As global trade becomes faster, more complex and increasingly digital, customs authorities are under growing pressure to strengthen security without slowing down international commerce.
At this year's high-level international customs meeting in Tashkent, Kazakhstan demonstrated how technology can help achieve both goals, DKNews.kz reports.
From July 28 to 30, representatives of customs administrations from across the IREN partner network gathered in Uzbekistan's capital for the 11th Annual High-Level Interregional Meeting organized under the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the World Customs Organization's Global Container Control Programme.
The event brought together experts from UNODC, the World Customs Organization and customs services from partner countries to discuss the future of border security, risk management and digital customs administration.
Kazakhstan presents the next stage of customs digitalization
During the meeting, Kazakhstan introduced the results of its large-scale digital transformation of customs administration and outlined the priorities that will shape its next phase.
Among the key initiatives presented were:
- integration of artificial intelligence into the national risk management system;
- development of centralized remote customs control;
- creation of a national targeting center;
- expansion of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) framework;
- strengthening secure and seamless cargo transit along international transport corridors, including the strategically important Middle Corridor.
The presentation highlighted Kazakhstan's broader strategy of combining digital technologies with risk-based customs management to improve efficiency while maintaining high security standards.
AI, remote control and real-time monitoring
One of the most discussed presentations came from the Main Dispatch Department of the State Revenue Committee, which demonstrated Kazakhstan's operational centralized remote customs control system.
The platform enables customs authorities to monitor border checkpoints around the clock, analyze data received from non-intrusive inspection equipment, oversee customs inspections in real time, centrally release electronic customs declarations and coordinate control measures nationwide.
According to participants, this approach allows customs officers to make faster, more informed decisions while reducing unnecessary delays for legitimate trade.
International recognition
Kazakhstan's digital solutions attracted considerable attention from delegates attending the conference.
Participants described the country's experience as a successful example of integrating modern digital technologies into everyday customs operations, highlighting its practical application rather than theoretical concepts.
The presentation also reflected a broader international trend toward using artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to make customs control more accurate, efficient and transparent.
Building smarter targeting centers
Another major focus of the meeting was the future development of targeting centers across the IREN network.
Delegates discussed expanding the use of AI-powered analytics for identifying high-risk shipments, improving international information exchange between customs administrations and establishing an Advisory Council of Targeting Centers to strengthen cooperation and coordinate best practices.
These initiatives are expected to enhance collective efforts against cross-border crime while facilitating legitimate international trade.
Looking ahead
At the conclusion of the meeting, participating countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in customs modernization.
Future collaboration will focus on exchanging best practices, deploying advanced digital technologies, improving customs control efficiency, strengthening the security of international supply chains and combating the illicit trafficking of drugs, weapons and other prohibited goods.
For Kazakhstan, the meeting in Tashkent became another opportunity to demonstrate that digital transformation is no longer simply a modernization project—it is becoming a key instrument for securing borders, facilitating trade and positioning the country as one of the region's emerging leaders in smart customs administration.
