GUAM, U.S.A. – The Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) will hold its 27th Annual Conference in Guam from May 19-23, bringing together customs leaders from across the Pacific region to discuss critical issues affecting regional trade, security, and cooperation.

Under the theme “Driving Efficiency, Security and Sustainability: Strengthening Customs in the Pacific,” the five-day conference will focus on strategic priorities including digital transformation, gender equality, artificial intelligence applications, environmental protection, and collaborative efforts to combat transnational crime.

“This year’s conference comes at a pivotal time for customs administrations in our region, as we navigate the complexities of an increasingly digital trade environment while addressing persistent challenges,” said Ms. Nancy T. Oraka, Head of Secretariat for the OCO. “The discussions and decisions made in Guam will shape our collective approach to customs modernisation and regional cooperation for years to come.”

The conference will welcome representatives from all 23 OCO member countries and territories, along with international partners including the World Customs Organization, United Nations agencies, and regional organisations. The event will begin with a two-day Customs Chiefs Leadership Forum, followed by the formal OCO Heads Conference and conclude with collaborative sessions involving partners and stakeholders.

“We are honored to welcome our customs colleagues from across the Pacific to Guam. This conference provides an excellent opportunity to showcase our island’s hospitality while advancing the critical work of customs agencies throughout Oceania,” said Mr. Ike Q. Peredo, Chair of the OCO Steering Committee and Director of the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency.

Key agenda items of the meeting include:

• Strategic communication in the Pacific context

• Gender equality and social inclusion initiatives

• Customs digitalisation and data-driven operations

• Artificial intelligence applications for border management

• Addressing undervaluation challenges in regional trade

• Environmental protection and green customs practices

• Collaborative efforts to combat illicit trade and transnational crime

The OCO, established in 1986, serves as the primary regional body for customs administrations in the Pacific, facilitating cooperation, capacity building, and harmonisation of customs procedures across its membership.