My Experience at the XVI World Customs Law Meeting in Berlin

I recently had the honor of participating in the XVI World Customs Law Meeting, held at the historic Humboldt University in Berlin, Germany. This event, which brought together experts in international trade and customs law from 35 countries, was an enriching experience both professionally and personally.

During the two-day congress, the exchange of ideas and knowledge was simply extraordinary. Under the theme "Customs in Times of Global Change," we addressed highly relevant topics for those of us working in this field. We had the opportunity to analyze the impact of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, debate the challenges faced by customs administrations in light of mega free trade agreements, and discuss export restrictions on strategic raw materials, among other crucial issues.

One of the highlights for me was the diversity of attendees. I had the privilege of sharing space with lawmakers, judges from Argentina and other countries, international consultants, customs authorities, and attorneys from prestigious law firms. This exchange of perspectives allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the different realities and approaches that exist across various parts of the world—an invaluable asset that undoubtedly enhances my daily work.

For me, being present at a forum of this caliber is essential. In a world where trade and regulations are evolving at a dizzying pace, staying up to date is not an option—it’s a necessity. Moreover, this experience reaffirms my commitment to providing top-tier legal counsel to our clients at Pérez Díaz Abogados, grounded in international best practices and tailored to the current challenges of global trade.

This meeting not only provided me with technical insights but also inspired me to continue contributing to the development of a more efficient and fair global trade system. Berlin was the perfect setting to reflect on our role as Customs Law professionals in a context of global change. And I can proudly say that I return home with new ideas, valuable connections, and renewed energy to tackle the challenges of our profession.

Andrés Pérez Díaz Founding Partner of Pérez Díaz Abogados