CG Darboe made these remarks while delivering his official opening of a 4-day intensive training for 20 GRA staff on WCO-PMM, holding at Mesty Hotel from 10th to 14th March 2025.
The four days training is being organised by GRA and supported by World Customs Organization (WCO).
According to CG Darboe, the WCO Performance Measurement Mechanism WCO-PMM is a framework developed to help customs administrations worldwide assess their operations, thus the (WCO- PMM) enables customs authorities to measure and monitor various aspects of their work, focusing on efficiency, effectiveness and the quality of services provided to international trade and the public.
According to GRA boss, the key aspects of the WCO Performance Measurement Mechanism include helping customs authorities evaluate their performance against international standards and best practices, while allowing them to identify areas for improvement and streamline their process.
The Mechanism uses a set of Performance indicators, which could include metrics related to customs clearance, times compliance rates, revenue collection, enforcement activities, and trade facilitation.
These indicators provide both qualitative and quantitative insight into the operations of customs administrations.
On self-assessment, CG Darboe said customs administrations typically conduct self -assessment using the PMM. “This involves answering a series of questions and using data to evaluate their performance.” He added that the self-assessment is usually followed by a review or audit process to verify the results and identify areas where improvement can be made.
On improvement and capacity building, he indicated that based on the results of the performance measurement, customs administration can implement reforms and improvements. He cited that the WCO also provides capacity-building programmes, technical assistance and guidance to help customs authorities enhance their operational performance.
Also talking about alignment with international standards, he said the PMM is aligned with the WCO safe framework of standards and other international conventions, ensuring their customs operations are effective in promoting trade facilitation, security, and compliance.
On global implementation, he said: “The WCO encourages countries to adopt the PMM as a way of measuring performance consistently across different regions, promoting global trade efficiency, reducing barriers, and enhancing security.
