Two decades ago, the world began envisioning a more interconnected global economy.  The guidelines to create a Single Window (SW), which would help with this process, were introduced as Recommendation 33 by UN/CEFACT. This guideline has steered numerous implementations worldwide. Presently, after two decades, these SWs are entering a phase of regional integration, wherein they are linking their platforms and operating seamlessly in real time.

The slow or no progress in some initiatives in the exchange of Commercial Documents via RSW might stem from inadequate awareness among traders and interoperable challenges. Additionally, an immature environment could be causing traders to feel uncertain about whether their rights pertaining to import/export transactions involving electronic commercial documents are as adequately protected as those involving traditional paper documents. Once this environment reaches a satisfactory level of development, the utilization of electronic commercial documents is expected to rise, contingent upon a thorough cost-effectiveness assessment.

The primary aim of the project is to provide a Comprehensive Guide that effectively supports Trade Facilitation Initiatives within the Single Window framework, specifically addressing the new challenges that arise with the establishment of a Regional Single Window. 

As discussed in Recommendation 33, a plan was proposed for a gradual evolution that would eventually lead to the concept of a Regional Single Window (RSW), envisioned as an optimal future state. This visual representation was included in the 2011 white paper titled "Single Windows and Supply Chains in the Next Decade: TEN YEARS OF SINGLE WINDOW IMPLEMENTATION" and has become the widely adopted framework for illustrating the progression of National Single Window (NSW) over time.

An additional decade has passed since the publication of that document, and the foresight depicted within it has transformed into reality. The world is now preparing for the upcoming decades, bracing to tackle the task of integrating National Single Windows (NSWs) at the regional level through the establishment of a Regional Single Window (RSW).

We will outline four levels of RSW evolution:
1.	Regional NSW Working Groups
2.	Exchange of Commercial Information
3.	Transactional Information Exchange
4.	Comprehensive RSW for Private Sector
 
Throughout these stages, we will address various challenges that need consideration:
•	Harmonization and standardization of data formats, syntax, and models.
•	Collaboration with other industry platforms.
•	Development of the legal framework for RSW.
•	Alignment with electronic transaction laws.
•	Interaction with the Cross Border Trade Platform.
•	Implementation of integrated borders and human verification processes.
•	Management of data governance and personal data protection.

Deliverable 1:	A white paper addressing the establishment of a Regional Single Window

Exit Criteria for Deliv. 1:	Public Review logs demonstrating all comments have been satisfactorily resolved; Final document ready for publication.

Membership is open to UN/CEFACT experts with broad knowledge in the area of: International trade procedures domain area (Single Window Domain).
In addition, Heads of Delegations may invite technical experts from their constituency to participate in the work. Experts are expected to contribute to the work based solely on their expertise and to comply with the UN/CEFACT Code of Conduct and Ethics and the policy on Intellectual Property Rights.

The geographical focus of the project is global.

The following contributions are submitted as part of this proposal. It is understood that these contributions are only for consideration by the Project Team and that other participants may submit additional contributions in order to ensure that as much information as possible is obtained from those with expertise and a material interest in the project. It is also understood that the Project Team may choose to adopt one or more of these contributions “as is”. 
●	UN/CEFACT Recommendation 33 Single Window
●	UN/CEFACT Recommendation 34 Data Simplification and Standardization for International Trade
●	UN/CEFACT Recommendation 36 Single Window Interoperability

Participants in the project shall provide resources for their own participation. The existence and functioning of the project shall not require any additional resources from the UNECE secretariat.