The Fiji Minister of Finance and National Planning, Ratu Jone Yavala Kubabola formally opened the conference and welcomed delegates and observers to Fiji and to the Conference, noting that the world has changed significantly in recent times with the need for strengthening trade security and combating trans-national crime in the Pacific and progressing regional cooperation regarding the economies and security of Pacific Island Countries.
The OCO Vice-Chair, Mr David Sode, expanded on this theme by referring to the particular customs challenges facing national Customs administrations in the region, such as the increasing complexity of trade, travel and law enforcement.
Mr Michel Danet, the Secretary General of the World Customs Organisation, gave an address covering issues facing all Customs administrations. Mr Danet’s presentation focussed on the impact of globalisation and the importance of balancing the need to collect revenue, facilitate trade and travel and strengthening security through securing the supply chain. Mr Danet also suggested the current WCO global standards regarding trade security and capacity building may provide a guide for Customs Administrations worldwide to implement modernisation programmes.