On 20 November 2024, the Asia/Pacif Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB A/P) celebrated its 20th Anniversary with an event in held Bangkok, Thailand. This event marked two decades of dedication to enhancing the capacities of WCO Member Customs administrations in the Asia/Pacific Region. The event, co-organized with the Thai Customs Department, brought together distinguished delegates from Customs administrations across the region.

The WCO Secretary General, Mr. Ian Saunders, shared a congratulatory video message with the ROCB A/P. In his message, Mr. Saunders acknowledged the contribution of the ROCB A/P to the modernization and development of Customs administrations in the region by supporting the WCO's capacity-building activities and promoting the dissemination and implementation of WCO tools. He also expressed his gratitude to Thai Customs,  the host administration, as well as to China, Hong Kong (China) Japan, and Korea which have dispatched attachés to help resource the work of the ROCB A/P.

Following his address, Mr. Jun Tajima, the Head of ROCB A/P, delivered welcome remarks, echoing the message of appreciation  to Thai Customs as the host of the ROCB A/P. He emphasized that the accomplishments of the ROCB A/P had been the result of the collective work of all those supporting the Office. He also delivered an insightful presentation highlighting the most significant achievements and contributions over the past two decades.

The Regional Vice-Chair reflected on the ROCB A/P’s accomplishments in enhancing regional cooperation and promoting knowledge sharing among Customs administrations in the Region. He celebrated its successes by commending the Office’s role in bringing the region closer together, and reaffirming host Administration’s commitment to cooperation with the ROCB A/P.