BRUSSELS : The World Customs Organization (WCO), represented by its Secretary General, Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), represented by its Secretary General Mr. Mathias Cormann, signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance their collaboration.

At the signing, WCO Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya remarked, “In an ever-evolving global landscape, it is paramount for organizations like the WCO and OECD to collaborate even more closely. This updated Memorandum of Understanding signifies our unwavering commitment to enhance Customs administrations effectiveness and tackle challenges like illicit trade and commercial fraud. Together, we are paving the way for a safer and more prosperous global economy.”

The OECD is an international organisation dedicated to formulating and implementing better policies for better lives, and the World Customs Organization (WCO) stands as an independent intergovernmental body aiming to boost the effectiveness and proficiency of Customs administrations. 

Historically, on 19 April 2016, these two entities initiated their collaboration through an MoU. The primary objective was to gain deeper insights into the socioeconomic impacts of illicit trade and public revenues, and to propose measures that strengthen the relevant regulatory and public governance frameworks.