The 3rd International IT Conference "Dialogue on the Customs Ecosystem" has commenced in the Issyk-Kul region, bringing together representatives of customs administrations, international organizations, and expert communities to discuss the modernization of customs systems and the digital transformation of border management.
The conference is organized by the State Customs Service under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic in co-operation with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and the Regional Programme "Trade Facilitation in Central Asia / Development of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor", implemented by GIZ on behalf of the Government of Germany and co-financed by the European Union.
The event focuses on strengthening the concept of a modern customs ecosystem that integrates government agencies, the private sector, international partners, and technology providers. This approach aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness of customs services in an increasingly interconnected global trade environment.
In his video message to participants, the Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, Ambassador Dr. Volker Frobart, underlined the importance of advancing modern customs ecosystems as a key element of customs modernization and digital transformation. He emphasized that digitalization and strengthened partnerships enable more efficient, predictable, and transparent cross-border movement of goods and people, while maintaining necessary standards of control, safety, and security.
He further noted that such developments ultimately benefit businesses through reduced costs and delays, while providing citizens with improved access to goods, more efficient travel, and expanded economic opportunities driven by greater regional connectivity.
The conference brings together representatives of customs administrations from nine countries: Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan. Participants are exchanging experiences and discussing innovative approaches to digital transformation, including the application of artificial intelligence, development of digital transit solutions, integration of information systems, and modern approaches to customs process management.
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek continues to support the efforts of the State Customs Service of the Kyrgyz Republic in advancing trade facilitation, improving border management, and promoting digital solutions that contribute to more efficient, transparent, and service-oriented customs procedures.
The conference serves as an important platform for dialogue among practitioners, experts, and decision-makers, offering opportunities to share best practices and explore innovative solutions for the continued modernization of customs administrations and the strengthening of regional co-operation.
