The first is Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

Customs administrations have a long history in the development and deployment of ICT systems and ICT development continues to be a fundamental requirement for all Members. The WCO has developed instruments to assist Members implement ICT systems and message development guidelines related to data creation and management of customs information. Data Model version 3.0, due for release to Members in December 2009, is the latest version of these guidelines which of course also incorporates cross border agency and ‘single window’ functionality.

In addition to the work done within the Committees of the WCO, the yearly ICT Conferences with an attendance of more than 500 participants per year, provide a further opportunity for Customs, Private Sector and ICT vendors to come together to discuss and share experiences associated with current ICT related issues as they apply to the international cross border domain.

The second and rapidly emerging part of the technology relates to Inspection Technologies, designed to enhance the efficiency of Customs controls. In this area the WCO has become increasingly active in support of members wishing to procure and deploy this type of technology.

A Databank on Advanced Technology has been created, Guidelines for the purchase and deployment of X-Ray scanners have been produced and endorsed by the SAFE working group, and the Secretariat is currently working with ROCB’s on organizing a series of regional scanning workshops over the coming months.

Inspection technologies to aid customs examinations are developing at a rapid pace and when deployed as part of a layered risk management approach the pay-offs associated with implementation are increasing as these technologies mature. The use of inspection technologies in support of Customs activities is becoming increasingly important as members develop strategies to counter issues such as increasing trade volumes, static resources, trade security and terrorism, accurate revenue collection, supply chain facilitation, piracy and counterfeiting, commercial fraud, false documentation, money laundering and public health and safety.

Given the tremendous importance and opportunities now presented by the development of technologies that support customs front line operations and in order to assist Members to assess the merits of the technology products on offer,

It was decided the WCO would organize and host the first ever WCO Technology and Innovation Forum with an aim of making it a yearly event.