On 20 July 2026, the World Customs Organization (WCO) issued a call for private-sector entities to apply to join the renewed WCO Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG), with applications closing on 21 August 2026.
The PSCG is a global forum that brings real-world business experience directly into discussions with the international Customs community to support the WCO’s work.
The 2026 WCO Council Sessions approved revised Terms of Reference and new Rules of Procedure for the PSCG. This group has now been formed to advise the WCO Secretary General, the Permanent Technical Committee and WCO members on Customs and international trade matters from the perspective of the private sector. This includes, but is not limited to, contributions to the development and implementation of WCO instruments and tools. WCO is now seeking applications from private sector entities to join the renewed PSCG.
What is the PSCG?
In simple terms, the PSCG is a platform where businesses can bring their operational experience and ideas to contribute to discussions on Customs international instruments and guidelines. It is a space to look beyond individual business priorities for advancing the efficiency of Customs operations.
The creation of the PSCG dates back to 2005. The Group was formed under the WCO High-Level Strategic Group to advise it on progress and issues related to the implementation of the Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade (SAFE Framework of Standards). In 2007, the Group was attached to the SAFE Working Group, the successor to the High-Level Strategic Group, to maintain and further develop the Framework.
What does the PSCG do?
The PSCG’s key responsibilities are to:
- provide objective, informed and constructive input on documents submitted by the WCO for the PSCG’s review;
- upon request of the WCO Secretariat, and under its own initiative, submit targeted research, proposals or studies that can inform WCO standard-setting work;
- support the adoption and effective implementation of agreed WCO and other relevant international instruments and tools;
- leverage business resources and government relationships to advocate for and implement instruments and tools developed and adopted by the WCO;
- continue PSCG engagement with the SAFE Working Group (SWG), including acting as co-chair of the SWG and participating in its working groups and meetings.
Who is the WCO looking for?
The WCO is looking to create a group of businesses representing the realities of global trade – in all its diversity. Large companies and small businesses. Manufacturers and digital platforms. Logistics and transport operators. Traders, service providers and business associations. Established global players and growing MSMEs.
The PSCG consists of up to 30 members appointed by the WCO Secretary General. Eligible candidates are private-sector entities that understand the realities of doing business across borders and are ready to contribute to the WCO’s work. They could be large companies or small businesses, manufacturers or digital platforms, logistics operators, traders, service providers and business associations. The WCO will employ a system of rotation to promote diversity of membership, equity and renewal.
PSCG members are required to meet regularly to coordinate work, either in person at the WCO headquarters or virtually. They are also invited to attend the PTC sessions and the SAFE Working Group meetings, which are co-chaired by the chairperson of the PSCG.
How to apply to join the PSCG
To be eligible for membership, interested entities may apply online via this link. We encourage all applicants to carefully review the Terms of Reference (ToR) and Rules of Procedure for the PSCG before applying. Applications are open until 21 August 2026.