Imagine a vast network spanning Asia and the Pacific, where customs officials collaborate through knowledge sharing and skills development to tackle increasingly complex international trade challenges. This is not a distant vision of the future, but the remarkable achievement of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia-Pacific Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB A/P) over the past two decades. As it marks its 20th anniversary, we examine ROCB A/P's role in modernizing customs administrations across the region, facilitating trade, and its future roadmap.
Twenty Years of Dedication: ROCB A/P's Journey
On November 20, 2024, distinguished representatives from customs administrations across Asia-Pacific gathered in Bangkok, Thailand to celebrate ROCB A/P's 20th anniversary. The event, co-hosted by ROCB A/P and Thai Customs, commemorated two decades of significant contributions to enhancing customs management capabilities among WCO members in the region.
In a video address, WCO Secretary General Ian Saunders acknowledged ROCB A/P's crucial role in supporting capacity-building initiatives and implementing WCO instruments. He expressed gratitude to Thailand for hosting the office and to China, Hong Kong (China), Japan, and Korea for providing experts to support its operations.
ROCB A/P Head Jun Tajima thanked Thai Customs for hosting the office and emphasized that its achievements resulted from collective efforts. Hong Kong Customs (China), serving as WCO Asia-Pacific Vice Chair, highlighted ROCB's accomplishments in strengthening regional cooperation and knowledge sharing among customs administrations.
Building Capabilities: ROCB A/P's Core Functions
ROCB A/P's primary mission focuses on enhancing professional skills and management capabilities through tailored training, workshops, and technical assistance:
- Comprehensive Training Programs: ROCB A/P designs and delivers courses covering customs valuation, rules of origin, intellectual property protection, risk management, and supply chain security, emphasizing practical application.
- Knowledge Exchange Platforms: The office organizes regional seminars and forums where members share best practices and learn from each other's experiences.
- Targeted Technical Assistance: ROCB A/P provides customized support, helping developing members establish risk management systems or implement advanced customs IT solutions.
- Implementing Global Standards: The office promotes WCO instruments like the Revised Kyoto Convention and SAFE Framework, helping regional customs align with international standards.
Transformational Impact: ROCB A/P's Regional Influence
Beyond training statistics, ROCB A/P's two decades of work have profoundly impacted customs administrations:
- Enhanced enforcement capabilities against smuggling and counterfeit goods
- Advanced trade facilitation through streamlined procedures and faster clearance
- Strengthened regional cooperation and mutual trust among members
- Accelerated modernization through adoption of advanced management concepts and technologies
Future Vision: ROCB A/P's Strategic Priorities
Looking ahead, ROCB A/P will adapt to emerging challenges with these strategic directions:
- Deepening collaboration with member customs administrations
- Expanding training into emerging areas like e-commerce, data analytics, and AI
- Innovating delivery methods through digital learning platforms
- Strengthening partnerships with international organizations including UN and World Bank
The 20th anniversary celebration serves both as recognition of past achievements and a springboard for future initiatives. Under WCO leadership and with member support, ROCB A/P continues its mission to build customs capabilities, fostering a more efficient, secure trade environment that drives regional economic growth.
ROCB A/P's success offers valuable lessons for global customs capacity building. Through regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and technical assistance, customs administrations worldwide can elevate their standards, contributing to more prosperous international trade.