PROGRAM
| Day 2 – Wednesday, 5 March | |
| 9:00 – 10:30 | Session 4: Generative Artificial Intelligence for Trade Facilitation: Future of Trade and Customs Services In recent years, Artificial Intelligent (AI) has entered another stage. Along with increasing machine power, and available tremendous number of data sets, generative AI, which refers to AI models capable of generating new data, such as text, and images, has been gaining significant attention and acceptance. In the context of customs administration, generative AI can present numerous opportunities to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and improve decision-making processes. For example, natural language processing (NLP) based generative models can assist in summarizing and extracting key information from trade documents, facilitating more efficient document analysis. Generative AI can power conversational agents or chatbots capable of providing personalized assistance to traders, answering queries, and guiding them through customs procedures. Moderator: Mr. Byeongjo Kong, DIG, ADB
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| 10:30 – 10:45 | Coffee Break |
| 10:45 – 12:15 | Session 5: Data-Driven Customs and Trade: Enhancing Operations with Advanced Analytics The digital transformation of global trade has ushered in an era where data is the new asset of customs operations. As cross-border transactions grow in volume and complexity, customs authorities worldwide are turning to advanced data management techniques and machine learning to navigate this data-rich landscape. These technologies offer unprecedented opportunities to enhance risk assessment, improve resource allocation, and streamline customs procedures. At the heart of this transformation lies the challenge of harnessing vast and varied data streams. From electronic declarations and cargo manifests to historical trade records and real-time sensor data, customs agencies must grapple with expanding information. This session will explore the journey of data usage in customs operations - from collection and processing to analysis and application. The discussion will shed light on the transformative potential of machine learning in customs. Real-world examples will illustrate how these technologies are already revolutionizing cargo risk assessment, resource allocation, and decision-making processes in customs agencies. By the session's end, participants will have gained a comprehensive understanding of how data management and machine learning are reshaping the future of customs operations. Moderator: Ms. Soo Hyun Kim, Economic Affairs Officer, UN ESCAP
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| 12:15 – 13:30 | Lunch at Multi-Function Hall 2-3 |
| 13:30 – 15:00 | Session 6: From Legacy to Leading-Edge: Modernizing the National Single Window for Today’s Trade Needs The National Single Window System has long been a cornerstone of trade facilitation, providing a unified platform for traders to submit regulatory documents. However, in the rapidly evolving digital landscape, there is a pressing need to modernize these systems to meet the demands of contemporary global trade. This session explores the latest technological advancements and best practices in implementing state-of-the-art Single Window Systems. We will examine how emerging technologies such as cloud computing and APIs are revolutionizing these platforms, enhancing their efficiency, security, and user experience. Participants will gain insights into real-world case studies of successful modern Single Window implementations, learning about the challenges faced and strategies employed to overcome them. The session can also cover the integration of advanced analytics, the use of APIs for seamless data exchange with other systems, and the implementation of user-centric design principles to boost adoption rates. Speakers will discuss how these modern systems are not only streamlining trade processes but also contributing to increased transparency, reduced corruption, and improved compliance in cross-border trade. Moderator: Ms. Kanya Satyani Sasradipoera, Principal Regional Cooperation Specialist, SARC, ADB
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| 15:00 – 15:15 | Coffee Break |
| 15:15 – 16:45 | Session 7: Building Trust and Transparency: Technological Solutions to Enhance Customs Integrity In today's complex global trade environment, building trust and transparency among stakeholders has become increasingly critical yet challenging. Customs authorities, traders, and other participants in international trade face persistent challenges in verifying the authenticity of documents, tracking the movement of goods, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining secure information sharing across borders. The lack of transparency can lead to inefficiencies, increased compliance costs, delays in customs clearance, and vulnerabilities to fraud and illicit trade. These challenges are further complicated by the growing volume of cross-border transactions and the need to balance security with trade facilitation. This session will explore innovative approaches and technological solutions that can enhance trust and transparency in customs operations and international trade. Participants will examine how various technologies, including blockchain and distributed ledger technology, can create tamper-proof audit trails, enable secure information sharing, and foster trust among trade stakeholders. The discussion will cover practical implementations of these solutions in areas such as supply chain visibility, document verification, and customs compliance. Moderator: Ms. Clariesse Chan, Associate Economic Affairs Officer, UNCTAD
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| 16:45 – 17:00 | Closing Session Conference Summary and Closing Remarks
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| 17:30 – 19:30 | Cocktail Dinner at Multi-Function Halls 2-3 |