The extent to which trade facilitation affects GDP, poverty and inequality in a country depends on the structure of the economy, therefore, it can vary across different countries. While estimating the heterogeneous effects of trade facilitation is beyond the scope of this study, it is an important aspect for future studies. It is assumed that the contract has already been agreed upon and signed by both parties. Documents required for clearance by government ministries, customs authorities, port and container terminal authorities, health and technical control agencies and banks are taken into account. Since payment is by letter of credit, all documents required by banks for the issuance or securing of a letter of credit are also taken into account.