Kieswetter calls on global collaboration towards policy development

SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter has called on global customs officials to work together to develop customs policies that will help make the world more inclusive and equal.

He was speaking at the 91st Policy Commission of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in Cape Town.

The WCO, originally established in 1952 as the Customs Co-operation Council, includes 186 Customs administrations that collectively process approximately 98% of world trade.

Kieswetter says customs policies can play a major role in improving the quality of life of ordinary people.

“It is my wish that we the leaders of customs can use this moment as a moment to restore hope, not only here, but across the world. An opportunity through the words we speak, we re-awaken a sense of renewed optimism through the choices we make, reflect an unyielding resolve and a commitment towards a more inclusive and a more equal world – that the work we lead through our officials every day, society may feel just a little bit more protected from the oppressive forces that seek to undermine social cohesion.”