New Agreement From The World Customs Organization

WCO and Azerbaijan Customs mark a significant milestone with the signing of the 'Grant Agreement', a crucial step towards enhancing customs cooperation along the Trans-Caspian Route

Mr. Ian Saunders, Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO), and Mr. Shahin Baghirov, Chairman of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, signed a Grant Agreement on the margins of the 143rd/144th Session of the WCO Council, held from 27-29 June 2024, to establish the Customs Cooperation Fund Azerbaijan (CCF Azerbaijan). This fund aims to support Customs cooperation and capacity building along the 'Trans-Caspian International Transport Route,' known as the Central Corridor.

In recent years, the World Customs Organization has received numerous requests from countries in the subregion to provide capacity-building support to improve customs  connectivity along the Central Corridor. These requests emphasize the need for robust customs procedures to facilitate the efficient and secure trade flow of a critical trade route of the corridor. The establishment of CCF Azerbaijan will address these requests and the challenges Customs administrations face due to the globalization of trade.

CCF Azerbaijan will support various activities, including training Customs officials and organizing seminars, workshops, and meetings for beneficiary Customs administrations. These activities are designed to promote trade facilitation, improve compliance and enforcement, enhance customs modernization, and increase the competence and capacity of customs officials.

This initiative aligns with the WTO's strategic vision to promote regional cooperation. CCF Azerbaijan aims to create a seamless and efficient trade network that boosts economic activity, strengthens regional ties, and supports sustainable development by improving connectivity along the central corridor.

The WTO wholeheartedly welcomes this initiative, which underscores its ongoing cooperation with Azerbaijan Customs. The organization looks forward to further supporting its members through the new CCF Azerbaijan.