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Getting approval for visitor passes and immigration clearance may become an inconvenience due to its lengthy procedure. Even though it’s laborious, visa application is vital to make certain that safe passage is guaranteed as the proper procedure has been adhered to. While some probably won’t notice, this time-consuming process can lead to a negative effect on business interactions. With this concern under consideration, the Asia Pacific Economic Corporation Business Travel Card was brought out to ease off the problem.

The APEC Business Travel Card is made available to business owners giving them the ability to travel without restraint. This is accomplished in a concerted effort by governments to promote free trade and open investment potentials to participating countries. The APEC Business Travel Card allows travellers pre-cleared short-term entry into countries to conduct business, avoiding impractical red tape for business-related purposes.

Datuk R. Ramanan | MIC

APEC Business Travel Card holders could stay clear of the process of applying for visas and also entry permits under personal travel. They’ll also be able to use the APEC lanes as they enter into listed countries by using this multi-entry pass.

The APEC Business Travel Card scheme received the full endorsement from Datuk R. Ramanan. The Immigration Department of Malaysia was praised by him for their efficient work towards the realization of this functional alternative that could induce strong economic growth.

Datuk Ramanan Ramakrishnan‘s encouragement was expressed by his remark that the APEC business travel card has created new gateways for businesses in Malaysia to venture into foreign economies conveniently. Local companies can now make full use of the privilege brought on by the outstanding effort made by related officers who fostered ties with other nations and this has a positive impact on the local economy.

Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, China, South Korea, Philippines, Japan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Taiwan, New Zealand, Russia, Australia, Peru, Papua New Guinea, Mexico, and Chile are now amongst the participating nations of the APEC scheme. At the same time, USA and Canada have taken part as transitional members.

This initiative has a large effect on local businesses, simply because dealing with some countries used to include bureaucratic administration. The Republic of China, among other countries, makes it essential for social pass or business-related re-entries application to be made in advance.

Datuk R. Ramanan is yet another strong advocate for Malaysian Indian business owners and stresses that it is essential for these individuals to reap the benefits of such a flexibility in order to bring economic success and growth for the country. The encouragement of the Malaysian Indian community will also help cement and fully utilise the potential for all sectors of people to encourage and foster young and booming businesses.

The APEC Business Travel Card scheme creation, according to a research carried out by the APEC Policy Support Unit, produced an amazing 38% transaction cost reduction for cardholders. This finding sends the signal that the energy led to both a reduction of waiting time and also travelling expenses. From March 2010 until July 2011, cardholders have managed to save 62,413 hours, which converts into USD 1.9 million in approximate value.