Pacific border security needs to be strengthened against criminal networks who use the Pacific as a conduit for the transhipment of hard drugs into the markets of New Zealand and Australia. This was a key challenge that Cook Islands Prime Minister, Mark Brown, urged Pacific heads of Customs to address, at the 26^th Annual Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) Conference, on 29 July, in Rarotonga.

The conference called for innovation and collaboration across customs agencies throughout Oceania.

“We must work hand-in-hand - sharing information, expertise and resources, to disrupt drug trafficking routes, dismantle criminal networks, and safeguard our communities,” PM Brown said in his opening speech.

He also spoke on the role of customs agencies, “Customs agencies play an indispensable role in promoting and facilitating trade, safeguarding our borders, and generating revenue for our governments."

OCO Chairperson Rachael Goodwin recognised the organisation’s significant achievements in border security, disrupting criminal networks and promoting gender equality. She also highlighted the need for ongoing vigilance and adaptability in the face of evolving threats.

OCO Head of Secretariat Nancy T. Oraka outlined the organisation’s commitment to strengthening Pacific customs administrations through various initiatives, including:

• Developing a new generation of professionals with a focus on empowering women.
• Enhancing collaboration and intelligence exchange through the Information Sharing Working Group.
• Implementing the Harmonized System and Asycuda World for trade facilitation.
• Launching a Customs Brokers Online Training program to boost revenue collection.
• Conducting in-depth reviews of WTO agreements and risk management frameworks.

Ms. Oraka reaffirmed OCO’s dedication to enhancing border security, facilitating trade, and building resilient customs administrations across the Pacific.