Since its opening in 1965, Jurong Port has continually expanded and upgraded, becoming the largest bulk cargo port in Asia. With strong vessel acceptance capacity and advanced logistics facilities, it plays a vital role in supporting Singapore's economy and the global supply chain.
Veracruz Port is the largest port on the eastern coast of Mexico, serving as a commercial hub due to its rich history and geographical advantages. With a well-established transportation and efficient logistics system, the port handled a throughput of 22.33 million tons in 2013 and is currently undergoing expansion to enhance its international trade capacity.
Pepel Port, located on Pepel Island in Sierra Leone, is a significant ore transportation hub situated 24 kilometers from Freetown. The deep-water channel of the port can accommodate large ore ships, and it is supported by a dedicated railway network that connects to the mining areas, creating an efficient logistics network.
San Pedro Port is a vital maritime hub in Côte d'Ivoire, located in the Soussandro region. It handles over 1 million tons of cargo annually, primarily exporting agricultural products and importing machinery and steel. The port can accommodate vessels up to 241 meters in length, making it a key connector to international markets.
Banjul Port is the largest port in Gambia, equipped with modern facilities and deep-water docks, playing a crucial role in import and export activities as well as regional trade. Its advantageous geographical location offers fast and efficient services. Additionally, the city of Banjul is a region rich in culture and tourism appeal, making it a significant engine for Gambia's economy.
Jorge Newbery Airport is a major aviation hub in Buenos Aires, Argentina, primarily serving domestic routes and some international flights. As the second-largest airport, it covers 138 hectares and has a 2100-meter runway at an elevation of 5 meters. Conveniently located just 2 kilometers from the city center and 40 kilometers from Ezeiza International Airport, it offers diverse airline options for both domestic and international travelers.
The 19th Heads of WCO Regional Training Centers in Asia Pacific Conference focused on customs capacity building under the pandemic, exploring distance learning strategies, professional development, and data analytics applications. Various centers shared their experiences, emphasizing collaboration to jointly address challenges and promote customs modernization in the Asia-Pacific region. The meeting highlighted the importance of adapting training methods and leveraging technology to ensure continued professional development for customs officers during and after the pandemic.
The WCO Cross-border E-commerce Framework was launched in the Asia-Pacific region to standardize e-commerce activities. Experts recommend strengthening identity management, data exchange, and other aspects. The Asia-Pacific region should actively participate in standard setting and seize opportunities presented by cross-border e-commerce. This initiative aims to facilitate trade, enhance security, and promote consumer protection within the region's rapidly growing digital economy. Collaboration and harmonization are key to successful implementation.
The Asia-Pacific region faces a significant challenge from the illegal trade of plastic waste. The Asia Pacific Plastic Waste (APPW) project, initiated by the World Customs Organization, aims to strengthen customs' response capabilities, mitigate the threat of illegal shipments, and promote the Basel Convention amendment. Through Coordinated Border Management (CBM) and international cooperation, the project seeks to effectively control and facilitate plastic waste trade, collectively building a future without 'plastic enclaves'.
The WCO Asia/Pacific region hosted a workshop on disruptive technologies, focusing on the application of technologies like blockchain, AI, and IoT in the customs domain. The meeting aimed to share experiences, gather input for updating relevant WCO research reports, and promote digital transformation within Asia/Pacific customs administrations. This initiative seeks to enhance trade facilitation and compliance levels by leveraging innovative technologies and fostering collaboration among customs organizations in the region.
