Artificial Intelligence and Customs Operations

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is significantly transforming the customs clearance process, making it more efficient and streamlined. Here are some key ways AI is being integrated into customs operations:

- Automated Detection Tools: AI has become an integral part of non-intrusive inspection technology, helping customs officers identify specific objects, abnormalities, radioactive materials, and goods such as tobacco or liquor bottles within seconds. This technology is ever-evolving and can be customized to address specific commodities and smuggling trends¹.

- Streamlining En-route Processes: For seaborne containers, AI enables the transformation of customs inspection into a streamlined en-route process. This increases inspection rates without disrupting travel or trade. For example, at the Port of Qingdao in China, a sky rail is used to transport containers, and a modular high-energy inspection system scans every container transported along the rail route¹.

- AI in Tariff Classification: AI and machine learning are supporting customs by automating the tariff classification process. This includes keyword search systems, algorithmic analysis of classification options, and various AI and ML systems that help maintain accuracy and efficiency in customs operations².

- Enhancing Accuracy and Compliance: AI services have automated the analysis of trade documents and regulatory compliance. AI systems swiftly identify non-compliance concerns in invoices, customs declarations, and other documents using natural language processing and machine learning techniques. This automation accelerates customs clearance, reduces errors, and streamlines trade processes⁴.

- Global Trade Modernization: The integration of AI into customs operations marks a significant leap forward in modernizing global trade processes. By harnessing the power of AI, customs authorities and businesses are transforming the way goods are cleared at borders, making the process faster, more accurate, and less labor-intensive³.

These advancements in AI are paving the way for a more efficient and secure global trade environment, benefiting both customs authorities and businesses involved in international trade.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 31/05/2024

(1) The AI revolution is underway, and this is good news for Customs. https://mag.wcoomd.org/magazine/wco-news-99-issue-3-2022/ai-revolution-is-underway/.

(2) AI and customs – automation and machine learning - Maersk. https://www.maersk.com/insights/digitalisation/2024/02/14/ai-customs-clearance-automation-and-machine-learning.

(3) The Power of Artificial Intelligence: Impact on Customs Operations. https://medium.com/@iCustoms.ai/the-power-of-artificial-intelligence-impact-on-customs-operations-df5aaf4ed134.

(4) Simplifying Customs Clearance: AI Transforming Global Trade. https://rtslabs.com/simplifying-customs-clearance.

(5) Artificial Intelligence | Impact on Customs Operations | iCustoms. https://www.icustoms.ai/blogs/artificial-intelligence-impact-on-customs-operations/.