Brussels, [Date] – As the shadow of the global pandemic gradually recedes, the World Customs Organization (WCO) today officially announced the successful conclusion of its COVID-19 Project. Over three years, the project provided critical support to global customs administrations in addressing challenges posed by public health emergencies and natural disasters, significantly enhancing their emergency response capabilities and laying a solid foundation for ensuring the stability and smooth flow of global supply chains.
Funded by the generous support of the Government of Japan, the COVID-19 Project was launched in July 2020. It aimed to strengthen the response and recovery capabilities of member customs administrations during emergencies through capacity building, technical assistance, and knowledge sharing. The project implemented a series of activities worldwide, benefiting numerous member customs administrations and achieving remarkable results.
Global Webinar: Reflecting on Achievements, Looking to the Future
To celebrate the project’s conclusion and share its key outcomes, the WCO hosted a global webinar on May 22, 2023. The event brought together customs officials, experts, and project beneficiaries from around the world to review the project’s progress, share best practices, and explore future collaboration.
In his opening remarks, WCO Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Japan for its generous support and congratulated project participants for their active contributions and outstanding achievements. He emphasized that the experiences and outcomes of the COVID-19 Project would serve as valuable references for other member customs administrations in responding to and recovering from emergencies, setting a benchmark for global customs cooperation.
“The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruptions to global trade and supply chains,” Dr. Mikuriya stated. “The WCO acted swiftly by launching the COVID-19 Project to help member customs administrations address these challenges and strengthen their preparedness for future crises. We are highly satisfied with the project’s outcomes and believe they will contribute significantly to the safety and prosperity of global trade.”
Mr. Masahiro Mikami, Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Belgium and NATO, addressed the webinar, highlighting Japan’s long-standing commitment to disaster relief and praising the WCO’s exemplary coordination of the project. He affirmed that the Japanese government would continue supporting the WCO’s efforts to enhance global customs collaboration.
Representatives from beneficiary countries, including Ms. Velma Ricketts Walker, Commissioner of the Jamaica Customs Agency, and Mr. Askolani, Director General of Indonesia Customs, underscored the pivotal role of customs in humanitarian aid operations and expressed appreciation for the project’s comprehensive support in strengthening national emergency mechanisms and operational readiness.
Key Project Outcomes: Capacity Building, Tool Development, and Knowledge Sharing
Over three years, the COVID-19 Project delivered significant outcomes, providing robust support to member customs administrations in emergency preparedness. Key achievements include:
- Capacity Building and Technical Assistance: The project offered comprehensive training, workshops, and expert consultations to enhance customs officials’ expertise in disaster management, supply chain continuity, risk assessment, and emergency response.
- Tool Development: The project developed practical tools such as the WCO Guidelines on Disaster Management and Supply Chain Continuity , the WCO Stress Testing Guidelines , and a mobile application to streamline passenger declarations and improve clearance efficiency.
- Knowledge Sharing: The project facilitated regional and global seminars and forums, enabling members to exchange best practices and strengthen collaboration.
Beneficiary Experiences: Tangible Results
Customs officials from Indonesia, Jamaica, Madagascar, Tonga, Cameroon, and Nigeria shared their project experiences during the webinar. Their testimonials demonstrated how the project enhanced their emergency response capabilities and preparedness for future crises.
Future Outlook: Sustained Collaboration for a Secure Trade Environment
The conclusion of the COVID-19 Project does not mark the end of the WCO’s work in disaster management and supply chain continuity. The organization will continue providing guidance and technical assistance, fostering international cooperation, and promoting mutual support among members. Dr. Mikuriya emphasized the WCO’s commitment to building a safer, more efficient, and sustainable global trade system.
About the World Customs Organization (WCO)
The WCO is an independent intergovernmental organization dedicated to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of customs administration. Representing 184 global customs agencies responsible for over 98% of world trade, the WCO provides leadership, guidance, and support to its members to promote trade security, economic development, and societal protection.