2016 WCO IT Conference & Exhibition

Webb Fontaine proudly sponsored and participated in the 2016 World Customs Organization (WCO) IT Conference, held in Dakar, Senegal, from June 1st to 3rd, 2016. This prestigious event provided a platform to discuss the intersection of technology and customs operations, attracting a diverse group of stakeholders.

2016 conference objectives

1. Explore implications of the digital world on customs and other Government agencies in the future. The conference aimed to understand how digital transformation is reshaping customs operations and regulatory tasks, anticipating future challenges and opportunities.

2. Showcase private sector and Governments’ most recent technological developments. Highlighting the latest innovations from both sectors, the conference showcased new capabilities and opportunities that enhance trade facilitation and regulatory performance.

3. Monitor emerging trends in IT solutions. Focused on solutions enabling the exchange of information between customs agencies and other bodies, the event emphasised the importance of improving coordination and efficiency.

4. Seek potential areas of synergy among stakeholders. The conference aimed to identify collaborative opportunities at national, regional, and international levels, fostering integration within the customs community.

The event was a major success, with over 750 delegates in attendance. These included representatives from customs and other regulatory agencies, the private sector, international organisations, development partners, academia, and other stakeholders. The diverse participation underscored the conference's significance and its role in shaping the future of customs operations.

Webb Fontaine played a significant role in the conference by chairing a panel on training. This panel focused on identifying strategies to maintain agility in keeping up with rapid technological advancements. Discussions addressed gaps in qualifications and skills, emphasising the importance of internet access for staff and the use of modern tools such as e-learning modules, chat rooms, social media, and networks. The insights gathered from this panel underscored the need for continuous training and knowledge development to ensure that customs personnel are equipped to handle the evolving demands of their roles.

In summary, Webb Fontaine's participation in the 2016 WCO IT Conference highlighted its commitment to advancing customs technology and training. The conference provided valuable insights into the future of customs operations, emphasising the importance of digital transformation and the continuous development of skills and knowledge in the sector.

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