Technology-enabled trade, such as E-Commerce, is already reshaping Customs and government policies and procedures. Devices such as drones and 3D printers are showing signs of potentially impacting the operation of Customs and other border agencies. What are the expected implications? On the other hand, how can governments reap the benefits of technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence and cloud computing towards boosting cross-border trade? Have strategies for digital transformation been adjusted to the accelerated pace of change?

Shippers and logistics operators more commonly opt for Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to ensure better customer service and increased competitiveness for their businesses. A tendency towards greener, safer climate solutions with lower CO₂ emissions shows a steady trend, supported by actions towards implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This session will explore to what extent Customs and other border agencies can leverage information collected through smart devices to support carriers and logistics companies to move goods swiftly and in a more environmentally-friendly manner across borders.

“Safer supply chain by diagonal supervision”

“Shaping Technologies for SMART Borders”

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), in 2016 there were a staggering 3.8 billion air travelers, a number it predicts will balloon to 7.2 billion passengers by 2035—a near doubling of current levels. Large airports are increasingly introducing innovation and technology that is changing the way we work, move, purchase goods etc. Are Customs and border agencies keeping up with these changes and making full use of API/PNR, biometrics, robotics and other technological and other developments that can speed up the movement of passengers?

Millions of specimens from all species of fauna and flora are exploited for a profit estimated at $91- 258 billion USD per year. Many of these are illegally exported. On the other hand, trafficking of cultural objects has gained the attention of senior policy makers and law enforcement officers around the world, particularly due to its links with money laundering and terrorist financing. Similarly, the high volumes and increasingly sophisticated nature of trade in counterfeit and pirated goods pose serious concerns. The enforcement community is increasingly turning towards technologies to support the combatting of these types of illegal trade. Is there a sufficient level of awareness of the latest available technological solutions and of the benefits they offer?

Self-driving trucks, port community systems, smart containers and Virgin Hyperloop One are just a few of the innovations introduced by the transport Industry. What are the implications for border processes and procedures in the future? Likewise, how can innovative solutions for the more traditional modes of transport help meet the Customs and other border agencies’ requirements?