12th to 14th May 2025
The RSG meeting is currently taking place in Pretoria, South Africa, and is being hosted by the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
In his opening remarks, Mr. Beyers Theron, Director of Customs Border Operations, Ports of Entry, and Customs Compliance in South Africa, welcomed all delegates to Pretoria and expressed pride in South Africa’s role as host for the region. He highlighted that the new Regional Strategy 2025–2028 focuses on emerging issues that are critical to addressing the various challenges faced by Customs in fulfilling their mandate. Mr. Theron encouraged the RSG to remain focused and to deliver solid conclusions and recommendations for adoption by the Governing Council (GC). He also expressed gratitude to the outgoing WCO ESA ROCB Director, Mr. Larry Liza, for his dedication to the region and the excellent work accomplished during his tenure, and wished him success in his future endeavors.
Mr. Dinathsingh Mungla, Vice Chair’s representative and Chairperson of the RSG Meeting (Mauritius), conveyed the appreciation of the ESA Vice Chair and the entire leadership of the Mauritius Revenue Authority to the Government of South Africa for graciously hosting the region’s 41st RSG Meeting, alongside other important regional gatherings; the Regional Training Centres Heads Meeting and the 31st Governing Council Meeting. He emphasized that the Regional Steering Group provides a valuable platform for discussing key policy matters aligned with the objectives outlined in the Regional Strategy. Mr. Mungla announced that the Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB) is celebrating its 20th anniversary since its establishment. He commended the ROCB, Member administrations, and esteemed development partners for their continued efforts in supporting the region to reach this significant milestone. Mr. Mungla also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing Director, Mr. Larry Liza, for serving as a steadfast anchor for the region during his tenure, and highlighted the notable achievements realized under his leadership. Finally, he called for robust discussions on the presented reports and emphasized the importance of effective implementation of the new Regional Strategy (2025–2028).
Mr. Larry Liza, Director of the ROCB, thanked South Africa for hosting the back-to-back regional meetings and for the warm hospitality extended to the delegates. He expressed the region’s appreciation for South Africa’s continued support in advancing the successful implementation of the Regional Strategy. Mr. Liza noted that the development of the new Regional Strategy (2025–2028) had been completed and was now pending review by the 41st RSG and adoption by the 31st Governing Council (GC). He informed the meeting that this would be his final attendance in his capacity as Director. Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Liza shared heartfelt memories and experiences, assuring the region of his continued support and unwavering dedication whenever called upon. He concluded by extending his best wishes to all regional entities in their future endeavors.
