Shipping lanes are the superhighways of international commerce, and as the global economy becomes increasingly interconnected, trade opportunities have spread worldwide. About 90% of the world’s cargo is transported in maritime containers, but only less than 2% is physically inspected by customs authorities. This provides ample opportunities for organized crime and terrorist groups to exploit significant trade volumes and undertake illicit activities, such as avoiding customs duties, circumventing quotas, or smuggling protected products such as timber and wildlife, as well as nuclear materials, weapons and illicit drugs.
Furthermore, the rapid advancement of technology has empowered individuals to exploit various channels using standard postal and commercial shipping services. Adding to these threats, the challenge is exacerbated by the proliferation of sophisticated concealment measures, corruption, limited resources, complex and diverse port processes and systems, and a lack of trust and coordination between state agencies and private sector entities. This situation poses grave dangers to international security and the global trade supply chain, which is vital for sustainable development.
In response to these challenges, PCCP aims to prevent the cross-border movement of illicit goods by enhancing risk assessment and inspection capacity in dedicated PCCP-supported inter-agency units, moving away from random checks and promoting data-based seizures and interceptions for greater efficiency. Program activities are implemented in multiple phases, from technical needs assessments to unit establishment, as well as provision of equipment and training for law enforcement officers. These activities focus on strengthening inter-agency and private sector cooperation and international communication. A key component of the PCCP methodology is the use of technology to enhance coordination and efficiency. Cooperation between units is also achieved via information sharing through online platforms such as the Customs Enforcement Network communication platform (CENcomm). These multifunctional and secure communication system, developed by the WCO Secretariat, facilitates the encrypted exchange of sensitive information about suspected high-risk cargo and passengers between units and other authorized users in participating countries.
PCCP adopts a nuanced, holistic, and multi-sectoral approach. It focuses on continuous monitoring and oversight, offers context-specific and specialized training programs, and strengthens cooperation and collaboration between state agencies and the private sector. Beyond supporting 25 established Aircargo Control Units (ACCUs) at airports, PCCP also supports 125 Port Control Units (PCUs) at sea and land borders globally.
