Imagine a future where goods speed seamlessly along rail networks, data flows efficiently through digital clouds, and customs administrations worldwide collaborate to tackle challenges and seize opportunities. This vision is steadily becoming reality through the efforts of the World Customs Organization (WCO). During the 221st/222nd Sessions of the Permanent Technical Committee (PTC) held in Brussels in November 2018, delegates from across the globe gathered to discuss technological innovation, cooperative mechanisms, and strategic directions to propel global trade forward.
Agenda and Core Objectives
The meeting aimed to provide forward-looking guidance for the PTC's work, clarifying member priorities and expected contributions. Key agenda items included:
- Reviewing reports from subcommittees and secretariat progress to guide future decisions
- Addressing critical technical challenges faced by members and observers
- Sharing innovative customs practices to enhance operational efficiency
- Electing a new PTC Vice-Chair to fill a vacancy
Key Discussion Areas
Customs-Rail Collaboration
Recognizing rail's growing role in international trade, the PTC established a virtual working group to examine technical aspects of customs-rail cooperation. Experts focused on data requirements for customs transit procedures, aiming to develop standardized declaration formats specifically for rail transport. Members were encouraged to share operational experiences to improve cross-border efficiency and security.
Cross-Border E-Commerce Standards
With e-commerce trade volumes surging, the PTC reviewed progress on framework standards covering technical specifications, definitions, and data elements. Discussions emphasized how these standards complement the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and explored capacity-building mechanisms for effective implementation.
Customs' Role in Indirect Taxation
A dedicated working group was formed to develop guidance documents on customs' involvement in indirect tax collection. India and Korea presented case studies showcasing national approaches, providing valuable references for other administrations.
Supporting Small Island Economies
Special attention was given to the unique vulnerabilities of Small Island Economies (SIEs) in global trade. Discussions focused on improving their connectivity to value chains through enhanced trade facilitation, security controls, and regional cooperation. The PTC also explored ways to encourage SIEs to adopt WCO instruments and join the organization.
Emerging Priorities
Several forward-looking initiatives took center stage:
- Container Tracking: Addressed challenges in customs processing of innovative container tracking solutions
- Product Identification: Advanced work on standardized identification methods for border procedures
- Gender Equality: Highlighted progress through the new Virtual Working Group on Gender Equality and Diversity
- Strategic Foresight: Explored how predictive analysis can help customs administrations prepare for disruptive changes
Operational Advancements
The meeting also covered practical improvements:
- Revised terms for the API/PNR Contact Committee, expanding customs representation
- Updates on disaster relief protocols, including Nigeria's implementation of the Customs Relief Epidemic (C-RED) program
- Progress on the third phase of the Capacity Building Action Plan and preparations for Phase IV
- New draft definitions for inclusion in the International Customs Glossary
As the sessions concluded, participants were invited to propose agenda items for future meetings, ensuring the PTC continues addressing the most pressing issues in global customs operations.