On 5 and 6 September 2024, the second series of meetings for the National Contact Points (NCPs) under the Smart Customs Project took place, following the inaugural session held in June 2024.
The meetings brought together 85 NCPs, marking another significant step forward in the project’s development.
During these discussions, the project team unveiled the agile approach to developing the Smart Customs community portal. This approach will include progressive releases designed to meet core user needs while facilitating comprehensive user consultations on desired functionalities. The first phase, scheduled from September to December 2024, will see the initial release of the portal. This release will serve as a vital hub for key project information and provide a secure space for restricted users namely, NCPs. A contact list of national contact points and stakeholders who have provided their consent will be shared through the Portal, enhancing communication and allowing for bilateral exchanges.
A highlight of the meetings was a brainstorming session where participants exchanged concise advice on technology adoption. These insights, presented as easily digestible recommended actions ("dos") and practices to avoid ("don'ts") will be integrated into the second release of the Smart Customs Portal.
Recognizing the importance of thorough research prior to the adoption of specific technologies, participants were also engaged in contributing existing research, which will be published in a dedicated research corner of the WCO Smart Customs Portal. This research will complement findings from stakeholder consultations with international organizations, the private sector, and academic institutions.
Looking ahead, the project team will actively engage volunteer NCPs in shaping the format of upcoming forums. Additionally, there will be an exploration of the possibility of establishing a structured database of Members’ experiences, further enriching the resources available through the portal.
The second round of NCP meetings has set a strong foundation for the next stages of the Smart Customs Project. With the first phase of the portal launch imminent, and a clear plan for ongoing user engagement, the project is well-positioned to foster enhanced collaboration and innovation among customs authorities. The active participation and contributions of NCPs are pivotal as the project continues to evolve, ensuring that the Smart Customs community portal becomes a cornerstone of forward-looking Customs cooperation.