Kazakhstan Adopts WCO Method to Boost Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Adopts WCO Method to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for the Kazakhstan Customs Service to help measure cargo clearance times, identify bottlenecks, and optimize processes. Kazakhstan has established a Single Window platform and plans further digitalization. Despite pandemic challenges, the country intends to implement the TRS to improve trade efficiency. Recommendations include establishing a project team, strengthening training, developing a data quality control system, and enhancing international cooperation. The TRS aims to streamline customs procedures and boost Kazakhstan's trade competitiveness.

WCO Releases Crisis Guidelines for Global Customs Coordination

WCO Releases Crisis Guidelines for Global Customs Coordination

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 'Communication Guidelines During Crisis' to assist member customs administrations in addressing communication challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidelines emphasize the importance of defining clear communication objectives, selecting appropriate channels, developing clear strategies, building efficient teams, and strengthening internal communication. It encourages members to share practical experiences to jointly address the global crisis and maintain trade order. The guide provides a framework for effective communication during times of uncertainty and disruption.

WCO and WTO Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

WCO and WTO Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the World Trade Organization (WTO), held an advanced training course in Geneva for chairpersons of National Trade Facilitation Committees from French-speaking countries. The course aimed to enhance their understanding of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and improve their communication and collaboration skills with stakeholders. The curriculum was based on WCO's capacity building materials and introduced key tools such as the Mercator Program. Both organizations will continue their collaboration to organize similar courses for Spanish-speaking countries.

Egypt Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Customs Modernization

Egypt Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Customs Modernization

The Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA), with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), has developed a new vision, mission, and strategic plan. By enhancing customs efficiency, strengthening risk management, promoting compliance, improving transparency, and fostering international cooperation, the ECA aims to become an efficient, transparent, and trustworthy customs agency, contributing to Egypt's economic prosperity. This strategic transformation will improve Egypt's trade competitiveness and provide a reference for other developing countries. The plan focuses on modernization and alignment with international best practices.

Luxor Resolution Sets New Compliance Standards for Crossborder Ecommerce

Luxor Resolution Sets New Compliance Standards for Crossborder Ecommerce

The World Customs Organization (WCO) adopted the Luxor Resolution, establishing guiding principles for cross-border e-commerce. These principles cover eight key areas: advance electronic data, facilitation, security, taxation, data analysis, partnerships, public awareness, and legal frameworks. Furthermore, a communique was issued to the WTO Ministerial Conference, reaffirming the WCO's leadership in managing cross-border e-commerce. This initiative aims to promote the standardized, efficient, and secure development of global cross-border e-commerce.

CAR Rebuilds Customs with WCO Aid Postcrisis

CAR Rebuilds Customs with WCO Aid Postcrisis

With WCO support, the Central African Republic Customs has launched post-crisis reforms aimed at building institutional capacity, compliance enforcement, trade facilitation, and international cooperation through strategic planning and recovery programs. The reforms prioritize border security and utilize data analysis to quantify their impact. These efforts contribute to national economic development and security assurance.

WCO Enhances Bosnias Tax Authority Risk Management

WCO Enhances Bosnias Tax Authority Risk Management

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Indirect Taxation Authority of Bosnia and Herzegovina (ITA BiH) in enhancing its risk management capabilities through a national workshop. The workshop covered risk assessment, profiling, information management, and resource optimization, fostering exchange between ITA BiH and international experts. This event laid the foundation for ITA BiH to strengthen its risk management system and improve enforcement efficiency. Recommendations included continued international cooperation and domestic collaboration to further improve risk management practices.

WCO JICA Team Up to Enhance African Trade Facilitation

WCO JICA Team Up to Enhance African Trade Facilitation

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are strengthening their collaboration to enhance trade facilitation in Africa. This initiative focuses on improving Africa's competitiveness in global value chains through the development of One-Stop Border Posts, capacity building, and the optimization of trade corridors. The WCO Secretary General also lectured scholarship students on strategic priorities, emphasizing information exchange, agreement implementation, and e-commerce regulation. These efforts aim to support sustainable economic development across the African continent.

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms for Economic Growth

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms for Economic Growth

The WCO supports the Uganda Revenue Authority in implementing the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement, enhancing trade efficiency. Uganda's adoption of WCO tools has significantly improved its trade facilitation performance. This collaboration has streamlined customs procedures, reduced border delays, and fostered greater transparency, ultimately contributing to economic growth and regional integration in Uganda. The initiatives focus on capacity building, automation, and risk management to modernize customs operations and facilitate legitimate trade flows.

WCO and WTO Enhance Collaboration to Boost Global Trade

WCO and WTO Enhance Collaboration to Boost Global Trade

The World Customs Organization and the World Trade Organization reached a consensus at the 6th Global Aid for Trade Review, agreeing to further deepen cooperation to jointly promote the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and strengthen collaboration in emerging areas such as e-commerce. This collaborative effort aims to create a more convenient and efficient environment for global trade, reducing barriers and fostering economic growth through streamlined customs procedures and enhanced international partnerships. The focus remains on facilitating smoother cross-border transactions and leveraging digital technologies for trade advancement.