2016 International Customs Day: Bhutan Department of Revenue and Customs
26 January 2016
Bhutan's Department of Revenue and Customs (DRC) observed the International Customs Day at the Regional Revenue and Customs Office, Samtse. Customs officials with outstanding contribution to the organization, showed exemplary dedication, and maintained a good track record were awarded with World Customs Organization (WCO) Merit Certificates. The event was attended by the Finance Minister of Bhutan and other senior officials from the Ministry of Finance, officials from the Dzongkha, Samtse, and representatives from the private sector. Relevant stakeholders, border enforcement agencies and cross-border Customs officials from neighbouring towns of India also joined the celebration.
International Customs Day is observed by Customs Administrations around the world on 26 January, in honor of the establishment of the WCO. This year's theme, “Digital Customs: Progressive Engagement”, aims to actively showcase and promote the use of Information and Communication Technologies in Customs administrations to improve collection and safeguarding of Customs duties, enhance control of the flow of goods, people, conveyances, and money, and to boost security of cross-border trade worldwide.
Bhutan became a WCO member in February 2002, and officially joined the global Customs community in formally celebrating International Customs Day in 2014.