Hong Kong Customs held a Canine, Enforcement and Detection Capacity Building Workshop from November 26 to 29. Thirty-seven representatives from members of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia/Pacific (A/P) Region, mainly dog handlers, dog instructors and frontline officers responsible for customs clearance duties, were invited to participate in the workshop. The workshop concluded today (November 29).
Recent recognition as a Regional Dog Training Centre (RDTC) by the WCO in June 2023 solidified Hong Kong Customs' position as a leader in canine enforcement in the A/P region, underlining the department's dedication to providing professional canine training and support to WCO members.
The workshop was the first canine-themed capacity building event held after the 6th WCO Global Canine Forum that was organised in March this year. Key agenda items included a series of presentations and discussions focusing on best practices in canine enforcement, training and breeding, and visiting facilities of Hong Kong Customs. Participants shared experiences on emerging smuggling trends and challenges, and explored innovative initiatives and operational strategies to enhance their canine professionalism and enforcement capacity. They also visited the newly established RDTC of Hong Kong Customs and enjoyed dog demonstrations, gaining insights into the achievements and latest developments of the Hong Kong Customs Canine Force.
The four-day workshop yielded fruitful results. Members not only benefited from the practical knowledge and invaluable insights, but also built up partnerships and connections with their neighbouring canine enforcement counterparts that will help to strengthen their own canine forces and bolster collective efforts in combating transnational smuggling activities.
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