African Customs Officials Train at WCO As Trade Grows

African Customs Officials Train at WCO As Trade Grows

The World Customs Organization (WCO) hosted a study visit for customs experts from Portuguese-speaking African countries, aiming to enhance their application of the Harmonized System (HS) and promote regional trade development. The activities included participation in the HS Committee (HSC) meeting, meetings with representatives of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), and planned capacity-building workshops to strengthen tariff classification and customs cooperation. The visit focused on improving skills and fostering collaboration to facilitate trade and ensure accurate classification practices within the region.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Peru Adopts Global Standards for Customs Valuation

Peru Adopts Global Standards for Customs Valuation

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, Peruvian Customs held a virtual forum focusing on customs valuation risk management. Participants exchanged experiences on database applications and discussed optimizing value verification procedures and public-private partnerships to combat valuation irregularities. Peruvian Customs plans to strengthen its value verification system and deepen collaboration with the private sector. The WCO will continue to provide support, enhancing transparency and predictability in cross-border trade. The forum highlighted the importance of efficient and fair customs valuation for trade facilitation.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade

WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade

On International Women's Day 2025, the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlights its 'Women in Customs' initiative, emphasizing the vital role of women in the customs domain. By showcasing exemplary female figures, the WCO aims to promote gender equality and diversity. Initiatives like the 'Customs Gender Equality and Diversity Framework' are being introduced to foster a fairer, more inclusive, and efficient customs administration system. The WCO is committed to building a future where women can thrive and contribute fully to the success of customs worldwide.

03/07/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked DIAN Reform

Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked DIAN Reform

The WCO supported the Colombian National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) in its strategic planning efforts. Workshops were conducted to enhance the strategic development capabilities of DIAN officials. Technical assistance was provided in areas such as risk management and post-clearance audit. The aim was to improve the efficiency and transparency of Colombian customs, promote economic growth, and build a modern customs system. This initiative strengthens DIAN's capacity to effectively manage trade and contribute to Colombia's economic development by streamlining customs procedures and ensuring compliance.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Strengthens Border Controls with New Customs Measures

Moldova Strengthens Border Controls with New Customs Measures

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a risk management workshop for the Customs Service of Moldova. This initiative aimed to enhance their capabilities in combating fraud and improving risk analysis at airports. The workshop contributes to building a more secure border protection system for Moldova, strengthening its ability to identify and mitigate potential threats related to cross-border movements of goods and people. By focusing on risk management principles and best practices, the WCO supports Moldova in safeguarding its national security and facilitating legitimate trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EUWCO Project Boosts African Customs Modernization Trade

EUWCO Project Boosts African Customs Modernization Trade

The EU-WCO cooperation project promotes customs modernization in Africa by optimizing the Harmonized System and rules of origin, and strengthening capacity building. This creates a more efficient trade environment, fostering intra-African trade and regional economic integration. The project has yielded significant results and will continue to support African customs development, contributing to the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Its focus on streamlining procedures and enhancing skills will be crucial for unlocking Africa's trade potential and fostering sustainable economic growth across the continent.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Philippines Boosts Trade with Wcobacked AEO Program

Philippines Boosts Trade with Wcobacked AEO Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Philippines to enhance its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. Through capacity building missions and practical exercises, the initiative aims to improve BOC officials' skills in verifying AEO security standards. This effort seeks to promote trade facilitation in the Philippines, foster a better business environment, and support its cooperation within ASEAN. Further in-depth training will be provided to refine the AEO system, injecting new momentum into the Philippines' trade development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aims to Streamline Global Trade Processes

WCO Aims to Streamline Global Trade Processes

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively participated in the 2023 World Economic Forum, emphasizing the importance of enhancing global trade efficiency through eliminating bureaucratic obstacles, embracing technological innovation, and strengthening international cooperation. WCO Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya met with various leaders to discuss the role of customs in promoting trade facilitation, aiming to reduce trade costs, promote cross-border investment, and ultimately benefit global consumers. The WCO advocates for streamlined customs procedures and collaborative efforts to foster a more efficient and inclusive global trading system.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Botswana Overhauls Tax Agency for Improved Efficiency

Botswana Overhauls Tax Agency for Improved Efficiency

The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS), in collaboration with the WCO, implemented a competency-based human resource management program. This initiative aimed to enhance organizational performance, improve employee engagement, and strengthen border management. The program focused on identifying and developing the necessary skills and knowledge for BURS staff to effectively carry out their duties, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and effective tax administration system in Botswana. The partnership with WCO provided valuable expertise and support in the design and implementation of the competency model.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Border Security with Trade Control Training

WCO Enhances Border Security with Trade Control Training

The World Customs Organization's (WCO) Strategic Trade Control Enforcement (STCE) Expert Training and Certification Program aims to develop a professional workforce and enhance member customs' enforcement capabilities to combat the illicit trade of items related to weapons of mass destruction. Through systematic training and rigorous certification, the program builds a sustainable training system, promotes international cooperation, and drives the unification of STCE standards, contributing to global security. This initiative fosters a global network of trained experts dedicated to preventing the proliferation of sensitive goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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