29–30 October 2026, Brussels, Belgium

The WCO Smart Customs Project Global Event was held from 29 to 30 October 2026 in Brussels, Belgium. Organized by the World Customs Organization, the event opened with remarks delivered by the WCO Deputy Secretary General at the opening ceremony. It comprehensively reviewed the achievements of the Smart Customs Project, formally launched the updated WCO Study Report on Disruptive Technologies, and featured in-depth exchanges on the application of disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain in Customs, as well as on "Technology and Innovation"—the foremost of the WCO's three strategic focus areas. The WCO Regional Office for Capacity Building for Asia and the Pacific (ROCB A/P) participated online.

The newly released report focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning, blockchain and cloud computing, with new analysis of governance, legal frameworks, interoperability and organizational readiness, providing a reference for Members' technology decision-making. The event also covered the Project's AI/ML and Blockchain packages, AI governance and deployment readiness in Customs, and Member experiences in applying disruptive technologies. It was announced that the 2027 WCO Technology Conference and Exhibition will take place from 9 to 11 March 2027 in the Republic of Korea.

The ROCB A/P will continue to follow the Smart Customs Project's deliverables, with a view to understanding and supporting the capacity-building needs of Asia-Pacific Members in applying its tools and knowledge products.

For more information, please contact ROCB A/P at rocb@rocbap.org.