ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has been nominated to the World Customs Organisation Policy Commission for 2026-28, the first time in nearly 70 years, the Federal Board of Revenue said on Thursday.

The election took place at the Asia-Pacific regional meeting in Hong Kong from May 18-20. The nomination will be placed before the WCO Council Session in June for approval by acclamation.

The Policy Commission is the WCO’s principal strategic policy forum, shaping international customs policy on modernisation, trade facilitation, digital transformation, enforcement cooperation and governance reform.

Pakistan secured one of five Asia-Pacific seats after a contest involving six candidates. The FBR said the nomination reflected Pakistan’s long absence from WCO governance, alongside Pakistan Customs’ modernisation gains through the Pakistan Single Window, digital customs reforms and regional connectivity initiatives.

Since establishing a permanent mission to the WCO in Brussels in September 2023, Pakistan has strengthened its diplomatic presence and engagement across the Asia-Pacific region.

Published in Dawn, May 21st, 2026