Virtual Meeting Builds Consensus as Innovation Charts the Future
As the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional training models worldwide, customs administrations across the Asia-Pacific region faced a critical challenge: how to enhance officers' professional skills while overcoming geographical constraints. The recent 19th World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia-Pacific Regional Training Centers (RTC) Heads Meeting, conducted virtually, has injected new vitality into regional capacity building efforts.
RTC leaders from across the region joined WCO representatives, ROCB A/P officials, and observers in intensive discussions about remote training challenges and practices. The meeting charted new pathways for customs modernization during the pandemic era.
Conference Overview: Collaborative Planning for Regional Development
Held on October 27-28, 2021 and organized by the WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB A/P), the virtual gathering brought together RTC heads from eight administrations: China, Fiji, Hong Kong (China), India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, and Malaysia. Observers included representatives from Iran Customs, Thailand Customs, and the Regional Intelligence Liaison Office for Asia-Pacific (RILO AP).
In his opening remarks, Mr. Norikazu Kuramoto, Head of ROCB A/P, acknowledged RTCs' sustained contributions to regional capacity building during the pandemic. He emphasized RTCs' pivotal role in implementing WCO's regional capacity building strategy and commended the Asia-Pacific region's significant contributions to the organization.
WCO representatives outlined their pandemic response measures and highlighted the importance of inter-organizational cooperation. They presented key elements of the 2021-2024 Environmental Scan , which will inform the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan , and introduced new hybrid meeting formats.
Core Discussions: Navigating Remote Training's Challenges and Opportunities
Participants explored how enhanced specialization and human resource networks could advance customs modernization across the region. RTC heads shared experiences, best practices, and obstacles in implementing effective remote training programs.
Common challenges included uneven internet infrastructure, varying technological proficiency among trainees, and reduced interpersonal interaction. However, remote learning also presented unprecedented advantages—breaking geographical barriers, increasing participation rates, and significantly reducing training costs.
Dr. Kang Taeil, WCO Director of Capacity Building, updated attendees on the BACUDA project and VR training developments, including a data analysis framework, new e-learning courses on the CLiKC! platform, and a five-month scholarship program in Korea. He stressed that customs officers must master fundamental data analysis skills to navigate evolving international trade environments.
Innovation Showcase: Regional Best Practices in Digital Learning
RTCs demonstrated remarkable adaptability through diverse remote training initiatives:
- China RTC : Developed an online learning platform with customized training recommendations using big data analysis of learner behavior.
- Fiji RTC : Partnered with local universities to deliver blended Master's programs in customs administration.
- Hong Kong RTC : Implemented VR technology to simulate realistic customs enforcement scenarios.
- India RTC : Created mobile learning applications for on-the-go professional development.
- Indonesia RTC : Designed interactive courses featuring case studies and practical exercises.
- Japan RTC : Deployed AI-powered tutoring and Q&A systems.
- Korea RTC : Collaborated with international organizations to develop accredited online courses.
- Malaysia RTC : Established rigorous quality control mechanisms for online curriculum.
Strengthening Partnerships for Regional Advancement
Participants unanimously affirmed the necessity of enhanced cooperation among RTCs, WCO, and ROCB A/P. Key priorities include resource sharing, joint development of training materials, and collective problem-solving for remote learning challenges.
ROCB A/P committed to strengthening its coordinating role, while WCO pledged continued technical support to foster innovation in distance learning. The meeting established clear directions for pandemic-era customs capacity building, with remote training positioned as a cornerstone of regional development strategies.
Future Outlook: Building on Momentum
The successful convening marks a turning point for customs capacity building in the Asia-Pacific region. As remote training becomes institutionalized, collaborative efforts to refine digital learning systems will directly contribute to trade facilitation and economic growth across the region.
With sustained innovation and cooperation, Asia-Pacific customs administrations are poised to write the next chapter in professional development—one where geographical boundaries no longer limit access to world-class training.