Skopje, 8 March 2023 (MIA) – Customs’ role in securing economic flow continuity and the timely arrival of aid in times of crisis was highlighted at the opening of a three-day event organized by the World Customs Organization and the Customs Administration in Skopje.

Kunio Mikuriya, Secretary-General of the World Customs Organization, Slavica Kutirov, director of the Customs Administration, and Satoru Takahashi, advisor at the Embassy of Japan, spoke at the event, which aims to exchange positive experiences in times of crisis, as well as raising awareness for the contribution of customs in the protection of societies and securing continuity of the business.

Kutirov highlighted the readiness and capability of the institution to deal with new challenges in times of crisis.

“The past three years were a true challenge for customs, when we faced the unpredictability and fear of the new conditions in the world. In these conditions, at the very start of the pandemic, we showed readiness and capability to adapt to new conditions, enabling continuity in the cross-border supply chain in order to minimize the overall negative influence on the economies and societies. Green corridors were established for international transport of sensitive goods, with a continuous data exchange before arrival through the SEED regional system, making the flow of goods uninterrupted in the new conditions. We minimized the need for physical interaction while simultaneously accelerating the procedures and lowering the costs for economic operators to finalize customs formalities,” she said.

Kunio Mikuriya highlighted the organization’s long-term experience in disaster relief and the importance of cooperation with international partner organizations, other government agencies and affected parties to secure quick and adequate help for citizens affected by disasters.

Photo: Customs Administration