In its quest to be a world-class service provider, the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) is forging partnerships with leading revenue authorities around the world. 

On the margins of the just-concluded World Customs Organisation Council meeting in Belgium, NamRA's Commissioner Sam Shivute held talks with several counterparts on consolidating collaborations. 

In a follow-up meeting with the Vice Minister of the General Administration of China Customs, Wang Lingjun, who was in Namibia last month, Shivute appreciated the opportunity that has since been extended to NamRA staff to pursue short courses in China, related to taxation and customs. 

On his part, Lingjun reiterated his call for NamRA to explore the benefits presented by China's smart customs initiative for adaptation to the Namibian context. 

Shivute also met United States Customs and Border Protection Assistant Commissioner James Collins, who expressed readiness to support customs administrations battling fragile border challenges. 

The NamRA Commissioner indicated the need for collaboration in e-commerce regulation as a growing phenomenon globally, with other tailored joint training programmes. 

The Canadian Border Services Agency's Vice President for Commercial and Trade Branch, Jennifer Lutfallah, welcomed further discussions on specific activities between the two agencies. 

Shivute was optimistic that NamRA could benefit from the experience of the Canadian Border Agency, given the vastness of that country and the effectiveness of their systems and processes. 

The annual WCO Council Meeting presents an opportunity for member states to discuss global developments linked to customs mandates and conversations on enhanced bilateral cooperation.