UBG greets govt on induction into WCO policy commission

KARACHI: President of the United Business Group (UBG), M Zubair Tufail, has termed Pakistan’s success in securing a seat on the Policy Commission of the World Customs Organization (WCO) for the 2026–28 term as a historic diplomatic, trade, and institutional milestone.

He extended heartfelt congratulations to the Government of Pakistan, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the Pakistan Customs on this achievement.

He said that for the first time in nearly seven decades of membership, Pakistan has secured representation on the WCO’s highest policy-making forum, which reflects the country’s growing global stature, effective Customs diplomacy, and institutional capabilities. He added that this success is not only a matter of pride for Pakistan Customs but also for the entire business community and the national economy.

He stated that despite tough competition during the meeting of Asia-Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Administrations held in Hong Kong, Pakistan succeeded among six candidate countries competing for five seats.

This demonstrates that the international community recognizes and appreciates Pakistan’s trade reforms, digitalization efforts, and transparency in the Customs system.

The UBG president said that the WCO Policy Commission is the most important platform for policy-making related to global trade, Customs modernization, trade facilitation, digital transformation, and international governance. Pakistan’s presence on this forum will not only help safeguard national interests more effectively but will also strengthen and amplify Pakistan’s voice in global trade policy-making.

Zubair Tufail further said that over the past two years, Pakistan’s active Customs diplomacy, effective regional engagement, institutional reforms, and the establishment of Pakistan Customs permanent mission in Brussels have significantly strengthened the country’s credibility on international forums.

He expressed hope that following the formal approval of this nomination during the WCO Council meeting in June 2026, Pakistan will play a more active and leading role in global trade and customs policy-making.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026