Single Window Systems
In the OIC Member States
33
2.2.1 Single Window Evolution in Singapore
The Single Window initiative was launched in December 1986, when the Singaporean
Government formed the Executive Committee, led by Trade Development Board (TDB-Trade
Agency) and National Computer Board (NCB IT agency). In mid-1988, Singapore Network
Services Pte Ltd (late’88 renamed CrimsonLogic) was created to develop and operate the
TradeNet SW IT system. The pilot/test TradeNet architecture was launched in October 1988.
Four major development phases have been implemented since than.
 1st Generation SW: In 1989, TradeNet SW becomes operational, allowing various
parties from the public and private sectors to exchange trade information
electronically 28. The procedural coverage was for selected traders only. The SW IT
system was based on client server architecture, dialup connection for submission of
the data to agencies. The submission of the data was one way - from trader to the
agencies, and the approvals were paper based, issued separately;
 2nd Generation SW: the SW was upgraded to a nationwide transactional document
management system for exchange of structured data and information electronically.
The SW had single interface for submission the data to agencies for processing. In
1994, TradeNet started with processing and collection of customs duties, GST and
excise on all imported goods for the Government;
 3rd Generation SW: Integration of mobile services, SMS messages on approval of
application. The SW was moving beyond B2G and G2B, and established B2B services to
facilitate business community (B2B);
 4th Generation SW: In 2007, the IT system was re-designed as a web-based
architecture and TradeXchange was launched. TradeXchange offers a single electronic
window for integrated workflow, submissions and enquiries to the Sea Ports, Airports,
Maritime Authorities, Customs and Competent Authorities.
2.2.2 Organizational Aspects
Governance Structure
The TradeNet/TradeXchange SW was developed and is managed through a PPP arrangement
for which CrimsonLogic Pte Ltd, a limited private company under the Singapore Corporate
Law, was created in 1988. It is owned by International Enterprise Singapore (Singapore Trade
Development Board) 55%, PSA Corporation Ltd (Port of Singapore Authority) 15%, Civil
Aviation Authority 15% (since 2007) and Singapore Telecommunications ltd (Singapore
28 Singapore Customs, Trade Net, under About us National Single Windo
accessed January 2017)