1 July 2025 — The South African Revenue Service (SARS), led by Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, concluded a transformative two-year tenure as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) during the 145th/146th WCO Council Sessions at WCO Headquarters in Brussels. Attended by over 400 representatives from 186 member administrations, which collectively manage 98% of global trade, the sessions marked a pivotal moment for global Customs. These sessions were held alongside the 92nd Policy Commission and Private Sector Consultative Group meetings. High-level bilateral engagements further solidified SARS’s leadership in advancing trade facilitation and security worldwide.
WCO: Driving Global Trade Through Collaboration
Founded in 1952, the WCO is the foremost intergovernmental body dedicated to enhancing Customs efficiency and effectiveness. Its 186 members balance enforcement and facilitation to secure borders, combat illicit trade, and drive economic prosperity. The WCO Council, its highest decision-making body, sets the strategic course for Customs administrations globally. Under Commissioner Kieswetter’s chairmanship (2023–2025), the WCO embraced a bold vision of a Smart, Morden Customs ecosystem, delivering impactful outcomes to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.
Strategic Milestones and Global Impact
The 2025 Council Sessions adopted the WCO’s 2025–2028 Strategic Plan, a roadmap prioritising technology, resilience, and inclusivity. Key initiatives included:
- WCO Modernisation Programme: Enhancing governance and Secretariat efficiency to better serve members.
- SAFE Framework of Standards: Strengthening supply chain security while streamlining legitimate trade.
- Fragile Borders Action Plan: Addressing vulnerabilities to curb illicit trade in high-risk regions.
- Gender Equality and Diversity Work Plan: Promoting inclusivity across global Customs.
- e-Commerce Administration: Adapting to the surge in digital trade.
- Harmonised System (HS) Enhancements: Refining global trade classification for precision.
- Capacity-Building Paradigm: Equipping members with tools to tackle modern challenges.
In his closing remarks at the WCO Council Session on 28 June 2025, Commissioner Kieswetter reflected on the urgency of these efforts: “We stand at a crossroads, with geopolitical tensions, climate disruptions, and illicit trade testing our resilience. Yet, Customs remains the backbone of secure, inclusive trade. Together, we are building bridges that connect economies and protect societies”. The Commissioner called for collective responsibility, urging members to “harness our shared expertise to create a Customs community that is agile, inclusive, and future-ready”.
Transformative Leadership (2023–2025)
Commissioner Kieswetter’s tenure redefined the WCO as a forward-looking organisation, championing digitalisation, inclusivity, and public-private partnerships. Key achievements included:
- Institutional Reforms: Streamlined governance, a successful leadership transition, and the acquisition of a permanent Brussels headquarters.
- Strategic Vision: Implementation of the Modernisation Plan, focusing on the themes of Technology & Innovation, Green Customs, and Governance & Accountability.
- Global Advocacy: elevating Customs’ role in mobilising domestic resources and sustainable development, rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu— shared responsibility and mutual support.
- Member Engagement: Fostering diplomatic cohesion to amplify diverse voices.
Reflecting on his tenure, Kieswetter stated, “It has been an honour to serve this vibrant community. Our collective achievements — from modernisation to inclusivity — reflect the power of unity. Let us carry this momentum forward, ensuring Customs remains a force for global good”. His leadership delivered measurable progress, leaving a legacy of resilience and innovation.
South Africa Elected WCO East and Southern Africa Vice-Chair
South Africa was unanimously elected Vice-Chair of the WCO Eastern Southern Africa (ESA) region, effective 1 July 2025. As part of the WCO’s six regions, SARS will drive digital transformation, revenue mobilisation, Customs modernisation, and regional cooperation, reinforcing its commitment to effective governance and sustainability.
Historic Bilateral Agreements
On the sidelines of the Council Sessions, SARS forged groundbreaking partnerships:
- Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs): Signed with the United States (the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, CTPAT); the United Kingdom’s (HMRC); and India’s CBIC under SARS’s Authorised Economic Operator Programme (AEO) Programme. The Mutual Recognition Agreement signed with the United States is a first for an African nation, and underscores SARS’s operational excellence, enabling South African exporters to access the U.S. market with greater speed and security.
- Memorandum of Understanding: Signed with the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department for enhanced cooperation.
- Cooperation Agreement: Concluded with China’s Xiamen District (GACC) to streamline Customs processes.
These agreements boost trade efficiency, cut costs, and improve transparency, benefiting global importers, exporters, and economies.
A Unified Vision for Global Trade
In his closing remarks, Commissioner Kieswetter underscored the WCO’s unifying mission: “Borders may divide, but Customs connects — bridging nations, securing supply chains, and fostering prosperity. Let us remain steadfast in this purpose”. These words encapsulate SARS’s commitment to a resilient, inclusive Customs ecosystem that drives sustainable growth.
The week’s outcomes align with SARS’s Vision and Strategic Intent, reinforcing its role as a global leader. As the Commissioner concluded, “Our work this week has laid a foundation for a safer, more connected world. Together, we will continue to transform Customs for the benefit of all”.
We attach Annexure 1 for further information.
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