In an era of increasing global trade and complex security challenges, customs authorities worldwide face the critical task of balancing trade facilitation with robust risk management. The World Customs Organization (WCO) recently undertook a groundbreaking assessment of Jordan Customs' risk management capabilities, marking a significant step in the modernization of border security and trade facilitation.
A Strategic Partnership for Modernization
From December 4-8, 2016, a WCO expert team conducted an in-depth evaluation of Jordan Customs' risk management framework, supported by the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund (CCF Japan). This initiative represented more than a routine assessment—it was a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening Jordan's capacity to address emerging challenges in global trade and border security.
The assessment team engaged with senior Jordanian customs officials, including Major General Wadah Hmoud, Director General of Jordan Customs, and Brigadier General Jihad Sawaked, Assistant Director General for Administrative and Financial Affairs. Through extensive consultations with risk management units, intelligence departments, and frontline officers, the team gained comprehensive insights into Jordan's customs operations.
Field Observations and Stakeholder Engagement
The WCO team conducted field visits to key operational sites including Amman Customs, the Umari border crossing with Saudi Arabia, and Queen Alia International Airport. These visits provided firsthand understanding of operational challenges and opportunities for improvement.
Beyond internal consultations, the assessment included dialogues with cross-border regulatory agencies involved in Jordan's Single Window project and private sector representatives. This holistic approach ensured the evaluation considered all perspectives in the trade ecosystem.
Innovative Diagnostic Tool Debuts
A highlight of the mission was the first-time use of WCO's new Organizational Risk Management Diagnostic Tool. This innovative framework provides customs administrations with a structured approach to evaluate their risk management strengths and weaknesses, enabling targeted improvement strategies.
During the debriefing session, WCO experts presented findings and recommendations across four critical areas:
1. Risk Management Policy
- Risk Appetite Definition: Establishing clear parameters for acceptable risk levels to guide resource allocation and decision-making.
- Framework Development: Creating comprehensive systems covering risk identification, assessment, mitigation, and monitoring.
- Interagency Collaboration: Enhancing coordination between customs departments and with external partners.
2. Strategic Planning
- Integrating risk management objectives with broader organizational strategy
- Developing dedicated risk management strategies with clear priorities
- Implementing regular review mechanisms to adapt to changing environments
3. Intelligence Capabilities
- Strengthening information collection and analysis from diverse sources
- Establishing intelligence-sharing protocols with domestic and international partners
- Developing specialized analytical capabilities to support risk-based decision making
4. Compliance Enhancement
- Expanding awareness programs about customs regulations
- Implementing robust compliance management systems
- Strengthening enforcement measures against violations
Pathway to Modernization
The assessment findings will form the basis for Jordan Customs' action plan, with the appointment of a national project manager to oversee implementation. The WCO will continue supporting Jordan's risk management modernization efforts, while the diagnostic tool developed through this initiative may serve as a model for other customs administrations.
In today's interconnected global economy, effective risk management represents more than border security—it's a critical component of national competitiveness. By streamlining legitimate trade while intercepting illicit flows, modern customs systems contribute to economic growth, national security, and social stability.
The Jordan assessment exemplifies the growing international cooperation among customs authorities to address shared challenges. Through such collaborative efforts, the global trade community moves closer to achieving the dual objectives of security and facilitation in international commerce.