Cover News:

This year's government work report mentioned the Smart Customs initiative for the first time. The GACC also stated that the initiative started comprehensive implementation this year. Could you please elaborate on the current progress of this initiative and what will be the priorities for the next step? Thank you.

Zhao Zenglian:

I'll invite Mr. Lin Shaobin to answer the questions.

Lin Shaobin:

Thank you for your questions. The Smart Customs initiative is key to promoting customs reform. Driven by practical needs, technical support and social expectations, the development of Smart Customs has been fully unfolded and has already realized certain results. Here, I would like to highlight three keywords in this respect: security, convenience and efficiency.

First, security. We aim to construct an intelligent "Great Wall" which is supported by big data and intelligent equipment, safeguarding customs security by precisely preventing and defusing risks. For example, during machine inspection operations, we utilize intelligent technology to review images to accurately identify discrepancies between import and export declarations and shipments, smuggled goods and other risks. This also effectively detects the invasion of exotic pets and other foreign species. Furthermore, we precisely combat the smuggling of weapons, ammunition, drugs, and endangered species and their products.

Second, convenience. We continuously optimize customs procedures and streamline supervision to best facilitate the cross-border mobility of passengers and goods. For example, we are advancing smart passenger inspection by deploying innovative equipment, which includes integrated smart channels, advance machine inspection and collaborative robots, enabling passengers to experience seamless customs clearance. Recently, as China has relaxed visa-free policies, more international friends came to our country for travel, and have praised the new intelligent customs clearance experience at ports.

Third, efficiency. We extensively applied new technologies and intelligent equipment to effectively enhance customs operational efficiency in risk identification, supervision and inspection as well as enterprise services. For example, we implemented intelligent, non-intrusive, and streamlined supervision, enabling imported and exported goods to undergo machine inspection seamlessly during loading, unloading or transportation, thus achieving immediate inspection upon passing. We have also piloted remote inspection, allowing enterprises to complete inspection procedures remotely with customs.

The goal of the Smart Customs initiative is to achieve seamless customs clearance, intelligent supervision, minimal disruption and comprehensive regulation, utilizing the intelligent technologies to contribute to building a great country and to promote high-quality development of our country's foreign trade.

Aligned with the overall goals outlined at the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC, our next step will focus on process optimization, information sharing and system integration to accelerate the development of Smart Customs. We will pursue steady progress while highlighting key areas, aiming to establish the basic framework of Smart Customs by 2026 and form a complete system by 2029.

Of course, the Smart Customs initiative is currently still in its initial stage. To develop it well and fast, we need the support and attention from all sectors of society, especially the media. We welcome your valuable suggestions to inspire us. Thank you.