Hong Kong Customs, starting October 22, held the 34th World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia/Pacific (A/P) Regional Contact Points (RCP) Meeting for four consecutive days, with the meeting concluding today (October 25).
This four-day meeting is the first large-scale regional event hosted by Hong Kong Customs since its assumption of the Vice-Chairpersonship in July this year. The meeting gathered more than 70 representatives from A/P customs administrations as well as from the WCO's regional entities, and included a series of thematic presentations and discussions focusing on A/P regional concerns. Participants explored customs initiatives, enforcement strategies and training experiences from diverse perspectives, while fostering co-operation and information sharing among A/P members.
The meeting started with a welcoming speech delivered on October 22 by the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Ms Louise Ho, in the capacity of WCO Vice-Chairperson for the A/P Region (APVC). Ms Ho highlighted that the meeting provided an important platform for the A/P members and regional entities to discuss and formulate global policies for the world customs community. Members were able to share ideas and experience, suggest customs initiatives, and stay updated with recent customs developments. She hoped that the commitment and dedication of the A/P family would facilitate regional co-operation to respond to evolving global challenges. Ms Ho also outlined the APVC's workplan for the coming two years.
In her concluding remarks, as the meeting ended today, Ms Ho reckoned that the four-day meeting had yielded fruitful results. Firstly, the A/P members reaffirmed the regional development strategies for the next two years. Secondly, an innovative concept of utilising blockchain technology to develop a validation platform for regional development was explored during the meeting. Lastly, in-depth discussions on reviewing regional policies were also conducted at the meeting. She expressed appreciation to all delegates for their diligent participation, insightful contributions, and unwavering commitment to driving positive changes in regional development, making the meeting a resounding success.
Ends/Friday, October 25, 2024
