Meeting of the Heads of Customs Administrations of the OTS held in Turkistan

The 11th Meeting of the Heads of Customs Administrations of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was convened on 8 September 2025 in Turkistan, bringing together senior officials and representatives from the Customs Administrations of Member and Observer States, as well as Georgia.

The Meeting focused on enhancing the competitiveness of the Middle Corridor through the simplification of customs procedures, digitalization, and improved border-crossing efficiency. Key topics included the expansion of the e-TIR system, the adoption of One-Stop Shop and Single Window mechanisms, and the integration of modern technologies such as electronic seals and cargo tracking systems. Participants from OTS Member States shared their national experiences in customs modernization and provided updates on ongoing projects related to the digitalization of customs services.

Delegates also discussed the development and harmonization of Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs to streamline trade and facilitate cross-border movement within the OTS region.

In his address, Dr. Mirvokhid Azimov, Deputy Secretary General of the OTS, emphasized the importance of implementing the commitments outlined in the Bishkek and Budapest Declarations. He reaffirmed the instructions of the Heads of State to strengthen the Middle Corridor through closer cooperation with international partners and the adoption of efficient transit procedures.

The Meeting concluded with the signing of the following key documents:

Memorandum of Understanding among the Customs Administrations on Cooperation in the Field of Risk Management
Memorandum of Understanding among the Customs Administrations on Cooperation in the Field of Customs Laboratory
Joint Statement of the Heads of Customs Administrations of the Member States of the OTS on the Implementation of Annex 11 of the TIR Convention (1975, Geneva).

The Parties also agreed to expedite the launch of a Pilot Project under the Simplified Customs Corridor Agreement, aimed at facilitating faster border crossings, improving transit transportation, and fostering favorable conditions for foreign economic activities across the region.