// EQUALITY: TRADE AND INVESTMENT
S erving data-driven customs for a connected world is not only the title of the World Customs Organiza- tion’s Strategic Plan for 2025–2028, but also a reflection of the significant evolu- tion of the role of customs in global trade. When our 186 members of the global cus- toms community approved this plan, it signalled both their shared priorities and an ambition for the WCO to sharpen its focus through prioritising and empower- ing customs to drive prosperity, security and sustainability. Digital supply chains, real-time data exchanges and many operational impera- tives have challenged customs to innovate and adapt how trade is managed at our borders. The strategic plan’s focus on technology, e-commerce and green cus- toms reflects today’s realities, as the ever-evolving global trading system has transformed not only what crosses our borders, but also how, when and why we act at those borders. The WCO is set to deliver on these focus areas following recent modernisation of its internal structure to align resources to efficiently execute its strategic plan and address the issues of importance to its members. However, that transformation
In an era of digital supply chains and complex cross-border flows, customs stands at the front line of global trade. Harnessing data, technology and international cooperation can make trade more sustainable and secure Facilitating secure and efficient global trade requires the steady hand of customs
Ian Saunders, secretary general, World Customs Organization
54 // G20 SOUTH AFRICA: THE JOHANNESBURG SUMMIT 2025
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