New IAPH / WCO guidelines
The International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) and the World Customs organization (WCO) have released revised guidelines on cooperation between customs and port authorities.
First launched in 2023, the new edition adds input from the World Shipping Council and focuses on closer public-private collaboration. The release coincided with a WCO conference in Brussels on safeguarding maritime supply chains, where customs bodies, ports, operators and law enforcement agencies reviewed risks from illicit trade.
"This joint document reflects evolving priorities, including digitalisation, risk management and joint enforcement," said WCO secretary general Ian Saunders. IAPH managing director Patrick Verhoeven added that the updated version recognises the need to engage all stakeholders, including shipping lines, to ensure efficiency and resilience. (js)