ROCB A/P joins Leaning Event for SASEC Customs Officials organized by ADB
18 August 2026, Online Meeting
On 18 August 2026, the Learning Event for the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC), supported by the Asian Development Bank, was held in a hybrid format in Malé, Maldives. Senior Customs officials from South Asia participated in person to discuss the digital future of regional trade.
From ROCB A/P, Mr. Jun Tajima, Head of ROCB A/P, and Mr. Takeru Yamazaki, Program Manager for South Asia, joined the event online as observers.
Ms. Fathimath Dhiyana, Commissioner General of Maldives Customs Service, chaired the meeting and delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of sustained regional cooperation. Mr. Yurendra Basnett, ADB’s Principal Regional Cooperation Specialist for South Asia, served as co-chair of the meeting.
The discussions focused on applying advanced data analytics to enhance operational effectiveness. The sessions provided a common understanding of effective use and exchange of data can support faster and better-coordinated operations, contributing to seamless trade processes and stronger border protection.
Speakers from academia and the private sector delivered presentations on AI‑based decision‑support systems and trade‑related data‑exchange platforms. These sessions underscored the potential of integrating artificial intelligence into customs risk management and highlighted the importance of establishing secure, interoperable frameworks for seamless cross‑border data exchange.
In the final session, Members presented their national perspectives and shared practical experiences regarding their use of digital technology. Delegates discussed both the achievements and challenges of implementing those advanced technologies, such as AI-driven cargo scanning and automated classification systems.
The event concluded with a shared vision of a digitally connected SASEC region, and reaffirmed the importance of moving toward paperless customs operations to facilitate secure and efficient trade across the region.
For more information, please contact ROCB A/P at rocb@rocbap.org
