURA/Aspx/JobDetails.aspx?lang=en&Job_ID=1299

API also advertised a TOR to recruit translators to translate the ASEAN-wide Self Certification Guidebook to eight ASEAN languages on the IBI website.




https://curawebservices.mindscope.com/IBIINT04154_CURA/Aspx/JobDetails.aspx?lang=en&Job_ID=1299

https://curawebservices.mindscope.com/IBIINT04154_CURA/Aspx/JobDetails.aspx?lang=en&Job_ID=1299


With regards to other procurements, the API project procured four laptops for its project staff in Indonesia from Hewlett Packard Indonesia for IDR 69,120,000. Hewlett Packard Indonesia, the local representative of Hewlett Packard provides genuine products and genuine spare parts, after-sales warranty, was picked because of its competitive pricing. The delivery of the laptops is expected in January 2021.

Although API staff are working from home. It still maintains its office at a co-working space until March 5th, 2021. The installment for its office rental was paid on December 22nd, 2020 amounting to IDR 91,080,000.

Lastly, API’s annual report was submitted on October 31st, 2020.

LESSONS LEARNED, GOOD PRACTICES AND SUCCESS STORIES

Lesson Learned

• To manage local STTA consultants more effectively during COVID-19, it is important to pay close attention close to local STTAs regarding the submission of all deliverables and the agreed upon timeline as they conduct research in their respective country.

• Encouragement of the ASEAN’s DIFAP matrix as a reference material for the national consultants is important to ensuring key DIFAP material as an integral part of the research exercise instead of an annex. As an annex, both the research and the audience may lose an opportunity to grasp the significance when presented in the body of the report.

• To continue organizing periodic knowledge sharing sessions for the local STTAs to share their research experiences. This has proven helpful for the project team as well as local STTAs in other countries to understand and learn different approaches to work and research in each respective country.

• To continue holding a weekly check-in with the local STTAs to understand, in a timely manner, progress and challenges in their research.

• To continue to search for various avenues to spread information regarding our recruitment openings. Our expanding network and experience allow us more access and contacts, especially when targeting specific countries and technical areas.

Good Practices


• Holding kick-off meetings, weekly check-ins, and knowledge sharing sessions with the local STTAs help keep STTAs on track of their research and give the API an opportunity to support the STTAs through challenges that may arise.

• To continue developing relationships with relevant USAID Bilateral Missions and updating the Missions with API’s activities and research results on the ASEAN Single Window and Digital Data Governance framework. This communication has proven important in improving and expanding API’s understanding of the work within USAID Bilateral Missions, in avoiding overlap with other activities, and promoting partnership between API and USAID Missions.

• Continuously update the COR on the current COVID-19 situation affecting API’s activities and how API overcomes the situation to achieve its deliverables.

Reflections/Achievements

• In the first year, API successfully moved to remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The API team managed to continue the research efforts by hiring local STTAs in their respective AMS country to support the project in conducting field research. API successfully conducted a competitive recruitment process over the past three months to hire local STTAs to conduct research on the implementation of Digital Data Governance in each respective country in the six remaining AMS.

• Based on API’s research on the implementation of ASW and NSW in the Philippines, the team was successful to initiate a collaboration with the Philippines Bureau of Customs to conduct the BPA exercise for the electronic exchange of the ACDD since Philippines had committed to exchanging the ACDD in 2021. On December 18th, 2020, the API project team was invited by the Philippines’ Bureau of Customs to share the results of the research in a meeting of the Philippines’ NSW TWG. Afterwards, API organized a virtual kick-off meeting on December 22nd, 2020 to start the partnership to discuss the implementation of the BPA exercise, data modelling workshop, and other relevant matters. The kick-off meeting was attended by representatives from the Philippines’ Bureau of Customs, the Philippines’ Department of Finance, the API Project team, and API National Research Consultants.

CHALLENGES

• Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, API faced challenges in conducting its field research as countries’ regulations change around limiting people’s movements- often at moment’s notice. Thus, some local STTAs faced challenges in the interview process as some government agencies have partial work-from-office regulation or suddenly they are no longer allowed to travel to neighboring cities to conduct the interviews.


The API team supported the local STTA consultants by suggesting virtual interview platforms. Ultimately this allowed the local STTA researchers to manage the fast-changing regulation shifts by using video conferencing platforms to conduct virtual interviews with key informants.

• API is still undergoing the recognition process with ASEAN. The latest update is that the API project is currently in the final stage of recognition process. While the project’s local STTAs are currently able to conduct interviews and research without any difficulty, the ASEAN recognition will make it easier for our local STTAs to approach government agencies, the private sector, and relevant stakeholders to be key informants in the research process.

SUGGESTED STEPS MOVING FORWARD

In Q2 FY2021 (January 2021 to March 2021), the project will focus on implementing the

remaining activities in its second semi-annual work plan. This includes working with the

Philippines BOC to develop its technical specifications for the ACDD management system,

completing research activities on DDG for the remaining six countries – Brunei Darussalam,

Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Viet Nam, and undertaking activities that

promote and publicize the NSW and ASW in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar (Burma) and the

Philippines. This will include the translation of the ASEAN-wide Self Certification scheme

guidebook. At the same time, the project will continue to strengthen relationship with

bilateral ASEAN missions to compliment and strengthen future activities.

Intra-ASEAN travel is still not possible as borders remain closed. Indonesia announced that it

would extend temporary closure of its borders to all foreign travelers for two more weeks,

originally from January 1st, 2021 to January 14th, 2021 to January 28th, 2021 to protect against

the new fast spreading variant of the coronavirus and to counter spiking case counts. Malaysia

declared that most parts of the country will go into various tiers of a lockdown for 14 days

starting January 13th, 2021 until January 26th, 2021 as the number of Covid-19 cases are rapidly

rising. On January 11th, 2021, a state of emergency was declared in Malaysia.

The project will continue to rely on national consultants as STTAs supported either by

regional or international consultants based in the ASEAN region to implement activities. In


the first year of project implementation, the project has learned valuable lessons on how to

manage consultants remotely.


TABLE OF KEY ACTIVITIES, TIMELINES AND DELIVERABLES FOR JANUARY TO MARCH 2021

(THE SECOND API’S SEMI-ANNUAL WORKPLAN – OCTOBER 2020 TO MARCH 2021)


(See Legend)

Jan 2021 to Mar 2021


Jan Feb Mar

Component 1: Identify concrete needs and opportunities for supporting the implementation of targeted ASEAN policies and ASEAN Member States (AMS).


1.1.1. A Business Process Analysis Report that would support the ASW Live Operation’s implementation.

1.1.1.1. Continue working with the ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation Division, the ASW Project Management Office (PMO), IGNITE and relevant stakeholders to map the current stage of the ASW implementation;

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

O O O

1.1.1.2. Build on the baseline study to address the needed enhancements in the operation of their national single window enabling platform, particularly on the implementation of the intra-ASEAN certificate of origin (ATIGA Form D), Common Message Exchange Header, the exchange of ACDD, the exchange of e-Phytosanitary (e-Phyto) certificate, and other cross-border electronic documents that would be considered by Member States.

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

STTAs

O O O



(See Legend)



Jan Feb Mar

1.2. The Digital Data Governance (DDG)

1.2.1. A survey on current implementation status and needs of AMS on digital data governance, particularly data protection and cross-border data flows mechanism in relation to the ASW policy at the national level.

1.2.1.1. Continue developing a survey on the implementation capturing the needs and challenges of data governance in all 10 AMS;

COP

PM

RM

DDGD

STTAs

O O O

1.2.1.2. Continue liaising with various counterparts and stakeholders in the ASEAN Secretariat, USAID, US Missions in each AMS, IGNITE and AMS to consider the needs of AMS on the issue of data governance;

COP

PM

RM

DDGD

O O O

1.2.1.3. Work with national consultants in targeted AMS to further deepen research and coordination with relevant stakeholders on the concrete needs and opportunities at the national level.

COP

PM

RM

O O O

1.3. The AEC Blueprint 2025 and 2025 CSAP.



(See Legend)



Jan Feb Mar

1.3.1. A Quarterly Regional Trend Analysis (RTA).

1.3.1.1. Continue conducting the regional trend analysis through desk research and consultation with relevant stakeholders in relation to the current development of ASEAN policies and its implementation. These activities include researching new ASEAN agreements, outcomes of ASEAN meetings, the progress of implementation of ASEAN policy / agreement at the Member State if available.

COP

PM

RM

O O O

Component 2: Provide concrete technical assistance to Member States to strengthen their implementation of targeted ASEAN policies.


2.1.1. Increased the capabilities of selected AMS (Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines) to do live operation of exchange of ACCD, e-Phyto and testing of e-Animal Health certificates.

2.1.1.1. Based on findings of the baseline study survey, continue to provide technical assistance in the selected AMS to strengthen the live operation of ACDD, e-Phyto and testing of e-Animal Health certificates as well as Common Message Exchange Header enhancement.

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

O O O



(See Legend)



Jan Feb Mar

2.1.2. Increased public and business stakeholders’ awareness on the benefits of NSWs establishment and the ASW live operation in Burma, Cambodia, and Laos.

2.1.2.1. Continue liaising with NSW officials in Burma, Cambodia, and Laos, ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation, and the ASW PMO to identify the needs to increase awareness for public and business stakeholders in each country;

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O O O

2.1.2.2. Develop Outreach and Communication Plans to increase public and business awareness on the benefits of NSWs and the ASW to include translation of ASEAN-wide Self Certification Scheme guidebook in local languages;

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O

2.1.2.3. Work with NSWs, ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation, USAID, and the ASW PMO, to seek their inputs and feedback on the draft Outreach and Communication Plans;

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O O O



(See Legend)



Jan Feb Mar

2.1.2.4. Conduct virtual capacity building in relation to Outreach and Communication Plans to increase public and business awareness on the benefits of NSWs and the ASW.

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O

2.1.3. Increased capacity of relevant government officials in implementing and understanding the ASW and NSW environments in relation to digital data governance, especially related to the information exchange and security.

2.1.3.1. Work with NSW officials in Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines, ASEAN Secretariat’s Trade Facilitation, and the ASW PMO to identify the relevant government officials for participating in virtual capacity building or technical assistance;

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

CLO

O O O

2.1.3.2. Conduct virtual capacity building or technical assistance for Burma, Cambodia, Laos, the Philippines officials on the best-practices of Regional and NSW implementation related to cross-border data flow mechanism, which includes information exchange and security as well as understanding the single window environment.

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

O



(See Legend)



Jan Feb Mar

CLO

Component 3: Mission-Drive Windows of Opportunities.

3.2. USAID Missions Engagement in Selected AMS.

3.2.1. Increased engagement with bilateral USAID Missions in selected AMS (e.g., Burma3, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines) but not limited to the ASW/NSWs and DDG implementation at the Member State level;

COR

COP O O O

3.2.2. Based on findings of the baseline study survey, work with USAID Missions in relevant AMS to seek their inputs, feedback, and identify possible cooperation on the technical assistance, in particular but not limited to the areas of the ASW/NSWs and DDG implementation.

COR

COP O O O

DELIVERABLES

3 Currently, Burma has a lot of funding donors and projects helping them in economic development such as TIGA project which also covers issues on the single window.



(See Legend)



Jan Feb Mar

Quarterly Analysis of Regional Trends COP

PM

RM

O 4th Regional Trend Analysis is targeted to be completed on February 15th, 2021

Monthly Financial Report IBI

COP

FOM

O O O Submitted every 10th of the Month)

Activity Location Data COP

PM

RM

FOM

LSO

O

Research Activity (Mission Reports) COP

PM

RM

O

A Business Process Analysis Report (First draft) COP

PM

RM

O



(See Legend)



Jan Feb Mar

ASWD

STTAs

A survey on current implementation status and needs of AMS on digital data governance, particularly data protection and cross-border data flows mechanism in relation to the ASW policy at the national level

COP

PM

RM

O

Outreach and Communication Plans to increase public and business awareness on the benefits of NSWs and the ASWs (First Draft)

COP

PM

RM

ASWD

LSO

O

LEGEND OF PERSONNEL ACRONYMS FOR THIS TABLE

COR

COP

PM

Contracting Officer's Representative

Chief of Party

Program Manager


RM

CLO

FOM

STTA

ASWD

DDGD

IBI

Research Manager

Communication & Learning Officer

Finance and Operations Manager

Short Term Technical Assistance

ASEAN Single Window Advisor

Digital Data Governance Advisor

IBI Corp.


ANNEX 1: PERFORMANCE INDICATOR RESULTS

# API Activity

#

USAID

# Indicator Type

Data

Disaggregate

d

Sources of

data (BL;

annually)

Baseline Year

1

Year

2

Year

3

Year

4

End of

Project Remarks

API Objective: ASEAN Member States Capacity to Further Regional Economic Integration and Sustainable Economic Growth Increased (Also DO2 of the DCF)

API

Goal 1

Comp 1, 2,

and 3

IPS:

O1.2 –

F:

EG2.1-1

Number of

WTO trade

facilitation

agreement

provisions

supported by

USG assistance

Output Country:

• Burma

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

New and

continuing

Project

Documents

0 0 TBD TBD TBD TBD

API

Goal 2

Comp 1, 2,

and 3

Not

applicabl

e

International

technical

standards

adopted

Output Country:

• Burma

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

Project

document

0 0 TBD TBD TBD TBD


# API Activity

#

USAID

# Indicator Type

Data

Disaggregate

d

Sources of

data (BL;

annually)

Baseline Year

1

Year

2

Year

3

Year

4

End of

Project Remarks

and Technical

Area (TBD)

API

Goal 3

Comp 1, 2,

and 3

IPS: O.4 Number of

commerce laws

and regulations

simplified and

implemented in

accordance

with

international

standards as a

result of USG

assistance

Output Country:

• Burma

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

and Technical

Area (TBD)

Project

Documents

0 0 TBD TBD TBD TBD

API IR 1: Concrete Needs and Opportunities for Supporting the implementation of targeted ASEAN Policies at the AMS LEVEL Identified

API 1.

A

Comp 1 NA Number of

Concrete

Output Country:

• Burma

Project

Documents

4 1 TBD TBD TBD TBD Project is working

with the Bureau


# API Activity

#

USAID

# Indicator Type

Data

Disaggregate

d

Sources of

data (BL;

annually)

Baseline Year

1

Year

2

Year

3

Year

4

End of

Project Remarks

Needs packages

approved by

USAID.

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

and Technical

Area (TBD)

of Customs

(BOC),

Philippines to

exchange the

ACDD.

Sub-IR 1.1: Evidence from Research and Analysis Gathered

API

1.1.1

Comp 1.1,

1.2, 1.3

NA Number of

Indicative

Action Maps

finalized by API

Output Country:

• Burma

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

and Technical

Area (TBD)

Project

documents

4 1 TBD TBD TBD TBD Report of the

Philippines has

been finalized and

is the basis for

ACDD

intervention with

the BOC,

Philippines.

IR.2: Concrete Technical Assistance to Member States to Strengthen their Implementation of Targeted ASEAN Policies Provided


# API Activity

#

USAID

# Indicator Type

Data

Disaggregate

d

Sources of

data (BL;

annually)

Baseline Year

1

Year

2

Year

3

Year

4

End of

Project Remarks

API 2.

A

Comp 2 F: 2.1 Person-hours

of USG-

supported

training

completed in

trade and

investment

Output Sex (Male and

Female)

Project

documents

0 0 TBD TBD TBD TBD Data modeling

workshop to be

organized in

January 2021 in

the Philippines.

API 2. B Comp 2 NA ASW New

documentation

by Member

State added to

data exchange

system

Output Country:

• Burma

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

Kinds of

Certificates:

Project

documents

4 0 1 TBD TBD TBD Targeting

Philippines to

exchange the

ACDD.


# API Activity

#

USAID

# Indicator Type

Data

Disaggregate

d

Sources of

data (BL;

annually)

Baseline Year

1

Year

2

Year

3

Year

4

End of

Project Remarks

• ASEAN Customs Declaration Document (ACDD)

• Electronic Phytosanitary (e-Phyto) Certificate

• Electronic Animal Health (e-AH) Certificate

• Electronic Food Safety (e-FS) Certificate

Sub-IR 2.1: Targeted Technical Assistance Provided


# API Activity

#

USAID

# Indicator Type

Data

Disaggregate

d

Sources of

data (BL;

annually)

Baseline Year

1

Year

2

Year

3

Year

4

End of

Project Remarks

API

2.1.1

Comp 2.1 NA Number of

approved

concrete

technical

assistance

activities

completed

Output Country:

• Burma

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

Project

Report

0 0 1 TBD TBD TBD Helping

Philippines with

the ACDD.

IR.3: Mission Driven Windows of Opportunity Explored

API 3.

A

Comp 3 NA Number of

Concrete

Needs packages

approved by

USAID.

Output Mission

• Burma

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

Project

Report

0 0 TBD TBD TBD TBD Three USAID

Missions in

Cambodia, the

Philippines and

Burma are aware

of API.

Sub. IR.3.1: ASEAN USAID Missions Engaged


# API Activity

#

USAID

# Indicator Type

Data

Disaggregate

d

Sources of

data (BL;

annually)

Baseline Year

1

Year

2

Year

3

Year

4

End of

Project Remarks

API

3.1.1.

Comp 3.1 NA Number of

Indicative

Action Maps

finalized by API

Output Mission:

• Burma

• Cambodia

• Laos

• Philippines

Project

Report

0 0 TBD TBD TBD TBD No engagement

undertaken with

the three USAID

Missions yet,

except alerting

them to API.