The increasing growth of e-commerce is posing significant challenges for customs administrations across the Pacific region as they strive to provide efficient services while ensuring necessary safeguards. To address these issues, the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) in conjunction with the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), conducted a five-day workshop attended by customs officials from 16 Pacific nations, including Fiji.
The workshop aimed to enhance the understanding of the World Customs Organization (WCO) tools and initiatives that facilitate and secure cross-border e-commerce. PACER Plus Head of Secretariat Roy Lagolago emphasized the workshop’s relevance in supporting economic integration and sustainable development in the Pacific, particularly in improving the legislative frameworks that govern e-commerce.
“Our focus is on helping parties enhance their legislative frameworks for e-commerce and enabling Pacific businesses to harness the opportunities that digital trade presents,” stated Mr. Lagolago. He underscored the workshop’s dual approach, which assists customs officers in comprehending both the regulatory aspects and the practical avenues for promoting Pacific products in global markets.
Nancy T Oraka, the OCO Head of Secretariat, highlighted the importance of adhering to international standards that facilitate legitimate trade while simultaneously protecting borders. Participants learned about advanced processing systems to manage the surge in small consignments and targeted risk assessment methods aimed at quickly identifying potentially dangerous or illegal shipments.
Moreover, the customs officials were introduced to adaptive revenue collection models suited for low-value imports, tailored to each nation’s unique circumstances. “As our digital economy continues to grow, customs administrations must evolve to facilitate legitimate trade while addressing emerging risks,” Ms. Oraka remarked.
This inaugural workshop took place in Nadi and was co-facilitated by experts from Japan Customs, engaging 25 officials from various countries including American Samoa, Cook Islands, Papua New Guinea, Northern Marianas, and others.
The collaborative efforts to enhance customs capabilities across the Pacific demonstrate a proactive approach to not only manage the challenges brought by e-commerce but also to seize the opportunities for economic growth in a digital age.
Overall, the workshop signifies hope for the Pacific islands, as it aims to improve trade resilience and existing frameworks, setting the stage for sustainable economic advancement while keeping customs regulations robust and effective.
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