25-27 June 2026, Brussels, Belgium

On the margins of the 147th/148th Sessions of the WCO Council, the Asia/Pacific Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB A/P) actively engaged with Member administrations to better understand their priorities and identify areas for future activities.

The Head of ROCB A/P, Jun Tajim, held a series of constructive discussions with Customs administrations from across the region, including the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA), Timor-Leste Customs Authority, and Maldives Customs Service. These exchanges provided valuable opportunities to discuss current challenges, modernization efforts, and capacity-building requirements.

During the meeting with IRICA, discussions focused on the administration’s ongoing digitalization initiatives and its interest in strengthening areas. IRICA also expressed interest in participating in future Regional activities and training opportunities. The ROCB A/P expressed its appreciations to IRICA’s contributions to the region, by active participation to the Heads meeting of the Regional Training Centre in A/P Region in 2025, and also explained its role in the Region, making the WCO Workshops more effective to achieve IRICA’s policy goals. The meeting was held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, allowing both sides to exchange views on their current priorities and future areas of cooperation.

ROCB A/P also met with the Commissioner of Timor-Leste Customs Authority and facilitated exchanges with the WCO Secretariat and partner Members. Discussions highlighted the importance of continued support for institutional development and human resource capacity, including the possible use of CLiKC! platform for future new recruits, as Timor-Leste advances its Customs modernization agenda.

In discussions with Maldives Customs Service, attention was given to their detailed needs and priorities. Both sides exchanged views on opportunities for cooperation, including the possible visit during the planned SASEC Customs knowledge-sharing.

These meetings reflect ROCB’s commitment to maintaining close dialogue with Member administrations and ensuring that Regional capacity-building activities respond effectively to Members’ evolving needs. By listening directly to Customs leaders, ROCB A/P can better support the Members’ priorities and contribute to stronger, more resilient Customs Administrations across the Asia/Pacific region.

As the region continues to navigate rapid technological change, growing trade volumes, and increasingly complex border risks, such engagement remains essential for shaping practical and impactful capacity building initiatives.