The WCO assists Uruguay with an integrity pilot project
Montevideo, 19-23 March 2012
The WCO Secretariat and Uruguay Customs have been working together on an integrity pilot project since October 2010, when a Uruguayan Delegate attended the 9th Session of the Integrity Sub-Committee.
Uruguay has decided to focus its project on strengthening the relationship between Customs and the private sector through the signing of 8 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with different associations representing the majority of Customs stakeholders. Each MOU is specific and provides for the setting up of a Joint Commission with a view to developing an Action Plan. Both Customs and the private sector have publicly committed to implement the provisions contained in the MOUs, which should contribute to increased transparency, professionalism and integrity on both sides.
During the mission, the WCO Secretariat met with stakeholders to present the WCO Integrity Strategy as well as best practices that reiterate the need for a sound partnership between Customs and the private sector in order to fight successfully against corruption.
Two Customs integrity awareness events were held in the cities of Montevideo and Colonia. They were aimed at presenting the WCO Integrity Programme, raising awareness about integrity issues and reinforcing the integrity pilot project and what was expected from all parties. This integrity pilot project is in keeping with the reforms initiated by the Uruguay Customs Administration under the strong leadership of its Director General.