ROCB Europe and RTCs Strengthen Regional Customs Training and Cooperation at 12th Meeting in Astana

The 12th Meeting of the Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB) Europe and the Regional Training Centers (RTCs) of the WCO Europe Region took place on 20-21 June 2024 in Astana, Kazakhstan. Organized by RTC Astana and ROCB Europe, the event gathered representatives from the WCO Secretariat, RTCs from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, North Macedonia, Ukraine, and Hungary, with a mix of in-person and online participation. The meeting focused on enhancing customs capacity-building, modernization, and strengthening regional cooperation. Vice-Chair Øystein Børmer provided insights into the WCO Modernization Plan, which aims to optimize resources, improve long-term strategic planning, and enhance regional development. Discussions also addressed the need for stable funding mechanisms for RTCs and a stronger role for ROCB Europe in coordinating training efforts. WCO Capacity Building Director Taeil Kang introduced innovative AI-driven fraud detection, data analytics, and virtual reality (VR) training programs, highlighting their role in improving customs efficiency. The meeting also reviewed key outcomes from the 19th Global Meeting of Regional Structures, where customs modernization and digital transformation were emphasized as priorities for the Europe Region. A key highlight was the introduction of a new strategic framework by ROCB Europe to improve communication, funding, and coordination between RTCs. Deputy Director Mirhasan Seyidzade presented guidelines for the establishment of Excellence Centers, aiming to create specialized hubs for customs training in areas such as risk management, trade facilitation, and customs enforcement. These centers would focus on regional expertise, cost-efficient training, and knowledge-sharing to enhance overall capacity-building efforts. Representatives from RTC Astana, Skopje, Budapest, Moscow, Khmelnitsky, Bishkek, and Baku provided updates on their training initiatives, partnerships, and upcoming projects. Key areas of focus included Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs, customs risk management, leadership training, and the use of AI and big data for customs procedures. The meeting concluded with discussions on developing a joint Annual Action Plan to further strengthen cooperation, align training programs with WCO priorities, and explore new funding opportunities for RTC activities.