As the global cruise industry prepares for post-pandemic resurgence, customs administrations worldwide face the complex challenge of efficiently and securely processing massive passenger flows. The second meeting of the World Customs Organization's Passenger Facilitation and Control Working Group (PFCWG) convened in October 2021 to develop solutions for this critical transition period.
Global Collaboration for Travel Recovery
Held virtually from October 11-13 and chaired by New Zealand's Paul Campbell with co-chair Dr. Marayam El Hashimi of the United Arab Emirates, the meeting brought together over 150 representatives. Participants included observers from prominent international organizations such as the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), International Air Transport Association (IATA), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and World Health Organization (WHO).
In his opening remarks, Pranab Kumar Das, WCO's Director of Compliance and Facilitation, emphasized customs' vital role in pandemic recovery, particularly in border reopening and international travel resumption. He stressed the urgent need for global maritime data standards mirroring aviation's API/PNR systems, along with comprehensive cruise processing best practices.
Key Meeting Outcomes
The three-day session produced significant progress on three priority initiatives:
1. Cruise Customs Best Practices Compendium: Delegates reviewed draft guidelines covering passenger pre-declaration, risk assessment, inspection procedures, and health protocols. This standardization aims to reduce processing times while maintaining security against smuggling and illicit activities.
2. Global Maritime Passenger Data Standards: Discussions focused on establishing uniform data elements including passenger identification, itinerary details, health information, and contact data. Such standardization would enable advanced risk assessment and streamlined border procedures.
3. Customs' Role in Travel Resumption: A secretariat note outlined recommendations for health collaboration, contactless clearance systems, and enhanced information sharing between border agencies and transport operators.
Vaccination Certification Insights
ICAO and WHO representatives presented groundbreaking digital solutions for vaccination verification, including ICAO's Visible Digital Seal and WHO's COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate specifications. These technologies provide models for secure, interoperable health data exchange across borders.
Implementation Framework
To advance these initiatives, PFCWG established three specialized subgroups focusing on cruise protocols, data standards, and implementation guidance. These volunteer teams will refine proposals for consideration at future meetings, with participation remaining open to all registered delegates.
The working group adopted a revised action plan incorporating these subgroup activities as dynamic components of its ongoing work program.