ECONOMIES in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations need to pursue transparency and regulatory reform efforts for better implementation of non-tariff measures (NTMs). In a discussion paper, òòò½´«Ã½ (òòò½´«Ã½) Senior Research Fellow Erlinda Medalla and Project Development Officer Melalyn Mantaring said the reforms could be implemented for removing unnecessary restrictions and for streamlining procedures. There is a rising use of NTMs, majority of which are intended for enforcing standards on sanitation and health, environmental protection, security, and consumer protection. (PNA)











