Mauritius hosts mid-term evaluation workshop on Operation DEMETER XII

A workshop focusing on the mid-term evaluation meeting for the Operation DEMETER XII aiming to take stock of the progress and effectiveness of the global enforcement initiative targeting illicit cross-border movement of hazardous waste, is being held from 06 to 08 July 2026.

The opening ceremony was held, this morning at the Integrated Customs Clearance Centre at Le Chaland in Mahébourg, in the presence of the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to Mauritius, Dr Huang Shifang, and the Director General of the Mauritius Revenue Authority, Mr Rohit Ramnawaz,

The workshop brings together around 35 participants from Angola, Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, South Africa and China, amongst others. Key areas of focus include the review of operational outcomes, identification of challenges, and the strengthening of cooperation among participating administrations to better combat environmental crime linked to illegal waste trafficking.

In her address, Ambassador Shifang commended the World Customs Organization (WCO) for its vital role in promoting international customs standards, deepening law enforcement cooperation and strengthening capacity building. She highlighted the longstanding diplomatic ties between China and Africa, spanning more than 70 years, and reaffirmed China's commitment to expanding market access for African countries.

In this regard, she noted that China has implemented a zero-tariff policy for products from 53 African countries. This initiative, she emphasised, will further expand access to the Chinese market, facilitating Africa's deeper integration into global value chains.

Mrs Shifang said that a strong customs administration is indispensable in achieving shared objectives. She further pointed out that a modern, transparent and fair customs system is integral to fostering a conducive business environment.

According to her, customs authorities stand on the frontline in combatting environmental crime, preventing illicit cross-border movement of wastes and implementing international environmental conventions, thus the need to enhance the skills and capacities of custom officers.

As for Mr Ramnawaz, he urged stronger regional and international collaboration in the field and expressed his appreciation to the Chinese government for its assistance in customs administration. He stated that capacity-building is instrumental in honing the skills of customs officers, enabling them to perform their duties more effectively while protecting society.

Operation DEMETER XII is a major global enforcement initiative led by the WCO targeting the illegal transboundary trade of hazardous waste, plastic waste, and ozone-depleting substances. The DEMETER campaigns—running annually since 2009 seek to intercept shipments of e-waste, used batteries, toxic scrap metal, and illegal chemicals that violate the Basel and Montreal conventions.

06 July 2026

Email: gis@govmu.org

Website: https://gis.govmu.org

Mobile App: GIS News

Topics: Environment, Taxation