China and Russia have launched a program to exchange customs data to tighten up supervision in this area. The program will allow authorities from China's Ningbo Port and Russia's Ports of Vladivostok and St Petersburg to exchange information. It will also allow immediate sharing of customs clearing data. And this should help boost cooperation, and improve risk control.

Figures show import and export volumes between Ningbo Port and Russian ports hitting US$4.3 billion last year accounting for nearly 7 percent of bilateral trade.

Huang Yamiao, Vice Director of Supervision Department, Ningbo Customs District said "Some Russian exporters are requesting high tax rebate rates at their local customs departments. But they are reporting low tax rebates when entering China. This could allow them to get benefits from both sides. The information-sharing program should help prevent such irregularities. "

Su Jingyi, GM of No. 1 Business Department, Ningbo Haitian Int'l Co. said "The data-sharing will help boost the customs clearance process. For ethical business people like us, we are not afraid of customs check ups from both sides. We really welcome the cooperation between the two sides. Because it provides convenience,and punishes those who violate the rules. "

(CCTV October 13, 2009)