Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Customs, has met with Yojiro Uchino, Deputy Director General of the Customs and Tariff Bureau of Japan, as part of Abu Dhabi’s economic delegation to Japan.
They discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation, identifying new opportunities, and exchanging expertise and global best practices in customs operations. Particular emphasis was placed on digital technologies and advanced smart solutions that can facilitate trade flows and advance future economic development.
Uchino welcomed the Director-General of Abu Dhabi Customs and his accompanying delegation, reaffirming Japan Customs’ strong commitment to advancing bilateral customs cooperation.
He emphasized the importance of openness and forward-thinking, highlighting Japan Customs’ strategic vision for the future of customs operations, particularly the transformative impact of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
Uchino also commended Abu Dhabi Customs for its digital innovation and noted that these collaborative efforts will further strengthen the growing partnership ahead of the anticipated signing of the Mutual Customs Assistance Agreement between Japan and the UAE, which aims to establish a strong legal framework for information sharing.
Al Mansoori expressed his sincere appreciation for the warm welcome extended by Japan Customs. He underscored the strong ties between Abu Dhabi, the UAE, and Japan, describing Japan as a key strategic partner. These relations, he noted, are set to deepen further with the anticipated signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Al Mansoori indicated that Abu Dhabi Customs’ commitment to leading the digital and technological transformation of customs services through the adoption of innovative initiatives such as the TradeChain blockchain platform, the AI-driven Integrated Risk Management System, and the proposed Trusted Digital Trade Corridor pilot project.
He described the visit as a milestone in the growing partnership between the two sides, especially in smart trade facilitation, border security, and the development of advanced customs systems responsive to future challenges.
The Abu Dhabi Customs delegation also participated in several key events during the visit, including Expo 2025 Osaka, SusHi Tech Tokyo, the 11th Abu Dhabi–Japan Economic Council, the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum, and the Abu Dhabi–Tokyo Business Forum, all of which aim to promote investment, innovation, and exchange of expertise.
