As global trade continues to expand, customs administrations across the Asia-Pacific region face the dual challenge of maintaining security while improving efficiency and trade facilitation. The solution lies in continuous capacity building and strengthened regional collaboration, with the Regional Office for Capacity Building in Asia and the Pacific (ROCB A/P) serving as a driving force behind these efforts.
ROCB A/P: The Engine of Customs Capacity Building
Established in 2004 in Bangkok, Thailand, ROCB A/P holds the distinction of being the first regional capacity-building office under the framework of the World Customs Organization (WCO). For nearly two decades, it has provided high-quality capacity-building support to customs administrations throughout the Asia-Pacific region through partnerships with regional customs agencies, the WCO Secretariat, regional training centers, and development partners.
The organization's core mission focuses on four key areas:
- Promoting regional cooperation: Creating platforms for knowledge exchange and sharing of best practices among Asia-Pacific customs administrations to address shared challenges.
- Enhancing professional capabilities: Designing customized training programs in critical areas including risk management, intellectual property protection, rules of origin, valuation, and commodity classification.
- Advancing modernization: Supporting the adoption of advanced technologies and management practices to streamline customs procedures and reduce trade costs.
- Strengthening international collaboration: Facilitating implementation of international customs standards to promote secure and efficient global trade.
Hong Kong Customs: A Model of Regional Partnership
Hong Kong Customs has emerged as a steadfast supporter of ROCB A/P's mission, demonstrating commitment through personnel deployments, financial contributions, and technical expertise sharing. The agency recently assigned experienced officer James Wong to serve as a WCO Technical Officer at ROCB A/P, marking the second such assignment from Hong Kong Customs.
Mr. Wong's predecessor, Kelvin Wong, completed a successful two-year tenure at ROCB A/P, contributing significantly to regional capacity-building initiatives. This continuity of personnel exchange underscores Hong Kong Customs' long-term commitment to enhancing customs capabilities across the Asia-Pacific region.
Hong Kong's support extends beyond personnel exchanges to include:
- Financial assistance for ROCB A/P programs and activities
- Knowledge sharing in customs administration, risk management, and intellectual property protection
- Provision of training facilities and instructors for capacity-building initiatives
Intellectual Property Protection Gains New Momentum
With extensive expertise in intellectual property rights enforcement, James Wong's assignment brings renewed focus to this critical area of ROCB A/P's work. The organization anticipates leveraging his specialized knowledge to:
- Enhance regional capabilities in combating counterfeit goods trafficking
- Strengthen international cooperation against cross-border infringement
- Raise public awareness about intellectual property protection
Future Outlook: Collaboration for Shared Prosperity
Supported by committed members like Hong Kong Customs, ROCB A/P continues to play a vital role in advancing customs capabilities across the Asia-Pacific region. Its success in balancing trade security with facilitation offers valuable lessons for customs administrations worldwide as they navigate the complexities of global commerce.