ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has achieved a historic milestone by profitable a seat on the World Customs Group (WCO) Coverage Fee for 2026-2028.
The election befell in the course of the Regional Heads of Customs Administrations (RHCA) assembly for the Asia Pacific area in Hong Kong from Could 18 to twenty, 2026.
That is Pakistan Customs’ first ever illustration on the Coverage Fee in practically 70 years of WCO membership since 1955.
The nomination will likely be formally permitted in the course of the WCO Council Session in June 2026.
Significance of the WCO:
The WCO Coverage Fee guides world customs insurance policies. It focuses on modernization, commerce facilitation, digital transformation, enforcement cooperation, and governance reforms. Pakistan’s election strengthens its position in shaping worldwide customs selections.
Pakistan makes historical past! Pakistan customs is elected to the World Customs Group Coverage Fee for the primary time in practically 70 years of membership! 🇵🇰(1/5) pic.twitter.com/eRRg5Q603P
— Pakistan Customs – DG Communications & PR (@Pak_Customs) May 20, 2026
Six candidates competed for 5 seats within the Asia Pacific area. Pakistan’s bid highlighted its lengthy absence from main WCO buildings, its digital reforms, and regional connectivity initiatives.
The marketing campaign concerned practically two years of strategic outreach and diplomatic engagement. Mr. Syed Asad Raza Rizvi, Pakistan’s Everlasting Consultant to the WCO, led consultations with member nations.
The institution of Pakistan Customs’ everlasting mission in Brussels in September 2023 strengthened these efforts.
During the RHCA meeting, Pakistan’s Single Window (PSW) mannequin acquired particular consideration.
Representatives Mr. Naveed Abbas Memon and Mr. Salman Chaudhry showcased PSW’s digital integration and commerce facilitation framework. Their presentation acquired reward from regional customs administrations.
On the sidelines of the assembly, Pakistan signed a ValidAP settlement with Hong Kong customs. This settlement focuses on digital commerce cooperation and knowledge trade within the Asia Pacific area.
The success was achieved via shut coordination between Pakistan’s WCO mission in Brussels, the Worldwide Customs Wing of FBR, and the Pakistan delegation on the RHCA assembly.
Recognition and affect:
FBR and Pakistan Customs appreciated the efforts of Mr. Rizvi, Mr. Memon, Mr. Chaudhry, and Mr. Irfan Javed. Their teamwork secured Pakistan’s historic victory.
This achievement raises Pakistan customs’ world profile and opens alternatives for technical cooperation and future worldwide customs coverage engagement.
