CUSTOMS COMPLIANCE, AI AND CUSTOMS BROKER ACCOUNTABILITY - Commentary and Best Practice

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

A recent article titled "AI will not replace Customs Brokers", published by Daily Cargo News and authored by Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA), outlines Australian Border Force (ABF) concerns regarding compliance across import and export declarations, including a high incidence of tariff classification errors.

The article further highlights the increasing utilisation of emerging technologies in compliance and enforcement activities, together with a strengthened regulatory focus on customs broker obligations and accountability. It also draws attention to broader structural workforce challenges within the customs and border environment, including capability gaps, an ageing workforce and ongoing difficulties in attracting and retaining skilled practitioners.

These factors have a direct impact on the trade compliance with increased reliance on licensed customs brokers to maintain accuracy, governance and adherence to regulatory requirements.

FTA acknowledges Daily Cargo News for publishing this important contribution to industry discussion.

Members are encouraged to review the full article - refer HERE

NOTE: Licensed customs brokers from Compliant Customs and Clear.ai, who are leading the development and application of artificial intelligence in the customs and trade compliance environment, will address these matters in detail at upcoming Border Compliance Program (24 CPD points) events, including:

• ABF Goods Compliance Update – high tariff classification error rate (import & export)
• Utilisation of emerging technologies
• Addressing customs broker risks, statutory obligations and governance

BORDER COMPLIANCE PROGRAM (24 CPD Points)

PERTH
SATURDAY 2 MAY 2026: New Venue: Novotel Perth, 388 Murray Street, Perth WA 
REGISTER HERE 
PROGRAM available HERE

SYDNEY
FRIDAY 8 MAY 2026: The Brighton Hotel
(formerly Novotel Hotel Brighton Beach)
The Grand Parade, Brighton Le-Sands NSW 
REGISTER HERE 
PROGRAM 
available HERE

SATURDAY 9 MAY 2026: The Brighton Hotel
(formerly Novotel Hotel Brighton Beach)
The Grand Parade, Brighton Le-Sands NSW 
REGISTER HERE 
PROGRAM 
available HERE

MELBOURNE
FRIDAY 15 MAY 2026: Hyatt Place, 1 English St, Essendon Fields, VIC
REGISTER HERE
PROGRAM available HERE

SATURDAY 16 MAY 2026: Hyatt Place, 1 English St, Essendon Fields, VIC
REGISTER HERE 
PROGRAM 
available HERE

BRISBANE
WEDNESDAY 27 MAY 2026: Brisbane Airport Conference Centre, Dryandra Road, QLD
REGISTER HERE
PROGRAM available HERE

Paul Zalai - Director FTA / Secretariat APSA