An efficiently functioning port with swift cargo clearance, unimpeded trade flows, and vibrant economic activity relies fundamentally on robust risk management systems. The World Customs Organization (WCO) is actively supporting Ethiopia in realizing this vision through its specialized technical assistance programs.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Mission
At the invitation of the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) and as part of Ethiopia's national Mercator Implementation Plan, the WCO conducted an intensive risk management diagnostic assessment in Addis Ababa from May 28 to June 2, 2017. This technical mission was implemented under the HMRC-WCO-UNCTAD Programme framework, generously funded by the UK government through Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
The assessment built upon previous engagements and followed the WCO Mercator Programme methodology to complete a thorough evaluation of ERCA's risk management processes. The mission encompassed multiple strategic components:
- Comprehensive Baseline Review: ERCA's risk management department presented detailed overviews of current legislation, policies, and operational procedures. WCO experts then introduced international standards including the Revised Kyoto Convention, Risk Management Compendium, SAFE Framework, and WCO Data Model.
- Cross-Departmental Engagement: The assessment team conducted consultations with multiple ERCA divisions including IT, intelligence, legal affairs, customs procedures, and human resources to ensure comprehensive understanding of institutional capabilities.
- Operational Field Visits: On-site inspections at Bole International Airport and Modjo Dry Port provided direct observation of risk management applications in cargo clearance, trade facilitation, and security operations.
- Supply Chain Analysis: Experts examined goods movement from Djibouti Port through Galafi border to inland container depots, evaluating risk identification, analysis, and targeting procedures against operational realities.
Strategic Capacity Development
The WCO's technical support extended beyond immediate diagnostic findings to incorporate long-term institutional strengthening:
- International Standards Implementation: Transferring global best practices in customs risk management adapted to Ethiopia's operational context and development priorities.
- Customized Institutional Solutions: Tailored recommendations addressing ERCA's specific organizational structure, technical capacities, and strategic objectives.
- Sustainable Capacity Building: Focused on developing local expertise to ensure continuous improvement in risk management capabilities independent of external support.
Implementation Roadmap
Upon concluding the mission, the WCO presented ERCA leadership with detailed findings and a draft action plan for subsequent capacity building under Ethiopia's Mercator Implementation Plan. Key focus areas include:
- Strengthening the legal and operational framework for comprehensive risk management
- Enhancing analytical capabilities for risk identification, assessment, and mitigation
- Improving interdepartmental coordination and information sharing mechanisms
- Integrating advanced technologies including data analytics and automated targeting systems
This technical cooperation demonstrates how effective risk management serves as a cornerstone for trade facilitation and economic development. Through such partnerships with international organizations, developing countries can systematically enhance their customs administration capabilities and integrate more effectively into global trade networks.