Global Experts Met for Canine Security Forum
International customs officials convened in Uzbekistan to advance canine operational standards.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Dogs
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Canine handlers and customs experts from 50 countries gathered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, for the 7th WCO Global Canine Forum. The three-day event focused on strengthening international cooperation for using detection dogs to combat illicit drug trafficking.
Why it matters
The forum provides a critical platform for agencies to share operational experiences and address emerging threats. It also highlighted new tools designed to standardize canine program management across borders.
The event hosted 150 participants representing 50 countries and 15 international organizations. The forum also honored the Uzbekistan National Canine Centre, which has served as a WCO Regional Dog Training Centre since 2008.
The players
World Customs Organisation
This intergovernmental organization is dedicated to improving the effectiveness and efficiency of customs administrations worldwide.
Uzbekistan National Canine Centre
Located in Tashkent, this facility has operated as a recognized WCO Regional Dog Training Centre since 2008.
The details
Attendees at the forum examined best practices for canine teams and strategies for countering international drug smuggling. The gathering also highlighted the 30th anniversary of the Uzbekistan National Canine Centre.
Timeline
March 2024: The previous WCO Global Canine Forum was held in Hong Kong.
June 2026: The WCO Council formally endorsed two new canine program management instruments.
September 7-9, 2026: The 7th WCO Global Canine Forum took place in Tashkent.
Culture Shift
The forum reflects a broader shift toward international standardization in specialized detection work. By aligning global canine programs with the WCO canine programme best practice compendiums, agencies are moving away from siloed training toward a unified enforcement strategy.
Increased standardization of canine detection programs may lead to more effective drug interdiction at international borders. These professional standards improve the reliability and safety of detection dog operations in security environments globally.
The takeaway
The gathering reinforces the vital role that highly trained canine teams play in modern global border security. Standardizing these practices ensures that detection dogs remain a reliable asset in the ongoing fight against international illicit trade.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest international initiatives in Dogs.
More information
Review the technical standards in the WCO canine programme best practice compendiums.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Freight News.
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Do you trust that international efforts are effectively reducing global illicit drug trafficking?
