Phnom Penh, July 2, 2024 – The General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE) of Cambodia and the World Customs Organization (WCO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) designating Cambodia's National Customs School (NCS) as the WCO Regional Training Center for the Asia-Pacific region for 2024 and 2025.

The MoU was signed by Kun Nhem, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister and GDCE Director General, and WCO Chairperson Edward Kieswetter during the 143rd/144th Sessions of the WCO Council held in Brussels, Belgium, from June 27 to 29, according to a GDCE statement issued on July 1.

This designation marks a significant milestone for Cambodia's customs administration, affirming its commitment to excellence in training and capacity building within the Asia-Pacific region.

The General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia became the 155th member of the World Customs Organization on April 3, 2001.

The Cambodian Customs Administration delegation also held bilateral meetings with delegations from the Indian Customs Administration, the Philippine Customs Administration, and the Belarusian Customs Administration. The meetings aimed to expedite the preparation of a framework document on cooperation and examine the feasibility of drafting an MoU on mutual assistance in customs affairs.