Do you still have space on your New Year’s resolution list or want to make a change? Or does the list already need an overhaul? If a change or refocusing is required, and if you are a customs and international-trade specialist, this invitation is to you, particularly if you want to make a real difference by playing a pivotal role in shaping customs policies and initiatives.

If you require a bit of prodding, let me remind you of President John F Kennedy’s words: “One person can make a difference, and everyone should try.” As for ‘try’, which Yoda, in The Empire Strikes Back, took issue with: “Do. Or do not. There is no try.”

Now, as for doing, have you ever heard of the Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG)? In essence, during the World Customs Organisation (WCO) annual sessions on June 23, 2005, the organisation’s council agreed to the establishment of the PSCG. It was formed for the purpose of informing and advising the WCO secretary-general, the WCO’s Policy Commission and WCO members on customs and international-trade matters from the perspective of the private sector. The PSCG complements the vital contributions made by private-sector observers to WCO committee meetings. As the PSCG only plays an advisory role, its members may not be represented or participate as the ‘PSCG’ at non-WCO external events.

Besides informing and advising, the PSCG’s key roles are to support the adoption and effective implementation of agreed WCO and other relevant international instruments and to leverage business resources and government relationships to advocate for and implement programmes developed and adopted by the WCO. Moreover, at the conclusion of each meeting, the PSCG provides a written report for the WCO secretary-general and the Policy Commission.

On February 10, the WCO extended an invitation for applications for membership in the PSCG. This is an opportunity to contribute your expertise to inform and advise the WCO on customs and international-trade matters from the private sector’s perspective. The PSCG plays a pivotal role in guiding the WCO’s policies and initiatives. More details about the PSCG and its terms of reference can be found on the WCO website.

The WCO’s “desired competencies/characteristics of PSCG members” are: demonstrated expertise and experience in customs and international-trade matters; ability and willingness to actively participate in relevant WCO initiatives and working groups; representation of diverse industry sectors, including, but not limited to, manufacturing and exporting industries, agriculture and food production, technology and e-commerce, energy and natural resources (including waste management and recycling, and forestry), green technologies, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, logistics and transportation, small and medium-sized enterprises, consumer goods and retail, among others; proficiency in English for effective communication; and commitment to ethical and professional conduct.

In terms of the WCO’s ‘Expectations and Accountability’, members of the PSCG are expected to actively engage in meetings, discussions and projects related to customs and the WCO; designate a capable delegate with decision-making authority and the ability to contribute to discussions; and prepare for meetings, contribute substantively to discussions and provide insights and recommendations (the PSCG meets three times a year at the WCO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium – online participation is possible). The WCO does not cover the costs for participation in these meetings, which is a policy applicable to WCO members as well. Members of the PSCG are also expected to maintain confidentiality when required and to act in the best interests of the PSCG and the WCO; contribute to PSCG work, such as policy recommendations or research; attend scheduled meetings and adhere to the established terms of reference; and collaborate with other PSCG members and WCO officials to achieve common goals.

A yearly review may be conducted by the WCO secretariat in consultation with the PSCG chairperson and vice-chairperson to assess each member’s contributions and adherence to expectations. So, there is simply no slacking if you are selected.

If you are interested in playing a role in shaping the future of customs and international trade and, more importantly, want to serve in the PSCG for the 2025/26 term, you need to submit your application before March 24.