Abu dhabi: Ian Saunders, Secretary-General of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), praised the UAE's advanced approach to adopting modern technologies and enhancing innovation in customs operations, stressing that this approach reflects a deep understanding of the importance of technology and data in developing customs systems globally.
According to Emirates News Agency, Saunders spoke at a press conference held on the sidelines of the WCO Technology Conference and Exhibition 2026, which is being hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). He emphasized that organizing the conference underscores the WCO's strong commitment to keeping pace with rapid transformations in technology and data, which are essential in evolving customs mechanisms and increasing their efficiency.
Saunders noted the WCO's close monitoring of UAE Customs' advanced experience, particularly in adopting modern technologies and leveraging digital services. He highlighted the importance of innovation in maintaining effective customs procedures while achieving higher efficiency levels.
He stressed the significance of observing the experiences of UAE Customs and other leading customs administrations in the field of innovation, given the diverse expertise and capabilities among the WCO's 187 member states. The organisation often bases its global customs standards and recommendations on the experiences of such advanced administrations.
Saunders explained that leveraging data and technology innovatively to enhance customs operations is informed by the UAE's experience, along with other regional and global administrations. This enables less advanced administrations to improve their operations by learning from countries that have led the way.
He added that the WCO organizes this event nearly annually, placing great importance on it due to the continuous increase in global trade volumes, growing threats, and the rising complexity of legitimate trade flows. Technology is seen as a vital enabler for customs administrations, aiming to make optimal decisions swiftly, ensuring the seamless flow of goods across borders without compromising security.
Saunders concluded that the conference aims to initiate an active dialogue to better understand data-related challenges, enhance customs performance, and ensure access to accurate information, while identifying technological enablers that allow customs administrations to fulfill their duties more efficiently worldwide.