Raising the bar again   Ensuring safe and smooth passage   Aiming for that perfect balance         Ensuring safe and smooth passage New certification scheme enhances supply chain security The Secure Trade Partnership Programme (STP) was launched in May 2007 and eight companies have been successfully certified and recognised as trusted partners of Singapore Customs. Mr Teo Eng Cheong, Director-General of Singapore Customs, and Mrs Lim Hwee Hua, Minister of State for Finance and Transport, launched the Secure Trade Partnership Programme in May. APL, Hewlett-Packard Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, IBM Singapore Pte Ltd, Infineon Technologies Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, Poh Tiong Choon Logistics Limited, PSA Corporation Limited, United Parcel Service Singapore Pte Ltd and YCH Group are the pilot batch of companies to be certified under STP. These major players from different industries represent a good mix of manufacturers, transporters, third-party logistics providers and terminal operators. In fact, the STP programme is open to all supply chain stakeholders, from large corporations to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Valuable advantages await The STP was developed in line with the World Customs Organization's SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade. Get more information You can find out more about the STP here and download the handbook. The programme aims to strengthen and safeguard the security of supply chain operations and prevent disruptions to the flow of goods, whether due to conventional crime or terrorist attack. STP-certified companies enjoy a host of benefits. They include increased visibility of goods in the supply chain, reduced theft and losses, fewer cargo inspections, faster throughput, better inventory and supply chain management, improved communication between business partners, and enhanced customer recognition and loyalty. The STP certification scheme brings together industry players and the Government to strengthen the security of supply chains. In the event of a security incident resulting in trade disruption, the impact on certified companies may be minimised as their cargo clearance is likely to be expedited when trade resumes. Moreover, Singapore Customs is in talks with the customs administrations of countries such as Australia, New Zealand and the United States to explore possible mutual recognition of supply chain security regimes. If STP status is recognised, it will result in reduced inspection and/or quicker clearance of cargo overseas. Ms Teresa Lim, Managing Director at IBM Singapore, highly endorsed the programme. She said: "It makes good sense for industry and governments to work together to ensure that supply chains are secure. It results in greater resilience, business continuity and competitive advantage. We applaud Singapore Customs for its leadership and initiative in making Singapore a secure and trusted trade hub through the STP." Equally keen on the STP was Mr Stech Hans-Martin, Chief Financial Officer of Infineon Technologies Asia Pacific. He said: "The STP benefits Infineon by ensuring that business continuity is achieved via a robust risk management approach. Infineon highly recommends the STP for companies that are committed to secure measures and timely deliveries to customers." Applying for STP certification The STP certification is valid for three years. Application is free. Companies keen to know more about the programme can refer to the guidelines and handbook. The STP guidelines are flexible and non-prescriptive, allowing companies to customise their security plans according to their business models and risks. To assist companies to enhance their capabilities in supply chain security, Singapore Customs is working with the Economic Development Board (EDB) and SPRING Singapore on a training assistance scheme and a development programme. Companies can approach the Economic Development Board for training assistance under the Initiatives in New Technology (INTECH) Scheme. SPRING Singapore's Logistics Capability Development Programme provides support for SMEs looking to improve their processes, develop new services or adopt technology.   Copyright © 2007 Singapore Customs. All Rights Reserved.