International Relations
The Customs Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain is committed to enhancing international relations with customs administrations worldwide. As an active member of various international organizations, including the World Customs Organization (WCO), we strive to foster collaboration and share best practices in customs operations.
1. World Customs Organization
The Kingdom of Bahrain became a member of the WCO on February 28, 2001, following the enactment of Decree Law No. 13 of 2001. Since then, Bahrain has actively contributed to the WCO's initiatives by participating in high-level meetings and technical committees.
From 2014 to 2020, the Customs Affairs of Bahrain held the position of Vice President of the WCO and presided over the North Africa and Near East region (MENA region).
In December 2020, His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa, President of Customs, was elected as the President of the WCO Council by acclamation during the 137th extraordinary session. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing the objectives of the WCO.
For more information, please visit the: http://www.wcoomd.org
2. Gulf Relations
In alignment with Law No. (1) of 2006, which established the Customs Union of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Bahrain has been an active participant in the Gulf Customs Union since its inception in January 2003. The Customs Affairs of Bahrain engages in various committees and working groups under the Economic Affairs Sector of the GCC General Secretariat, including:
- Meetings at the level of agents: Board of Directors of the Customs Union Authority.
- Technical meetings and working groups: Harmonized System Committee, Customs Procedures and Computer Committee, and others.
For further details, please refer to the: http://www.gcc-sg.org
3. Arab Relations
Since joining the League of Arab States in 1971, the Customs Affairs of Bahrain has actively participated in the Economic Affairs Sector's committees and working groups. Key engagements include:
- Higher Committees: Meeting of the Directors-General of Customs of the Arab States.
- Technical Committees: Arab Customs Union Committee, Customs Procedures and Information Committee, and others.
For more information, please visit the: http://www.lasportal.org