WCO and Europol Renew Partnership to Tackle Cross-Border Crime

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Europol have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening international efforts against transnational organized crime, following high-level discussions held during the European Police Chiefs Convention (EPCC) in The Hague.

The meeting brought together WCO Deputy Secretary General Ricardo Treviño and senior European police and customs officials to review ongoing cooperation and identify priorities for the months ahead. A key outcome was the signing of an updated Action Plan between the WCO and Europol, reinforcing a partnership that has been in place since the signing of their Cooperation Agreement in 2002.

Speaking on the sidelines of the convention, WCO and Europol officials highlighted the growing importance of intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement actions in combating increasingly sophisticated criminal networks operating across borders.

The renewed framework will support joint operations targeting illicit activities, including the trafficking of explosive precursor chemicals and violations of intellectual property rights. Officials said closer collaboration will also help customs and law enforcement agencies improve their ability to detect emerging criminal methods and strengthen supply chain security.

By combining Europol’s support to European Union member states with the WCO’s global customs network, the two organizations aim to enhance international cooperation, facilitate information exchange and improve the effectiveness of enforcement actions worldwide. The updated Action Plan underscores the shared commitment of both institutions to protecting societies, securing global trade flows and disrupting criminal networks through stronger customs-police cooperation.