The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges to industries worldwide while accelerating digital transformation. For the Asia-Pacific Regional Training Centers (RTCs) responsible for customs capacity building, overcoming geographical limitations and innovating training models while maintaining quality has become a critical mission.
On October 27-28, 2021, the 19th WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Training Centers Heads Meeting was held virtually, hosted by the Regional Office for Capacity Building in Asia-Pacific (ROCB A/P). The event provided a valuable platform for RTCs to share experiences and collaborate on development strategies.
ROCB A/P Opening Remarks and WCO Response Measures
Mr. Norikazu Kuramoto, Head of ROCB A/P, expressed gratitude to RTCs for their continued support during the pandemic, emphasizing their role as key pillars of WCO's regional capacity building policy. The WCO representative outlined COVID-19 response measures, highlighting collaboration with other organizations and presenting core elements of the "2021-2024 Environmental Scan," which will inform the "2022-2025 Strategic Plan."
Regional Updates and Capacity Building Reports
The Asia-Pacific Vice-Chair's Office presented its latest policies and initiatives, while ROCB A/P reported on capacity building activities conducted between 2020-2021. These updates provided participants with comprehensive insights into current trends in regional customs capacity building.
RTCs Share Experiences and Address Challenges
The meeting's core session featured RTC heads exchanging views on enhancing customs capabilities through professional development and human resource networks. Participants shared experiences, practices, and challenges in conducting effective remote training, with representatives from eight RTCs (China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, and Malaysia) presenting their approaches:
- China RTC: Leveraged online platforms and virtual reality technology to simulate customs inspection scenarios while acknowledging increased demands on instructors' digital teaching capabilities.
- Fiji RTC: Addressed infrastructure limitations through content optimization and offline learning resources, while collaborating with other RTCs to share materials.
- Hong Kong RTC: Developed comprehensive learning management systems and utilized social media for learner engagement, emphasizing participation and interactivity.
- India RTC: Implemented large-scale MOOC platforms to deliver standardized training nationwide.
- Indonesia RTC: Adopted tiered instruction to accommodate varying technical competencies among trainees.
- Japan RTC: Incorporated AI technologies to personalize learning experiences and automate content adjustment.
- Korea RTC: Focused on international cooperation for joint course development and resource sharing.
- Malaysia RTC: Implemented gamification strategies to enhance learner motivation and engagement.
WCO's BACUDA Project and VR Training Initiatives
Dr. Taeil Kang, WCO Capacity Building Director, presented updates on the BACUDA project and VR training, including a data analysis framework, online courses on CLiKC!, and a 5-month scholarship program in Korea. These initiatives aim to equip customs officials with essential data analysis skills for evolving trade environments.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The successful convening of this regional meeting provided both a platform for knowledge exchange and valuable insights for future capacity building strategies. As digital technologies continue advancing, remote training will play an increasingly vital role in customs modernization efforts. Asia-Pacific RTCs remain committed to strengthening collaboration to address challenges and contribute to global customs development.