Pakistan inducted into World Customs Organisation commission after 70 years

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has been nominated to the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Policy Commission for the 2026-28 term, marking the first time in nearly seven decades that the country has secured a place on the body, according to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

The election was held during the Asia-Pacific regional meeting in Hong Kong from May 18 to 20. The nomination is now set to be placed before the WCO Council Session in June, where it is expected to be approved by acclamation.

Seat secured at Asia-Pacific meeting

According to the FBR, Pakistan won one of the five seats allocated to the Asia-Pacific region after a contest involving six candidates. The development gives Pakistan representation in the WCO’s principal strategic policy forum, which deals with major international customs issues.

The Policy Commission plays a central role in shaping global customs policy in areas including modernisation, trade facilitation, digital transformation, enforcement cooperation and governance reform. Pakistan’s inclusion in the forum places it among the countries participating in discussions on the future direction of customs administration at the international level.

FBR cites reforms and diplomatic engagement

The FBR said the nomination reflected both Pakistan’s long absence from WCO governance structures and the progress made by Pakistan Customs in recent years. It linked the development to modernisation efforts carried out through the Pakistan Single Window, broader digital customs reforms and regional connectivity initiatives.

The revenue authority also highlighted Pakistan’s increased engagement with the WCO and countries in the Asia-Pacific region. It said that since establishing a permanent mission to the WCO in Brussels in September 2023, Pakistan has strengthened its diplomatic presence and expanded its outreach within the organisation.

The nomination represents a notable step for Pakistan in international customs diplomacy, as the country moves to re-enter a key decision-making platform of the WCO after a prolonged gap. The final endorsement is due at the WCO Council Session in June.

The FBR’s announcement on Thursday presented the nomination as recognition of Pakistan Customs’ institutional reforms and its efforts to improve participation in international customs governance. The body’s work spans policy areas that affect cross-border trade procedures, customs enforcement coordination and administrative reform, making the commission an important forum for member states.

With the nomination now awaiting formal approval, Pakistan is set to take part in the commission’s work for the 2026-28 period if the WCO Council endorses the decision next month.