Improving the Five-Layer “Smart Customs” Architecture and the Blockchain-Based Authorized Economic Operator System for the Digitalization of Customs Administration in Uzbekistan

This study examines the digitalization of management processes in the customs authorities of Uzbekistan, improving the speed and efficiency of customs control, and enhancing the quality of services provided to participants in foreign economic activity. The purpose of the study is to develop scientific and practical proposals for establishing a five-layer “Smart Customs” architecture adapted to customs administration and for the phased introduction of a blockchain-based Authorized Economic Operator certification system and a mutual recognition mechanism. The study applies systematic and comparative analysis, a process approach, functional modeling, induction and deduction, expert assessment, and methods for evaluating the impact of digital technologies on customs processes. The study proposes a five-layer “Smart Customs” architecture consisting of digital infrastructure, data and integration, artificial intelligence and analytics, digital services, and governance and monitoring. The architecture enables the integration of customs information systems, real-time data processing, automated risk identification, intelligence-based customs control, and monitoring of management decisions. In addition, a model has been developed for verifying the authenticity of Authorized Economic Operator certificates on the basis of blockchain, ensuring the immutability and transparency of operator-related data, and introducing a mutual recognition mechanism. The proposed solutions can help reduce customs clearance time, minimize the human factor, improve data accuracy and security, and expand simplified customs procedures for reliable business entities.