In 2021, the global customs community will unite around the WCO theme of “Recovery, Renewal and Resilience for a sustainable supply chain.” Customs administrations will be invited to further digitize processes at borders, adopt collaborative approaches, and enhance stakeholder preparedness in these ways:
Recovery by reinforcing collaboration: Enhanced coordination with other national agencies, together with the promotion of collaborative actions and partnerships with the private 0sector, will be at the heart of customs’ approaches to smooth the path towards global recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. To this end, coordinated border management and Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs, supported by WCO reference documents such as the AEO Compendium and Mutual Recognition Arrangement/Agreement Strategy Guide, will be instrumental.
Renewal by harnessing technology: The way customs administrations clear goods at borders should be considered from a fresh perspective. Clearance processes could be further digitized by integrating technology into the performance of customs missions. The benefits offered by the use of blockchain, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and other technological advances should be maximized. Single-window environments and electronic payment solutions should also be developed to a greater extent. In support of technological deployment, the WCO will promote the implementation of its key instruments, such as the Harmonized System Nomenclature 2022 Edition (HS 2022), the Revised Kyoto Convention, and the Framework of Standards on Cross-Border -E--commerce, to ensure the seamless flow of goods across borders.
Resilience by heightening stakeholder preparedness: In order to build resilience, customs will be called upon to strengthen -intelligence-sharing capabilities with other customs administrations as well as with other partners in order to facilitate legitimate trade while effectively fighting against the whole gamut of illicit trafficking, including drugs, fake or counterfeit medical products and supplies, endangered species, and IPR infringements. To conclude, resilience cannot be achieved without integrity, professionalism, diversity, and inclusion.