Imagine a nation's trade arteries clogged by inefficient customs valuation processes - delayed cargo clearance, increased business costs, and diminished economic vitality. This scenario underscores how crucial accurate and efficient customs valuation is for international trade. The World Customs Organization (WCO) recognizes this critical link and is actively assisting developing nations like Togo in strengthening their customs valuation capabilities.
WCO Technical Assistance: Revitalizing Togo's Customs Valuation
From May 17-21, 2016, the WCO conducted a specialized training workshop in Lomé to help Togo's Revenue Authority (OTR) fully restore its customs valuation functions. Previously, OTR had outsourced portions of this critical work to private inspection companies. This capacity-building initiative formed part of WCO's technical assistance program to enhance customs officers' professional skills and ensure valuation compliance.
Gathering of Experts
The workshop brought together 30 specialists and trainers from OTR's Customs and Indirect Tax Department (CDDI) - the core professionals responsible for advancing Togo's customs valuation standards. WCO experts provided comprehensive support to ensure training quality and effectiveness.
Strategic Capacity Building
This training marked the second phase of WCO's technical assistance. The initial diagnostic phase in November 2015 featured two WCO valuation experts conducting thorough assessments of CDDI's customs valuation control system. Their findings informed the subsequent training design, ensuring targeted and impactful knowledge transfer.
Expert-Led Training
The workshop was jointly led by a WCO technical specialist and a WCO-accredited trainer from West and Central Africa. Their deep expertise in WTO valuation rules and WCO methodologies delivered high-quality instruction to participants.
Core Curriculum
The intensive program focused on:
• Mastery of WTO Customs Valuation Agreement provisions
• Practical application of valuation databases for risk management
• Procedures for handling valuation cases with reasonable doubt under WTO guidelines
Interactive learning methods including case studies and group discussions enhanced participant engagement and knowledge retention.
Tangible Outcomes
Participants completed the training with strengthened capacity to properly assess import values according to WTO standards. Many are now qualified to train colleagues, creating a multiplier effect for Togo's customs workforce.
Recognition of Achievement
All participants received WCO training certificates, validating their newly acquired expertise and motivating continued professional development.
WCO's Ongoing Commitment
The organization remains dedicated to supporting developing countries through technical assistance programs that enhance customs operations, facilitate trade, and promote sustainable economic growth.
This initiative demonstrates how strategic capacity building in customs valuation can remove trade barriers and stimulate economic activity. The WCO-Togo collaboration serves as a model for similar development efforts worldwide.