25–27 February 2026, Brussels, Belgium

ROCB A/P attended the 17th Session of the Capacity Building Committee (CBC) of the World Customs Organization, held in Brussels, Belgium, from 25 to 27 February 2026. The meeting was convened under the theme “The Impact Imperative: Exploring Ways to Measure and Communicate Capacity-Building Success.” Mr. Jun Tajima, Head of ROCB A/P, together with his colleagues, Mr. Deokjoong Kim, Ms. Asuka Nagamatsu, Ms. Grace Ye participated in the Session in person, while Ms. Chananchita Rueng-O-Cha joined the meeting online.

The Committee focused on strengthening the impact assessment of WCO capacity-building support and promoting more evidence-based and sustainable reforms. ROCB A/P actively contributed to the discussions by making interventions from the floor, particularly encouraging the Secretariat to make greater use of WCO Diagnostic Tools or similar tools when defining objectives and assessing impact. ROCB A/P also suggested that the Secretariat take the lead in establishing a discussion platform for Accredited Experts to better utilize these tools and to keep their knowledge up to date.

Further discussions addressed the operationalization of the Capacity Building Paradigm, including the blended-first learning approach, standardized curriculum development, and the integration of performance evidence into reform design. ROCB A/P reiterated that Regional Offices can contribute by reflecting regional conditions and supporting the coherent implementation of WCO frameworks.

The Secretariat reported on progress in advancing Gender Equality and Diversity (GED). An update on the implementation of the Mercator Programme was also presented, highlighting responsiveness and the long-term sustainability of reform efforts. In addition, the Secretariat orally reported on the development of the ROCB Reference Document, which remains under drafting. ROCB A/P welcomed the update and emphasized the importance of continued consultation with ROCBs to ensure clarity of roles and alignment with regional needs.

During the Session, ROCB A/P also engaged in discussions with the Secretariat and Member administrations during the breaks, strengthening partnerships and exploring further collaboration aimed at enhancing effective and impactful capacity building in the region.

For further information, please contact: rocb@rocbap.org.