Get ready! In November 2024, Brazil will have the honor of hosting the World Customs Organization Technology Conference (WCO). This mega event, which will be held at Riocentro in Rio de Janeiro, will bring together leaders and specialists from over 180 WCO member countries to discuss technological innovations in the customs field. Here I share a customs broker's perspective on what to expect from this edition, based on past events and the current needs of customs around the world.
Digital transformation is in full swing and will be the focus of the WCO Technology Conference. At the 2023 event, held in Hanoi, Vietnam, topics such as data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence were discussed. For 2024, the idea is to deepen these discussions and show how technology is changing customs processes, making everything more efficient and accurate. Particular attention will be paid to the Innovation and Change Management departments, with a particular focus on the application of AI to optimize processes.
Blockchain will also be on everyone’s lips. This technology is excellent for increasing transparency and efficiency in operations. New use cases and technological advances will be introduced, such as the traceability of goods and the authentication of documents, reinforcing the role of blockchain in customs modernization. In addition, blockchain will be explored as a secure solution for data exchange between customs.
Customs security remains a crucial topic. The 2023 conference already gave a hint about the importance of cybersecurity and business continuity in a digital environment. In 2024, we will see new detection technologies in action, strongly addressing the fight against drug trafficking, money laundering, smuggling and under-invoicing. The detection of illicit activities and the fight against piracy will be central topics, with discussions on how to strengthen enforcement and prevent fraud.
AI will shine in risk management, showing how large volumes of data can be used to identify and mitigate threats in real time. Case studies from different countries will illustrate these technological advances in customs control.
Facilitating trade is another important theme. At the 2023 event, there was discussion about how technology can simplify customs processes and speed up the flow of goods. For 2024, sustainability will be a particular focus, promoting more efficient and ecologically responsible trade.
Technological solutions for greener and more sustainable trade are expected to be showcased, showing how digitalisation can reduce the environmental impact of customs operations. Promoting sustainable business practices will be key, reflecting the growing global concern for sustainability.
The ethical use of AI will be an unavoidable topic. With AI increasingly present in customs operations, questions of privacy, transparency and accountability become more relevant. The conference will address how governments and customs authorities can ensure that these technologies are used ethically, protecting individual rights while promoting efficiency and security. In addition, aspects of governance and transparency in the implementation of new technologies are expected to be discussed.
Public-private collaboration is key to the success of the conference. In 2023, there was a lot of interaction between customs authorities, technology providers and the private sector. For 2024, this collaboration is expected to intensify, with panels exploring how these partnerships can foster innovation and the implementation of new technologies.
International organisations, universities and development partners will contribute, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to contemporary challenges facing customs administrations. The importance of building capacities jointly across society will be highlighted, promoting a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges of the sector.
Customs brokers, as active and proactive representatives of the private sector, will play a crucial role at the conference. These professionals are essential to trade facilitation, ensuring that goods cross borders efficiently and in compliance with regulations. With digitalization on the rise, customs brokers are increasingly involved in the use of advanced technologies, such as AI and blockchain, to optimize processes and increase security in customs operations.
training and the development of customs professionals will also be central topics. Discussions will be deepened on how customs can attract, train and retain talent in a digital world. Continuous training programs, such as SINDASP's Educomex, which promote professional development with a focus on innovation and technology, are examples of successful initiatives.
SINDASP, together with Feaduaneiros and the other associated unions, has strengthened the presence of customs brokers at large-scale events since 2022. The organization is committed to enhancing the value of customs brokers. Initially, it was coordinating, together with Feaduaneiros, the 55st International Congress of Customs Brokers and the 2024th Annual General Assembly of ASAPRA (International Association of Professional Customs Agents), scheduled for October XNUMX in São Paulo.
In order to optimize the agenda and take advantage of the opportunity for joint participation in the WCO Technology Conference, SINDASP recommended to Feaduaneiros and ASAPRA to move these events to November, in Rio de Janeiro. This recommendation was accepted, but the ASAPRA and Feaduaneiros presidencies decided to move forward exclusively with the Assembly, adjusting the Congress agenda to better align with the WCO event in collaboration with the Federal Revenue Service.
SINDASP's participation in this technology forum is in line with various public-private initiatives in which it has participated for Trade Facilitation. The success of customs operations depends on a broad integration of customs brokers with technological tools and best customs practices. This is in line with the agenda of the 4th Joint Forum, held in May of this year in Jamaica, where representatives of SINDASP participated together with customs authorities, reinforcing the entity's commitment to the modernization and efficiency of customs practices.
Finally, the WCO Technology Conference 2024 has everything to be a significant milestone for international trade, especially with regard to innovation, security and sustainability. For its success, the active participation of the private sector, with a focus on customs brokers, integrated more broadly with public entities, will be fundamental. This collaboration is expected to reinforce the importance of joining forces to face the contemporary challenges of the customs sector. With the concomitant holding of the ASAPRA General Assembly, the event is set to be a valuable opportunity for integration and learning, fostering a favorable environment for the development of innovative and sustainable solutions.
The holding of the event in Brazil highlights the country's strategic position on the global stage, highlighting its leadership and innovation capacity in international trade. In addition, it is important to recognize the quality of the Brazilian customs, the Receita Federal, in technology initiatives, which further reinforces the importance of this event for the country.
Customs Broker, with a degree in Economics and a Master in Business Administration in Business Management from Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV). Co-founder of EBIMEX Comércio Exterior and Director of the Union of Customs Brokers of São Paulo (SINDASP), Brazil. He works as an Advisor on Marketing and Institutional Communication at the International Association of Professional Customs Agents (ASAPRA) and is a member of the Brazilian Chamber of Pharmaceutical Products (CBFARMA) of the CNC. He holds certifications in Artificial Intelligence from the OAS (Organization of American States) and in Marketing and Communication from the International Business Management Institute (IBMI), Germany.