On 25 June 2025, the annual Dialogue between the WCO Policy Commission (PC) and the Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) was held at WCO Headquarters in Brussels. The Dialogue provided a timely opportunity to strengthen public-private collaboration on both longstanding and emerging Customs and trade issues, and was preceded by a dedicated PSCG meeting on 23 and 24 June. The agenda focused on the PSCG’s collaboration and proposals aimed at formalizing and strengthening its cooperation with the WCO.
WCO Council Chairperson, Edward Kieswetter, opened the session by welcoming participants and reaffirming the shared commitment to advance efficient, secure, and sustainable trade. He recognized the enduring partnership between the WCO and the PSCG as a valuable driver of progress in addressing today’s complex supply chain challenges. He also delivered an oral update on the recent Policy Commission discussions, with particular attention to the evolving relationship with the PSCG.
During his update, the Chairperson informed participants that the Policy Commission had endorsed the draft PSCG Code of Ethics and Conduct, provided strategic guidance on enhancing PSCG collaboration in line with Member priorities, and recommended launching a review of the PSCG’s Terms of Reference to ensure they reflect current realities and expectations.
This year’s Dialogue also marked the 20th anniversary of the PSCG’s establishment—a milestone that served as a springboard for reflection and forward-looking discussion. Recognizing the need to modernize its engagement model, the PSCG presented a series of proposals aimed at formalizing and strengthening its cooperation with the WCO. These proposals called for deeper alignment through structured mechanisms, co-developed agendas, and regular performance reviews to ensure meaningful and impactful contributions.
The Dialogue further explored consultation practices at the national and regional levels, highlighting the growing role of the WCO Regional Private Sector Groups (RPSGs). These regional platforms were recognized for their ability to ensure that diverse private sector perspectives are reflected in global discussions and that regional priorities are effectively communicated and addressed.
The WCO Deputy Secretary General, Ricardo Treviño, presented the composition of the PSCG for the 2025–2026 term. He underscored the importance of the group’s diverse expertise and wide representation, which are critical in supporting WCO Members as they navigate an increasingly dynamic trade environment.
In closing, WCO Secretary General Ian Saunders expressed appreciation for the active engagement of all participants and reaffirmed the Organization’s commitment to fostering stronger, results-driven collaboration with the private sector. He emphasized that effective partnerships are essential to delivering on the WCO’s mission of promoting efficiency, security, and prosperity across borders.
The 2025 PC–PSCG Dialogue reaffirmed the importance of sustained public-private cooperation in shaping the future of international trade. Looking ahead, the WCO and PSCG remain committed to deepening their partnership to deliver more agile, inclusive, and impactful solutions for the global Customs community.