The TLIP infrastructure is integrated with the National Electronic Single Window Information for Trade platform, which provides access to international trade administration documentation. For example, TLIP will fetch original export declaration certificates from the National Electronic Single Window System, avoiding the need to both duplicate entering of information and to store multiple copies of records. UK government border agencies, through access provided to the infrastructure, view and interrogate supply chain documentation up to three weeks ahead of consignment arrival, allowing for agencies to begin relevant risk assessments. TLIP enables border agencies to have timely access to original supply chain data and to export declarations and licences directly from the source, better informing clearance decisions. Traders benefit from greater predictability of access to customs facilities while crossing borders, which in-turn reduces their administration costs and effort. TLIP was rolled out in Kenya in late 2023 and included functionalities such as:
- Identification, security and permissions management
- Application programming interface integrations with government agencies and other devices
- UN Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business standard document templates
- Compliance monitoring functionalities.
The country specific part of the platform will allow these functionalities to be tailored according to regional standards and requirements. TLIP’s long-term vision is to expand the infrastructure to other regions and destination markets, with a focus on growing economies for developing regions. This will be done through strategic partnerships with government agencies and port terminal operators.