2 April 2026, Kathmandu, Nepal

Mr. Jun Tajima, Head of ROCB A/P, and Ms. Asuka Nagamatsu, Program Manager for South Asia, visited the Asian Development Bank, Nepal Resident Mission in Kathmandu on 2 April 2026.

The visit took place with the objective of enhancing understanding of ADB’s ongoing assistance to Customs administrations in the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) region.

The ROCB A/P was welcomed by Mr. Manbar Singh Khadka, Co-Program Team Leader of the SASEC Customs and Logistics Reforms Program, together with Consultants Mr. Mandesh Maharjan and Mr. Lal Bahadur Khatari.

The visit commenced with an introduction of the WCO and ROCB A/P, followed by an exchange of views on supports provided to the Department of Customs of Nepal. Key achievements highlighted Nepal’s Customs Reform and Modernization (CRM) Plan (2021–2026) and next phases of CRM Plan 2026-2031.

ADB also shared progress under ongoing initiatives, including the introduction of e-payment systems linked to ASYCUDA World for the Department of Customs of Nepal,the development of an online valuation database system, and a risk-based approach for transaction-based Post Clearance Audit (PCA) to enhance efficiency in customs clearance. These initiatives aim to reduce paper-based procedures, and align practices with international standards that enhances transparency.

Discussions briefly covered regional initiatives under the SASEC framework, including efforts to advance paperless trade, Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (R-ECTS) and other reform areas to facilitate transit and improve connectivity. Also, a discussion on the Nepal National Single Window (NNSW) and improvement. 

Both sides expressed their willingness to strengthen future cooperation and information sharing on capacity-building initiatives to further support Customs modernization and trade facilitation in the South Asia region.

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