The 89th Session of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Policy Commission was held successfully from 5 to 7 December in Venice, Italy. It included deliberation on a number of issues relating to WCO guidelines, practices and procedures, as well as a tribute to its Secretary-General before he leaves office next month.
"The Director General of Italian Customs, Roberto Alesse, welcomed all delegates and expressed its deepest gratitude to the Guardia di Finanza and Marina Militare (Navy) of Italy for their partnership and support in organizing this important event,” the WCO said after the meeting, through a statement.
Alexis rHe welcomed the WCO’s expanded mission to “adapt to global challenges”. He praised the leadership of the Secretary-General: “In this complex context, and with the support of stakeholders, including Italy, the WCO has effectively assisted its Members in implementing advanced and appropriate solutions to secure and promote international trade.”
El Secretary General of the WCO, Kunio Mikuriya, thanked the Government of Italy for hosting the Policy Commission in the “extraordinary city” of Venice. He agreed with the Director General’s statements and highlighted the city as an ideal place and the opportune moment for the meeting for the international customs community “to reflect on its future and strengthen its cooperation, including with external partners”. He also provided a detailed report on the status of implementation of the WCO Strategic Plan.
It is recalled that the WCO Policy Commission is an auxiliary body to the Council - the highest authority - responsible for submitting policy recommendations and the WCO Strategic Plan.
El Chairman of the Board, Edward Kieswetter, He stressed, in this regard, the critical mission of the WCO to support global Customs interests and contribute to societal welfare through international standards, cooperation, capacity building and revenue collection. He stressed the need for clarity regarding the WCO's mandate, vision and strategic intent. He highlighted the changing role of Customs professionals in an automated world and advocated forr “customer-centric approaches and the use of data, artificial intelligence and technology for efficient and effective customs operations.”
Thus, the Members shared during the event the relevant topics The discussions included gender equality and diversity, passenger screening, customs industry resilience, green customs, the WCO data strategy, e-commerce and the scoping study on the strategic review of the Harmonized System. Discussions also included the Customs Environmental Scan 2024 and upcoming activities for the 2024/2025 Implementation Plan, along with the Organization’s outlook for the coming years.
The Policy Commission also focused on developing a Modernization Plan to better equip the WCO to respond to the diverse needs of Members and to continue to provide leadership, guidance and support to Customs administrations around the world.
For this purpose, the Secretary General Elect, Ian Saunders, launched the WCO theme for 2024: Customs engaging traditional and new partners with purpose.
Special activities were held throughout the session, including a tribute to the WCO Secretary-General, recognising his invaluable service and contribution to the international customs community. His dedication and tireless commitment to serving Members will always be remembered.
“The delegates wished Kunio Mikuriya all the best in his future endeavours” following his final participation as Secretary General in the WCO Policy Commission. (WCO News)
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