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World Customs Organization

Rue du Marché 30, B-1210 Brussels, Belgium
T: +32 (0)2 209 92 11 / info@wcoomd.org

Gael GROOBY
Director, Policy and Standards
World Customs Organization (WCO)

MESSAGE

On behalf of the World Customs Organization (WCO), I extend our heartfelt congratula-
tions to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) of Indian Customs on its 68th Foun-
dation Day, and on the release of the 'Smuggling in India Report 2024–25'.

This milestone is testament to the DRI's unwavering commitment to protecting India's
society and economy from the threats posed by smuggling, illicit trade, and organized
crime.

As the WCO continues its transformation into a data-driven organization, the data con-
tributed by our Members to the Customs Enforcement Network (CEN) is pivotal. This
data forms the backbone of the WCO Illicit Trade Report (ITR), enabling us to generate
comprehensive, evidence-based insights into global enforcement challenges and identify
emerging trends. It also supports WCO Members in designing more targeted and effec-
tive responses to illicit trade.

In an era of technological advances and innovative enforcement approaches that are
reshaping the global security landscape, criminal networks are also becoming increas-
ingly agile and sophisticated in their tactics.

This makes the work of Customs administrations and enforcement agencies ever more
complex, demanding vigilance, adaptability and international cooperation. Against this
backdrop, the DRI’s ongoing efforts serve as a source of inspiration for the global Cus-
toms community.

Gael GROOBY
Director, Policy and Standards
World Customs Organization (WCO)

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