WCO Policy Commission Seat Marks Major Achievement for Pakistan
WCO Policy representation secured by Pakistan for the 2026–28 term has been described as a historic diplomatic and institutional achievement by Zubair Tufail, President of the United Business Group.
In a statement issued in Karachi, Zubair Tufail congratulated the Pakistan government, the Federal Board of Revenue, and Pakistan Customs on securing a seat on the Policy Commission of the World Customs Organization.
He termed the achievement a major milestone in Pakistan’s customs diplomacy, trade reforms, and institutional progress.
First Representation in Nearly Seven Decades
Zubair Tufail stated that Pakistan has secured representation on the WCO’s highest policy-making forum for the first time in nearly seven decades of membership.
According to him, the success reflects Pakistan’s growing international stature, effective customs diplomacy, and improving institutional capabilities.
He added that the achievement is not only a matter of pride for Pakistan Customs but also for the country’s business community and national economy.
The UBG President noted that Pakistan’s selection demonstrates increasing global confidence in the country’s trade and customs administration.
Success Achieved Despite Strong Competition
The UBG President said the achievement came during the meeting of Asia-Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Administrations held in Hong Kong.
According to him, Pakistan successfully secured one of the five available seats despite strong competition from six candidate countries.
He said the outcome reflects international recognition of Pakistan’s reforms in customs operations, digitalization, and transparency measures.
Zubair Tufail added that recent improvements in trade facilitation and customs modernization have strengthened Pakistan’s image on global economic platforms.
Importance of the WCO Policy Commission
Explaining the significance of the forum, Zubair Tufail stated that the WCO Policy Commission serves as one of the most important international platforms for decisions related to global trade and customs governance.
He said the commission focuses on:
- Customs modernization
- Trade facilitation
- Digital transformation
- International customs governance
- Global trade policy coordination
According to him, Pakistan’s presence on this forum will help the country protect its national interests more effectively while strengthening its voice in international trade discussions.
Customs Diplomacy and Institutional Reforms Praised
Zubair Tufail further stated that Pakistan’s active customs diplomacy over the past two years has played a major role in achieving this success.
He highlighted effective regional engagement, institutional reforms, and the establishment of Pakistan Customs’ permanent mission in Brussels as important developments that improved Pakistan’s credibility internationally.
The UBG President said these measures have helped Pakistan build stronger relationships with international customs authorities and trade institutions.
Business Community Welcomes Achievement
The business community has welcomed Pakistan’s success in securing representation on the WCO Policy Commission.
According to Zubair Tufail, stronger participation in global customs policy-making can help improve Pakistan’s trade environment, support exporters, and encourage international economic cooperation.
He expressed hope that Pakistan’s role on the commission would create new opportunities for trade facilitation and institutional development.
Formal Approval Expected in June 2026
Zubair Tufail said the nomination is expected to receive formal approval during the WCO Council meeting scheduled for June 2026.
He expressed confidence that Pakistan will continue to play a more active and constructive role in global customs and trade policy-making in the future.
According to him, the achievement reflects the country’s commitment to modernization, transparency, and international cooperation.
Conclusion
Zubair Tufail described Pakistan’s success in securing a seat on the WCO Policy Commission as a historic milestone for the country’s customs diplomacy and trade reforms. He said the achievement strengthens Pakistan’s international standing and provides an opportunity for the country to contribute more actively to global trade and customs policy discussions.
