Uganda to host global tax conference

In recognition of Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) for implementing significant customs modernization reforms in Africa, Uganda has been selected to host the 4th WCO Global Authorised Economic Operator Conference in May 2018.
 
This was a decision agreed during the recently concluded 3rd Global Authorized Economic Operator Programme (AEO) conference that took place in the Mexican resort city of Cancun.
 
According to Dicksons Kateshumbwa, the Commissioner Customs, the conference provides an opportunity to hear and learn about the successes and challenges of Customs administrations.
 
He also noted the need to know about other border agencies and private sector, in particular small to medium size enterprises, in their efforts to implement an AEO programme.
 
The AEO programme focuses on enhancing cooperation and partnership between Customs, the private sector and the other key stakeholders leading to global public/private dialogue.

The previous conferences took place in 2011 and 2013 in Seoul, Korea and Madrid, Spain respectively. There are currently 69 countries implementing AEO programs worldwide and Uganda is among.

 
The AEO program is widely acknowledged as a key driver for a solid Customs-business partnership, transparent and predictable trading environment and in a wider context, leading to economic prosperity.
 
Speaking at the at conference among the panelists that included The WCO Secretary General - Kunio Mikuriya, Richard DiNucci - Executive Director, US Customs and Border Protection, Jhon Fonseca- Vice Minister of Foreign Trade, Costa Rica, Uganda's Commissioner Customs Dicksons Kateshumbwa highlighted the need to strengthen Customs to Customs cooperation globally and regional integration as key to the success of AEO programs because this helps in risk management by injecting predictability into unpredictable situations.

The Conference was attended by an outstanding array of international leaders from Government and Multilateral Policymakers, Customs, Senior International Logistics executives, Trade Compliance and Supply-Chain Managers, Corporate and Trade Organization Executives, Supply-Chain IT Providers, Legal Advisors, Academics and Economists.

The theme for the 3rd Global AEO Conference - The Evolution of Security in Global Trade: Great partners, Innovative technology and Smart practices - provided an excellent opportunity for discussing dynamic developments of the AEO in the light of global security concerns.
 
The Conference will also highlighted the increasing role of digital technology that transforms the way Customs and business operate, providing enhanced solutions for international trade supply chain and economic growth.

The Commissioner Customs Dicksons Kateshumbwa showcased Uganda as among the top 10 tourist destination and a beckon of customs modernisation and reform on the continent. Uganda will host the next conference in 2018 with expected 1500 delegates.