Smart Customs Project releases a case study on the adoption of AI and ML in China Customs and an AI/ML Readiness Self-Assessment Tool

A detailed case study on the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in China Customs has just been published on the WCO website and in the Smart Customs Community Portal. This case study presents the information collected through the first domestic study mission on AI/ML adoption, held in China from 28 October  to 1 November 2024. In order to help bridge the digital gap among WCO Members, the case study contributes valuable insights into critical aspects of AI/ML adoption such as strategy and vision, data management, leadership and governance, policy arrangements, legal framework, technology and tools, skills and training, stakeholder engagement, costs, innovation, and future plans for leveraging AI/ML technologies.

The General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC) currently has 62 smart models at various stages of implementation, including 22 that are in the pilot phase and two that are fully operational. The case study provides details of several use cases, including the Intelligent Control Model (TianXuan), Smart Image Analysis and other intelligent models under development.

In addition to the case study, the WCO Smart Customs Project has released the AI/ML Readiness Self-Assessment Tool. It is designed to help Customs administrations evaluate their readiness for AI/ML adoption, identify weaknesses, explore potential use case and improvement opportunities, and build internal capacities to strategically leverage AI and ML technologies.  Both this tool and the case study are available on the Members’ website.

A comprehensive report on AI/ML adoption will be published shortly to supplement these efforts and provide Customs administrations with a thorough understanding of the requirements and opportunities associated with AI/ML adoption in order to make evidence-based decisions.

Given the valuable insights offered by these tools, Members are invited to discuss specific aspects of AI/ML implementation through the Smart Customs Community Portal and to share their experiences and observations regarding best practices and pitfalls in the field of technology adoption.

For more information, please contact smartcustoms@wcoomd.org or visit the Smart Customs Community Portal.