The Customs Capacity Building Diagnostic Framework has been prepared by the WCO to:

• provide a standardized diagnostic tool and project design and implementation guide to improve the quality of capacity building initiatives in the Customs administrations of developing countries;

• promote the effective implementation of WCO, WTO and other trade and Customs-related Conventions, instruments, best practice approaches and useful reference materials that can assist in the development of capacity building solutions that are appropriate to the individual needs and operating environments of Customs administrations; and

• equip senior Customs officials with the detailed information necessary to more fully engage and lead discussions/negotiations with donor agencies and other government officials.

Part A outlines the critically important role that an efficient and effective Customs administration can play in the economic and social development of countries and makes a sound case for increased investment in the reform and modernization of Customs administrations. It also describes what is meant by the term .capacity building. and summarizes the findings of recent research into the successes and failures of previous capacity building efforts.

Part B describes the core elements of modern Customs administration and outlines the internationally agreed principles that should underpin all reform and modernization initiatives. It also describes a number of pre-requisite conditions that need to be met before comprehensive capacity building activities should be contemplated.

Part C introduces the Diagnostic tool and explains how it can be used to identify key developmental needs. Practical guidelines are provided to assist officials to identify any gaps between existing systems, procedures and practices and those outlined in the Part B of the Framework.

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