The Customs Administration stated that Customs is a highly internationalized government agency, therefore, maintaining close engagement with the international community is essential to the development of the customs operation. Taiwan Customs actively sends representatives to participate in meetings organized by the World Trade Organization (WTO), the World Customs Organization (WCO), and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), either in person or virtually, to keep abreast of global trade developments and the latest customs trends while sharing Taiwan's experience to promote international exchange and cooperation. To cultivate professionals in international affairs, the Customs Administration and field Customs Offices regularly organize training activities, including International Simulation Video Conferences and International Customs Study Groups, to strengthen officers' knowledge and capabilities in related affairs.
The Customs Administration further explained that it has consistently sent representatives to major international trade and customs meetings, including meetings of the WTO Committee on Trade Facilitation, the WCO Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) Management Committee, and the APEC Sub-Committee on Customs Procedures (SCCP). The WTO Committee on Trade Facilitation reviews members' implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and provides a platform for members to exchange experiences and the best practices on trade facilitation measures. The WCO RKC Management Committee examines members' implementation of the Convention, interprets its provisions, and develops proposals for amendments. Although Taiwan is not a member of the WCO, it is able to attend the Committee's meetings as an observer by virtue of its WTO membership. Meanwhile, the APEC SCCP focuses on simplifying and harmonizing customs procedures across the Asia-Pacific region to facilitate the secure and efficient movement of goods.
To enhance customs officers' ability to participate in and contribute to international meetings, the Customs Administration is committed to cultivating professionals with expertise in international affairs. It holds two International Simulation Video Conferences each year, which are conducted entirely in English. These conferences feature presentations and discussions on international customs issues and operational practices, helping participants improve their English presentation skills while deepening the understanding of key developments in international customs affairs.
In addition, since June 2024, the Customs Administration has organized quarterly International Customs Study Groups in collaboration with field Customs Offices. These sessions provide updates on recent developments in international customs affairs and related issues, covering a wide range of topics such as the WTO Joint Statement Initiative on Electronic Commerce, the Green Customs Initiative, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), etc. The diverse and informative content has helped foster greater interest among customs officers in international customs affairs.
The Customs Administration emphasized that enhancing the international visibility of Taiwan Customs and cultivating international affairs professionals are long-term endeavors that require sustained commitment and continuous effort. Taiwan Customs will continue to advance these endeavors, fulfill its responsibilities, and meet the needs of society.
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