This Conference is a follow up to the Global Dialogue on Capacity Building that took place in Johannesburg on 4 April 2007 which was attended by 100 participants from major donor institutions, multilateral and regional development banks, development agencies, international institutions and Customs services.

Customs services are key players in the global trade, which is an essential driver for economic growth and prosperity. An efficient and balanced management of international trade will encourage and facilitate trade; attract inward investment; and protect domestic markets and economic players against unfair competitiveness. There is an essential demand of Customs Capacity Building to successfully implement such a modern agenda on trade facilitation and trade security.

During the last year conference participants recognized the importance of enhancing Customs modernization by improving co-ordination of Capacity Building efforts, exploring synergies and opportunities for collaboration and identifying the key success factors for Customs modernization.

Based on the findings of the last year conference the goal of this year’s Conference is to generate closer donor liaison and collaboration in sustainable Customs reform.

Participants will discuss methods of achieving sustainability in aid programmes drawing from the experience of donor representatives and presentation by the stakeholders of Customs reform outlining their needs and priorities.

The Conference is organized by the World Customs Organization and HMRevenue & Customs.

There will be participation from donor institutions, multilateral and regional development banks, development agencies, representatives of economic blocs, business and trade representatives and WCO Members representing the Customs community.
The WCO will be represented by the Secretary General-elect, the Director of the Capacity Building Directorate and additional staff.

Simultaneous interpretation in English, French and Spanish will be arranged.

The Conference will be finalized by a reception at the Conference venue which is kindly sponsored by HM Revenue & Customs.

The Conference will be followed on 3 October 2008 by a workshop on the development of Customs management skills and the critical role they play in sustainable Capacity Building. The workshop will explore the key roles for donors, development agencies, academia and business in promoting and supporting this important area.

The workshop will be held at the premises of HM Revenue & Customs,

100 Parliament Street, Westminster, London. There is limited number of places for this workshop and therefore early indication of your participation is essential.

Consecutive interpretation English/French will be available.