Narrow Definition
“the simplification and harmonization of international trade procedures” where international trade procedures are the “activities, practices and formalities involved in collecting, presenting, communicating and processing data required for the movement of goods in international trade” (WTO 1998)
Broad Definition
Improving the entire environment in which trade transactions occur (Roy et al, 2005), which includes:
- Customs and border agencies
- Transport infrastructure
- Service and information technology
- Regulatory environment (transparency)
- Product standards (harmonization and conformance)
- TBT

Common Notions
- Cutting “red tape” (i.e. burdensome procedures)
- Expediting the flow of goods