International Customs Day (ICD) is observed annually on January 26 across the globe to highlight the vital role of customs officials and customs agencies in maintaining security, trade compliance, and major anti-smuggling achievements. This day also commemorates the inaugural session of the Customs Cooperation Council (CCC) (now World Customs Organization, WCO) held in Brussels, Belgium in 1953.
- 26 January 2025 marks the 72nd anniversary of WCO, an intergovernmental body dedicated to enhancing customs administrations worldwide.
Theme:
i.The theme for ICD 2025 is “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.”
ii.This theme highlights the ongoing dedication of customs authorities in improving the efficiency of global trade, ensuring security, and fostering economic growth.
Background:
i.The CCC was established in 1952 as an intergovernmental body to improve the efficiency of customs administrations around the globe.
ii.On January 26, 1953, the inaugural session of the CCC was held in Brussels, Belgium marking the beginning of the organization worldwide.
iii.On December 26, 1983, the Customs Cooperation Council (CCC), celebrated the 1st International Customs Day (ICD) to commemorate the 30th anniversary of its founding.
- The event took place in Brussels with 17 member countries participating.
iv.In 1994, the CCC became a global organization and was renamed the WCO, expanding its membership to 183 countries, which now manage 98% of global trade.
v.WCO, currently works with 186 member states to improve customs operations and adapt to the changing landscape of international trade.
Custom Administration in India:
i.The Indian Customs system is governed by the Customs Act of 1962, which defines the regulations for import and export duties and the customs valuation process.
ii.The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), formerly known as the Central Board of Excise & Customs, is the primary authority overseeing customs, excise, and Goods and Services Tax (GST) matters in India.
iii.CBIC operates under the Department of Revenue (DoR), Ministry of Finance (MoF).
Roles of Customs Agencies in India:
i.Collecting Revenue: Responsible for collecting import and excise duties, along with other taxes and levies imposed on imported goods.
ii.Enforcing Compliance: To ensure compliance with various regulations, including technical quality standards, veterinary regulations, and plant health rules for imports.
iii.Protecting Consumers: Work to detect and stop the import of counterfeit goods, ensuring consumer safety.
iv.Customs Duties and Taxes: All imported goods in India are subject to customs duty, along with other taxes like Value Added Tax (VAT), excise duty, and service tax.
v.Customs House Agent (CHA) or Customs Broker, assists exporters and importers in ensuring accurate documentation and a smooth customs clearance process.
About World Customs Organization (WCO):
Secretary-General– Ian Clifton Saunders (the United States of America, USA)
Headquarters– Brussels, Belgium
Established- 1952
