In a context where technological integration and security are essential pillars for the development of international trade, the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, will become the stage for the World Customs Organization (WCO) Technology Conference 2024. From November 12 to 14, the WCO event, organized by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service, will be held under the theme "Digital Borders: Customs Embracing Innovation with Traditional and New Partners", highlighting the importance of aligning practices and technological solutions among customs at a global level.
With the participation of representatives from over 180 member countries, the conference will address approaches, protocols and tools that seek to optimize efficiency, increase transparency and strengthen cooperation in the customs sector. Below are some of the topics to be discussed at the event, along with ASAPRA's position on the subject.
Artificial Intelligence: Accuracy and Reliability in Customs Monitoring
The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in fraud detection and risk assessment is highlighted as one of the central themes of the conference. A practical example is the BACUDA project, developed by the WCO, which uses AI to identify suspicious behaviour patterns and foresee potential trade risks. This proactive, data-driven approach strengthens the ability of customs to anticipate problems and make informed decisions. Far from replacing human judgement, this technology complements the work of professionals, increasing the accuracy and efficiency of customs operations globally.
Interoperability and the Unified File Format (UFF): Real-Time Connection
The WCO underlines the importance of interoperability between systems as an essential element for the integration of international customs. One of the innovations in this area is the Unified File Format (UFF), which allows information to be standardised between different customs administrations. Thanks to the UFF, countries can exchange data quickly and securely, establishing a global network that facilitates real-time communication and promotes transparency in cross-border transactions. Interoperability improves responsiveness and coordination, which are crucial in a context of increasing logistical complexity.
Geointelligence: Strategic Border Monitoring
The conference also highlights the critical role of geointelligence as a key tool for monitoring border areas. The WCO promotes the use of geospatial data and satellite images as an effective method for monitoring activities in remote regions. This technology enables customs authorities to identify suspicious patterns, take preventive measures and coordinate security operations with greater precision. The use of geointelligence is aligned with the goals of secure and sustained border control.
OSINT: Open Source Intelligence for Comprehensive Analysis
Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) plays a central role in customs security operations. Using publicly available data such as business records and social media, OSINT allows authorities to track trends and patterns that may indicate irregular behavior. According to the WCO, this practice offers an additional layer of protection by facilitating the anticipation of potential threats. The implementation of OSINT provides a solid foundation for the creation of effective and agile response protocols.
COLIBRI Project: Air Control and Monitoring of General Aviation
The COLIBRI Project, an initiative of the WCO in collaboration with the European Union, illustrates the commitment to safe aviation monitoring. Using the Geoportal, the project enables detailed tracking of general aviation, identifying flight patterns that may indicate irregular activity. COLIBRI is particularly relevant to combating air trafficking and contributes to a more robust and integrated security in global airspace. The WCO encourages member countries to adopt similar approaches, promoting an environment of exchange and technical support.
Blockchain: Traceability and Security in Supply Chains
Blockchain is presented as a strategic solution to ensure transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain. Following WCO guidelines, this technology allows for the creation of immutable records of each transaction, ensuring the tracking of goods from their origin to their final destination. The implementation of blockchain strengthens trust between international trade actors and reduces the risk of fraud. Discussions at the conference will highlight the application of blockchain as an essential tool to ensure integrity and accountability in logistics operations.
Smart Customs: Digital Infrastructure for Smart Customs
The concept of Smart Customs Smart customs integrates artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and blockchain to create an environment in which customs control is more agile and processes are more accessible. Cloud-based digital infrastructure enables the secure storage of large volumes of data, reducing dependence on physical documents and optimizing access to information in real time. Smart customs represents a significant advance in the modernization of operations, with the aim of making borders safer and more efficient.
Sustainability in Customs: Responsible Practices and Environmental Awareness
Sustainability will also be a central theme of this conference. The WCO will explore sustainable practices to reduce the environmental impact of customs operations, promoting initiatives ranging from eliminating the use of paper to implementing renewable energy sources. This vision reflects a strong commitment to the environment, integrating responsible practices into technological advancement.
Public-Private Collaboration: Ethical and Balanced Implementation of Innovations
Public-private collaboration is one of the pillars advocated by the WCO for the successful adoption of new technologies. Public-private partnerships allow customs to adapt innovations in a balanced way, respecting local demands and regulations. Knowledge sharing and the creation of joint workshops enable ethical and effective implementation, ensuring that the global customs sector continues to meet the needs of trade in a fair and secure manner.
Global Commitment to Security and Transparency
The WCO Technology Conference 2024, held in the welcoming city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, organized by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service, reaffirms the strong commitment of international customs to security, transparency and collaboration. Each innovation presented and each partnership established reflects the vision of a more integrated and responsible global trade. The WCO underlines that, rather than representing barriers, borders can become points of cooperation and trust, underpinned by ethics and a shared commitment to a safer and more resilient future.
ASAPRA's position
The International Association of Professional Customs Brokers (ASAPRA) recognizes the relevance of these technological transformations for the global customs sector and reinforces the importance of a harmonious integration between authorities and foreign trade professionals. According to ASAPRA, the adoption of the innovations that will be discussed at the conference reinforces the position of member countries on the global stage and ensures that the work of customs brokers is aligned with the highest standards of efficiency and security. The entity believes that continuous training and professional development of its members are essential for these professionals to actively contribute to the success of these new practices, always maintaining the integrity and transparency that international trade demands. Therefore, ASAPRA understands that customs brokers must be at the forefront of these innovations, prepared to adapt to emerging technologies and play a proactive role in building a safer and more integrated foreign trade.
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.
