CGC Adeniyi Explores Trade Enhancement At WCO AEO Conference In China

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, participated in a high-level panel at the 6th World Customs Organization (WCO) Global Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) Conference on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. The conference, hosted in Shenzhen, China, centered on the theme of enhancing global trade efficiency and security.

During the panel discussion, CGC Adeniyi shared insights into Nigeria’s newly launched pilot AEO program, which he stated aligns with the broader goals of the WCO to promote border security and drive sustainable economic growth worldwide. The program aims to streamline trading processes and reduce transaction costs, contributing positively to Nigeria’s ranking in the ease of doing business.

The session featured distinguished panelists including Sun Yuning, Vice Minister of the General Administration of China Customs; Helena Marla, Director-General of the Tax and Customs Authority of Portugal; Edward Kieswetter, WCO Council Chairperson; and Selina Clerk, Deputy Commissioner Operations of the Jamaica Customs Agency.

In his remarks, CGC Adeniyi expressed the initial phases of implementing the AEO in Nigeria and his commitment to enhancing the capacity of customs officers. “We have been inspired by the policy and vision of the new Nigerian government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to boost economic competitiveness and diversification,” Adeniyi stated.

Further addressing the moderator, Ian Sanders, Secretary-General of the WCO, Adeniyi discussed the ongoing challenges and the need for effective stakeholder engagement to optimize the benefits of the AEO program.

The conference opened with remarks from Wanga Lingjun, Vice Minister of General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China, who welcomed the delegates. In his keynote, Ian Sanders highlighted the significance of the AEO program in fostering a transparent, secure, and resilient trade ecosystem and emphasized the critical role of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the global economy.

The conference also included a panel on ‘Advancing Women’s Empowerment through AEO Programmes’, where Nnenna Awa, AEO lead for the Nigeria Customs Service, discussed strategies to overcome barriers in global trade for women.

The event continues through May 10, with further discussions expected on enhancing international trade practices and expanding AEO benefits globally.