The 247th/248th sessions of the Permanent Technical Committee (PTC) of the World Customs Organization (WCO) were held on May 5-8, 2025 in Brussels in a hybrid mode

Delegates from the WCO Member administrations, international organisations and private sector have discussed a wide range of topics, including the customs commitment to efficiency, security and prosperity (WCO theme for 2025);  review of SAFE Framework of Standards (FoS); Free Zones; Time Release Study; E-Commerce; Performance Measurement Management; Information and Communication Technology; Globally Networked Customs and Customs Data Exchange Platform; Rules of Origin; Smart Customs Project; Green Customs; WCO Fragile Borders Action Plan and other topics under the PTC Work Programme.

Within the framework of the Agenda, the importance of enabling and emerging technologies (e.g. use of AI) in customs processes was highlighted. Their use can improve risk management and enable balance regarding the efficiency of handling increased volumes of cargo and adequately dealing with potential security threats. Professionalism, developing service culture (despite the law enforcement role) and partnerships with other government agencies and the private sector are important as well.

Several updated WCO instruments have been endorsed (e.g. SAFE FoS 2025 edition; Guide to Measure the Time Required for the Release of Goods - TRS Guide, version 4, 2025; Compendium of Case Studies on Cross-Border E-Commerce 6th edition, 2025). Dealing with e-commerce challenges was one of the central topics of the PTC meeting. Further work on updating of the ICT Guidelines to the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) and the IT Guide for Executives was suggested, and options for improving electronic exchange of data between customs have been considered. Progress Report on the Revised PTC Work Programme 2022-2025 was presented, and the Draft PTC Programme (2025-2028) was discussed.

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The PTC is one of the few Committees created directly by the Convention establishing the Customs Cooperation Council, now known as the World Customs Organization (WCO). The PTC has important role in addressing various trade facilitation issues to serve the WCO’s vision, “Borders divide, Customs connects”. A number of conventions, frameworks of standards, guidelines, compendiums, and recommendations are forged and managed through the PTC.

Information on PTC sessions is available at:
https://www.wcoomd.org/en/topics/facilitation/resources/permanent-technical-committee.aspx