Pakistan and Uzbekistan have agreed to expand customs digitalisation through artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced cargo tracking systems. The initiative aims to strengthen border security, reduce customs clearance times and promote faster regional trade.
The agreement was reached during a high-level bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of an international conference in Tashkent. The conference was organised under the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime-World Customs Organization Passenger and Cargo Control Programme.
Syed Shakeel Shah, Member Customs Operations at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), led the Pakistani delegation. Meanwhile, officials from both countries reviewed existing cooperation and discussed future digital customs initiatives.
AI To Strengthen Customs And Border Security
Pakistan and Uzbekistan agreed to expand the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in customs operations. Furthermore, both countries will explore AI-powered risk management and data analytics to improve customs clearance and enforcement.
The two sides also agreed to extend their existing digital connectivity to include transit trade information. Consequently, customs authorities expect faster information exchange, stronger border controls and smoother regional trade.
Officials also discussed establishing National Targeting Centres and strengthening intelligence-led enforcement. Therefore, the measures are expected to improve trade security while helping combat illicit cross-border activities.
Pakistan Single Window Connectivity To Expand
During the meeting, the Pakistani delegation highlighted that Uzbekistan is the first country connected to Pakistan through the Pakistan Single Window for advance customs information exchange covering both imports and exports.
Officials described the initiative as a major milestone in digital customs cooperation between the two countries. Moreover, both sides agreed to expand the system to include transit trade information.
The discussions also focused on trade facilitation through mutual recognition of Authorised Economic Operator programmes and regulatory documents. Additionally, Pakistan and Uzbekistan agreed to strengthen public-private partnerships to support legitimate trade while enhancing enforcement against illegal cross-border activities.
The new initiatives are expected to improve customs efficiency, facilitate regional commerce and strengthen long-term economic cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
