Hong Kong Customs, in the capacity of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Vice-Chair for the Asia/Pacific (A/P) Region, is today (May 19) hosting the 26th WCO A/P Regional Heads of Customs Administrations Conference, which is running May 19 to 22.
      
     The Conference is the highest-level meeting held annually in the A/P region, which has gathered more than 120 heads of Customs organisations and senior officials from the region, along with delegates from the WCO's regional entities. The Secretary General of the WCO, Mr Ian Saunders, was also in attendance.
      
     The Conference started with a welcoming speech by the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr Chan Tsz-tat, in the capacity of the WCO Vice-Chairperson for the A/P Region. While highlighting that the Conference serves as an important platform for discussing regional policies and formulating the future of the customs community, Mr Chan encouraged participants to share ideas and experiences, propose customs initiatives and stay updated with the latest customs developments. He hoped that the commitment and dedication of the A/P family would foster regional co-operation in addressing evolving global challenges. Other speakers, including Mr Saunders, also shared valuable insights on the future development of the WCO.
      
     The Conference features discussions on various customs initiatives and actions pertinent to the A/P region, enabling participants to share ideas and make decisions to enhance connectivity and trade facilitation amongst regional members, thereby promoting the development of customs affairs in the region. In addition, the Conference was enriched by wonderful performances from the Hong Kong Baptist University Affiliated School Wong Kam Fai Secondary and Primary School Chinese Drum Team at the welcome reception, as well as the Good Hope School Chinese Orchestra prior to the start of the first day Conference, demonstrating the vibrant Chinese culture and showcasing the talent, positive energy and potential of Hong Kong's young generation.

Ends/Monday, May 19, 2025
Issued at HKT 20:37

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