DCN - AI will not replace customs brokers

Australia's logistics sector faces a critical shortage of customs brokers. AI can support compliance while addressing workforce challenges in trade, writes Paul Zalai

Customs brokers sit at the intersection of trade facilitation and border protection. They are responsible for ensuring that goods entering and leaving Australia comply with complex customs, biosecurity, trade sanctions and revenue laws. Their role is not administrative in nature, it is statutory. Customs brokers carry personal accountability under the Customs Act 1901 and associated licensing determinations. 

When there is a shortage of experienced customs brokers, the consequences extend beyond business inconvenience. Delays in cargo clearance, increased compliance risk, revenue leakage, biosecurity safeguards and reduced capacity to detect illicit trade are all potential outcomes.

 In short, customs brokerage capability is directly linked to national supply chain resilience.

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