From the 11th to 12th January 2021, the World Customs Organization (WCO) supported by CCF Korea, held a virtual workshop on Data Analytics (DA) for manager levels in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The region’s high interest in DA will help not only level up nationwide capabilities of Members but also maintain a regional competitive edge in the world.

The WCO delivered a comprehensive and holistic overview of Big Data Analytics and the practical guiding principle of many other initiatives to develop the capacity of Members in using the Capacity Building Framework on Data Analytics. The workshop also provided an opportunity for Customs managers to strengthen the network of data analytics practitioners by sharing the experiences and good practices of Members, including Jordan, Tunisia, Belgium, and Korea.

The participants were also updated on the latest developments regarding the WCO capacity building initiatives: 1) the future plan for technical assistance, 2) online and offline training courses to learn data science including programming skills 3) the establishment of the BACUDA virtual working group - a driving force to make research activities more Member-friendly and conduct a collaborative pilot for testing analytic models.

The managers from MENA region appreciated the activity and shared ideas on the next steps to further cooperate with the BACUDA project to enhance capacity in DA nationally and regionally.

For more information please contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org