Welcoming Closer Ties With Singapore

The New Zealand Customs Service hosted a week-long visit by a group of senior officials from Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

Led by Deputy Commissioner (Operations) Mr. Hsu Sin Yun, the delegation’s visit to New Zealand (7-11 July 2025) was centred on the use of technology to enhance border security, with a focus on fast freight and cargo-related operations.

New Zealand Customs’ Deputy Chief Executive International and Governance Joe Cannon said ICA’s visit will further strengthen New Zealand’s cooperative relationship with Singapore, which is a world-leader in the use of digital technology at the border.

“Singapore is a major global trading hub and while there is currently good cooperation between New Zealand and Singapore’s border agencies, there is an opportunity to deepen our links and share knowledge that will help us strengthen our response to transnational and serious organised crime.”

“ICA’s visit is a great opportunity to recognise a highly valued relationship as we work towards protecting our communities from the scourge of the illicit drug trade and help create opportunities for a more prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” Mr Cannon said.

ICA is responsible for the clearance and inspection of passengers, goods, and vehicles entering Singapore. Their priority is identifying and targeting risks associated with trade and travel.

ICA’s Deputy Commissioner (Operations) Mr. Hsu Sin Yun said: “The visit to the New Zealand Customs Service has been both insightful and thought provoking. I would like to express my greatest appreciation to New Zealand Customs for the warm hospitality and comprehensive sharing. And I look forward to strengthening and deepening the collaboration between our agencies.”

The Singaporean delegation visited Customs sites in Auckland and Wellington including Auckland International Airport, the Integrated Targeting and Operations Centre, and the newly opened Auckland Processing Centre.

There were a wide range of topics discussed during the visit including utilising technology to combat transnational and serious organised crime, criminal threats from inside the supply chain, ongoing eGate development, and staff training.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and Singapore. This visit supports the New Zealand Government’s objective of enhancing New Zealand’s strategic relationship with Singapore.

Notes:

• New Zealand has more free trade agreements (FTAs) with Singapore than with any other country [Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade].
• New Zealand Customs has a Mutual Recognition Arrangement in place with Singapore, which recognises supply chain security standards and grants authorised traders access to fast-track customs processing in both countries.
• In 2024, Customs signed a cooperation arrangement on Facilitating Safe and Efficient Trade with Singapore Customs and Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority. This set out a framework for developing and strengthening practical cooperation on trade and the use of emerging technology.
• Eligible New Zealand and Singapore citizens can use e-Gate/Frequent Traveller Programme facilities when arriving and departing from each other’s airports, enabling easier access through borders for travellers.

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