Abu Dhabi Customs Partners With Brazil To Launch Trusted Digital Trade Corridor Pilot Project

A delegation from the UAE, led by Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori of Abu Dhabi Customs, attended the 2024 WCO Technology Conference & Exhibition. This event, hosted by Brazil's Tax Authority in Rio de Janeiro from November 12 to 14, focused on "Digital Frontiers: Customs Embracing Innovation with Traditional and New Partners." The World Customs Organisation extended the invitation to participate.

During the conference, a notable meeting took place between Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori and Claudia Regina Thomaz, Brazil's Undersecretary of Customs Administration. They announced a groundbreaking partnership between Abu Dhabi Customs and Brazil's Tax Authority. This collaboration aims to enhance bilateral customs and trade relations through the Trusted Digital Trade Corridor project. This initiative is a first in the Middle East and involves cooperation with the Ministry of Economy and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.

The Trusted Digital Trade Corridor project reflects a mutual vision to leverage technology for trade facilitation. It seeks to streamline customs procedures, reduce transaction times, bolster data security, and boost cross-border trade efficiency. The Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs also engaged in discussions with Ian Saunders, Secretary General of the World Customs Organization. Their conversation centered on customs' future amid digital transformation and global trends.

The Secretary General lauded UAE Customs' advancements in digital transformation, particularly praising Abu Dhabi Customs' leadership in launching the pilot project with Brazil. He expressed full support for initiatives that aim to enhance global trade through advanced technology.

The 2024 WCO Technology Conference & Exhibition attracted over 1,200 participants from 95 countries. Attendees included customs authorities, border agencies, technology providers, international organisations, development partners, academia, and others involved in global trade. The conference explored innovative solutions to improve trade facilitation, border security, and supply chain resilience.

Abu Dhabi Customs contributed as a speaker in two main sessions at the conference. The first session was titled "A New Era in Land Transport: Pushing Boundaries with Data and Technology." The second session focused on "Unveiling the Power of Blockchain: Transforming Customs Operations for Seamless Trade Facilitation." These sessions highlighted cutting-edge technologies reshaping customs operations.

The collaboration between Abu Dhabi Customs and Brazil's Tax Authority marks a significant step forward in enhancing international trade relations through technology. By focusing on digital transformation and strategic partnerships, both entities aim to set new standards for efficiency and security in global trade practices.

With inputs from WAM