Move to help combat smuggling and tax evasion, says official
The computer systems of Hong Kong and mainland customs will be linked next year as part of measures to implement the free-trade pact.
The link-up means the two customs departments will be able to access each other's information relating to imports and exports.
It also would be useful in combating smuggling and tax evasion, Vice-Minister of Commerce An Min said yesterday, when announcing the move.
Mr An said Hong Kong's customs checkpoints would introduce new Chinese computer software to adapt to the change.
Mr An also told a delegation of Hong Kong media in Beijing that he would visit the city on Monday to sign the six annexes to the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (Cepa).