Imagine an efficiently operating international trade hub where goods clear customs rapidly, compliant businesses enjoy streamlined services, and potential risks are accurately identified and effectively controlled. This vision is becoming reality for Turkmenistan Customs as it steadily progresses toward building a comprehensive risk management system.
To enhance trade security and clearance efficiency, Turkmenistan Customs collaborated with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to host a five-day National Workshop on Risk Management from May 22-26, 2023, in Ashgabat. Sponsored by the China Customs Cooperation Fund (CCF/China), the workshop aimed to thoroughly evaluate and optimize Turkmenistan's existing risk management framework while providing strategic support for its future development.
Comprehensive System Upgrade
The workshop served as both an evaluation and enhancement initiative for Turkmenistan's customs operations, with two primary objectives:
- System assessment: Conducting a complete review of Turkmenistan's current risk management infrastructure, including the operations of its Risk Management Committee
- Improvement planning: Delivering actionable recommendations to align the system with international standards and best practices
International Standards and Best Practices
WCO experts presented cutting-edge risk management concepts, tools, and methodologies, covering essential areas including:
- Detailed analysis of the WCO Risk Management Compendium (Volumes I and II)
- Introduction to advanced risk assessment tools and data analysis techniques
- Comprehensive risk management framework structures
- Implementation strategies for the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program
- Risk registry development and maintenance
- Establishment and operation of effective Risk Management Committees
- Utilization of the WCO Customs Enforcement Network (CEN)
Strategic Discussions and Practical Recommendations
Participants engaged in intensive dialogue with WCO specialists on system optimization, focusing on:
- Enhancing risk identification and evaluation processes for smuggling, fraud, and security threats
- Developing robust risk mitigation strategies
- Improving interdepartmental and cross-border information sharing
- Defining clear mandates for Risk Management Committees
Additional modernization recommendations included capacity building through specialized training, adoption of advanced technologies like AI and big data analytics, and strengthened international cooperation.
Outcomes and Future Directions
Dovran Jepbarov, Director of the Legal and International Economic Relations Department at Turkmenistan's State Customs Service, acknowledged the workshop's significance in his closing remarks, expressing gratitude to WCO, CCF/China, and participating experts for facilitating the implementation of internationally compliant risk management approaches.
The successful conclusion of the workshop marked an important milestone in Turkmenistan's customs modernization efforts, with participants gaining valuable insights to strengthen their risk management capabilities.
The Critical Role of Risk Management
In today's globalized economy, effective risk management enables customs authorities to:
- Facilitate legitimate trade through streamlined clearance processes
- Enhance border security against illicit activities
- Increase revenue collection through targeted inspections
- Improve institutional reputation via efficient, transparent operations
Turkmenistan's collaboration with WCO represents a strategic commitment to developing a more efficient, secure, and modern customs administration that will support national economic growth and regional trade stability.
Emerging Trends in Risk Management
Future developments in customs risk management are expected to emphasize:
- Intelligent systems leveraging AI and predictive analytics
- Enhanced coordination across government agencies and private sector partners
- Customized approaches based on entity-specific risk profiles
- Dynamic adaptation to evolving threat landscapes
By embracing these innovations, Turkmenistan Customs can maintain competitiveness in the evolving international trade environment.