Brigadier General Abdelhafid Bekhous, Director-General of Algerian Customs, is attending the 173rd Global Forum on Customs Matters related to transport, including border crossing facilitation (WP.30), which began on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. This forum brings together international customs experts to discuss pressing issues in customs regulations and procedures.
The 173rd Global Forum will address key issues related to the implementation of international agreements supervised by the forum, primarily the TIR Convention and the 1982 Convention on Harmonization of Controls of Goods at Frontiers. Additionally, discussions will focus on digitalization, customs data exchange, and facilitation of goods movement across borders, reflecting the global shift towards streamlined customs processes.
Bekhous's participation underscores Algeria's commitment to enhancing its presence in specialized international forums and actively contributing to the development of mechanisms for facilitating international trade and simplifying customs procedures. This aligns with Algeria's goals of supporting global efforts to modernize customs systems and ensure the security of supply chains.
The participation also highlights Algeria's dedication to backing United Nations efforts aimed at updating customs systems and reinforcing supply chain security, in line with the country's policies on facilitating foreign trade and protecting the national economy. Algeria's involvement in such international forums is crucial for staying abreast of global customs standards and best practices.
The discussions at the forum are expected to pave the way for enhanced cooperation among countries on customs matters, fostering a more efficient and secure international trade environment. The Algerian Customs delegation's active engagement in these discussions will help in sharing experiences and expertise, contributing to the development of more effective customs regulations.
The event serves as a platform for countries to exchange views on the challenges and opportunities in customs administration, particularly in the context of digital transformation and the need for seamless border crossings. By participating in such forums, Algeria aims to play a constructive role in shaping international customs policies and practices.
The Algerian delegation's attendance at the 173rd Global Forum on Customs Matters demonstrates the country's proactive approach to engaging with the international community on customs issues, reinforcing its commitment to facilitating trade and ensuring customs compliance. This participation is a testament to Algeria's ongoing efforts to integrate into the global economy while safeguarding its national interests.
Key points
- Algerian Customs Director-General participates in the 173rd Global Forum on Customs Matters in Geneva.
- The forum focuses on transport and border crossing facilitation, digitalization, and customs data exchange.
- Algeria aims to contribute to the development of mechanisms for facilitating international trade and simplifying customs procedures.
