UAE Advances In Customs Tech Earn WCO Endorsement At Global Conference

Ian Saunders, Secretary-General of the World Customs Organisation, highlighted the UAE’s advanced use of digital tools in customs operations. Saunders said the country’s approach shows strong awareness of how technology and data support modern customs systems. The comments came during a press conference at the WCO Technology Conference and Exhibition 2026 in Abu Dhabi.

Saunders explained that the event at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre aims to reflect the organisation’s commitment to technology and data. According to Saunders, customs administrations must adapt as trade volumes grow and supply chains become more complex. Technology now sits at the centre of efforts to protect borders while facilitating legitimate trade.

Saunders said the WCO organises the technology conference on a near-annual schedule and attaches strong importance to its outcomes. Rising global trade, expanding security threats, and more complex trade flows are driving this focus. Saunders noted that customs authorities must take the best possible decisions quickly, allowing goods to move smoothly without weakening community security.

The conference seeks to open detailed discussions on several priority themes. Saunders said the WCO aims to deepen understanding of data-related challenges and identify practical ways to raise customs performance. Delegates are also expected to examine how to secure reliable information and pinpoint technological tools that help customs administrations operate more efficiently across borders.

Saunders stated that the organisation closely follows the experience of UAE Customs. This includes the adoption of modern technology, expanded digital services, and systematic use of innovation. He noted that these efforts help maintain strong control of procedures while improving efficiency levels. The UAE model demonstrates how customs can use technology and data to support both security and trade facilitation.

From the WCO’s perspective, Saunders said studying the practices of UAE Customs and other leading administrations holds particular value. Member administrations across 187 countries have very different capabilities and experience levels. Saunders pointed out that the WCO often bases global customs standards and recommended approaches on what advanced administrations have already tested and refined.

Saunders added that developing more innovative uses of data and technology in customs draws on these leading examples. Experiences from the UAE, regional partners, and other states worldwide help less advanced administrations move faster to higher operational levels. Lessons from these early adopters support a shared global effort to improve customs mechanisms and overall performance.

With inputs from WAM