The Kuwait General Administration of Customs has been re-elected as member on the Audit Committee of the World Customs Organization (WCO) for an additional year, until July 2026. This renewed mandate came through a vote of confidence during the WCO Council’s 145th and 146th joint sessions, held in Brussels from June 26 to 28, 2025.
In a press release issued Saturday, the Administration stated that the re-election represents a recognition of Kuwait’s progress in digital transformation, enhanced transparency, and strengthened customs governance — three areas where it has made significant advancements in recent years, reports KUNA.
The Kuwaiti delegation to the WCO meetings was headed by Fatima Al-Qallaf, Director General of the General Administration of Customs. She highlighted the importance of Kuwait’s role within the international customs community, especially in modernizing its systems and promoting cooperation with global partners.
The Council meetings addressed a wide range of strategic topics, including the integration of artificial intelligence in customs operations, the handling of goods impacted by transfer pricing, reform of financial systems, and international efforts to combat customs smuggling.
Al-Qallaf emphasized that the renewal of Kuwait’s Audit Committee membership “reflects the international community’s trust in the effective role of Kuwait Customs.” She pointed to Kuwait’s achievements in electronic interconnectivity with government agencies, which has significantly improved the efficiency and transparency of customs clearance procedures.
The Audit Committee plays a key role in ensuring accountability and oversight within the World Customs Organization, which consists of 184 member countries. Kuwait’s continued participation positions it at the forefront of international customs policy and reform initiatives.
