On 10–11 February, funded by the European Union Border Management Programme in Central Asia  (BOMCA 10) provided the technical assistance to the development of a new Master’s programme at the Customs Institute. This initiative is a crucial step towards Uzbekistan’s objective of aligning with the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) professional and accreditation standards.

The event brought together key stakeholders from the Customs Institute, the EU Delegation to Uzbekistan and BOMCA 10 experts from Riga Technical University. Their collaboration led to valuable recommendations for aligning the programme with EU customs and taxation standards, further strengthening trade facilitation between the EU and Uzbekistan.

The Master's programme marks a significant step in modernising Uzbekistan’s education system in customs management. By integrating globally recognised frameworks, such as the WCO Professional Standards and the EU TAXUD Customs Competencies Framework, the programme ensures that students receive up-to-date training on the latest customs regulations and trade compliance practices.

This alignment will equip the next generation of customs professionals with the expertise to address the evolving challenges of global trade, border security and trade facilitation. The programme’s focus on international standards is crucial for preparing students to navigate the complexities of modern customs management and drive efficiency in global trade.

WCO accreditation will further enhance the Customs Institute's global reputation, opening doors for partnerships with customs universities and organisations worldwide. Graduates will benefit from improved career prospects and increased competitiveness in the global job market, as WCO accreditation is recognised by 183 member countries. This accreditation positions graduates to operate at the highest level in international trade, contributing to Uzbekistan’s economic growth and global competitiveness.

With the expertise of the EU and WCO, the programme has successfully addressed knowledge gaps and contributed to the development of a highly skilled customs workforce in Uzbekistan. BOMCA 10, through its continued support of the upgraded curriculum, has helped Uzbekistan move closer to achieving its goal of WCO accession, advancing the country’s ambitions while promoting broader economic development and preparing future customs professionals to meet international standards.

About BOMCA

The Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA), funded by the European Union (EU), aims to enhance security, stability and sustainable growth in the region, while supporting cross-border cooperation and improving living conditions for people in the border areas of Central Asia. Since its implementation in 2003, BOMCA has played a leading role in strengthening cooperation between border control authorities through the application of the concept of integrated border management, as well as in bringing border control in line with international and EU standards.

BOMCA’s tenth phase, launched in April 2021, covers four areas: institutional development of border management agencies, improvement of detection capacities, trade facilitation, and improvement of cross-border cooperation. With a budget of EUR 21.65 million and an implementation period of 4.5 years, BOMCA 10 is the largest regional initiative in the field. It is implemented by a consortium of border management institutions of selected EU member states and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development led by the State Border Guard for the Republic of Latvia. 

For additional information on BOMCA 10 please contact: [email protected]