About International Customs Day
International Customs Day, on 26 January, recognises customs officers and the work they do to secure borders and keep trade moving. It is led by the World Customs Organization and marks the first session of the Customs Co-operation Council in 1953.
International Customs Day honours customs officers and staff around the world. Their work includes collecting duties, facilitating legitimate trade, and stopping smuggling of drugs, weapons, wildlife and counterfeit goods.
The day is led by the World Customs Organization (WCO). It falls on 26 January because the Customs Co-operation Council, the body that later became the WCO, held its first session in Brussels on that date in 1953.
How it is marked
Customs administrations hold ceremonies and recognise officers for outstanding service, and the WCO sets a focus for the year and awards certificates of merit to officers and partners. Customs agencies run public awareness activities on safe and legal trade, travel rules and counterfeit goods, and colleagues and families thank the officers who work at ports, airports and land borders.
In India, customs work is overseen by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). Because 26 January is also Republic Day, the observance often sits alongside national celebrations.
What to write
Thank the officer for their vigilance and service, keeping the tone respectful and warm.
- Happy International Customs Day, bhaiya. Hope the night shifts at the airport get a little lighter this year.
- Proud of the whole team at the port. Quiet, careful work that most people never see, and it matters.
- To the officer who helped us sort out the baggage mix-up at 3 a.m., thank you for your patience.
How to wish someone on International Customs Day
thanks to customs officers who protect borders, collect revenue and help trade move smoothly
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is International Customs Day on 26 January?
It marks the first session of the Customs Co-operation Council, held in Brussels on 26 January 1953. The council later became the World Customs Organization.
What does a customs officer do?
Customs officers check goods and travellers crossing borders, collect duties and taxes, and stop the smuggling of illegal or restricted items such as drugs, weapons and counterfeit goods.
Who handles customs in India?
Customs in India is administered by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), under the Department of Revenue in the Ministry of Finance.
When is International Customs Day in 2026?
International Customs Day 2026 falls on Monday, 26 January 2026.
What is International Customs Day?
International Customs Day, on 26 January, recognises customs officers and the work they do to secure borders and keep trade moving. It is led by the World Customs Organization and marks the first session of the Customs Co-operation Council in 1953.
Is International Customs Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Customs Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Customs Day?
Focus on thanks to customs officers who protect borders, collect revenue and help trade move smoothly. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Customs Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .