WCO Upgrades Gender Equality Tool for Customs Agencies

WCO Upgrades Gender Equality Tool for Customs Agencies

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released an updated Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT) to assist member customs and tax administrations in assessing the integration of gender equality and diversity within their internal policies, practices, and external relations. The 2023 update focuses on security, action, and user experience. It includes a new security and safety chapter, strengthens action-oriented templates, and optimizes user experience design. This aims to promote gender equality within the customs domain and improve organizational performance through a more inclusive and equitable environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos COPES Initiative Strengthens Customs Against Wildlife Trafficking

Wcos COPES Initiative Strengthens Customs Against Wildlife Trafficking

The WCO's COPES project aims to enhance customs' capacity to combat illegal wildlife trade. A workshop in Togo focused on evidence collection, case management, and international cooperation. INAMA provided financial support. The training sought to improve the effectiveness of customs officials in identifying, investigating, and prosecuting wildlife trafficking offenses. Emphasis was placed on collaborative efforts between national agencies and international partners to disrupt transnational criminal networks involved in the illegal trade of endangered species.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nigeria Customs Modernizes Ruling System to Ease Trade

Nigeria Customs Modernizes Ruling System to Ease Trade

The Nigeria Customs Service is actively implementing a national Advance Ruling System aimed at reducing trade costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing trade predictability for businesses by pre-determining commodity classification, tax rates, and other relevant matters. This initiative, part of the EU-World Customs Organization Africa HS project, draws on the successful experiences of Ethiopia and Liberia. It is expected to significantly improve Nigeria's business environment and promote economic development by providing clarity and certainty to traders before importation.

01/05/2026 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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WCO Enhances Customs Risk Management in Americas Caribbean

WCO Enhances Customs Risk Management in Americas Caribbean

With funding from the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a pre-accreditation workshop on risk management for technical advisors in the Americas and Caribbean region in Guatemala. The workshop aimed to expand the WCO's pool of experts and enhance the risk management capabilities of member customs administrations. Participants' technical knowledge, skills, and teamwork abilities were assessed during the seminar, laying the foundation for regional customs modernization efforts.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Scholarship Program Trains Future Customs Leaders Worldwide

WCO Scholarship Program Trains Future Customs Leaders Worldwide

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Scholarship Programme aims to cultivate future customs leaders, promote knowledge sharing, and enhance professional pride within the customs sector. The 85th iteration brought together participants from 15 countries worldwide. Through tailored training courses, field visits, and international collaboration, the program helps participants enhance their capabilities and contribute to the development of their respective customs administrations. The success of this program relies on the support of countries like Japan, China, and South Korea. It's a key initiative for global customs cooperation and development.

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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WCO Launches Stress Management Training for Customs Officers

WCO Launches Stress Management Training for Customs Officers

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched new training materials on employee wellbeing and stress management, aiming to empower customs executives and enhance resilience for both employees and the organization. The training covers six modules including wellbeing, designing organizational wellbeing programs, mental health, work-life balance, and stress management. The WCO will pilot the materials and plans to develop training for middle management and frontline staff to establish a culture of wellbeing within customs administrations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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G7 Urges Customs Reform to Enhance Global Trade

G7 Urges Customs Reform to Enhance Global Trade

The G7 Trade Ministers' joint statement highlights new trends in global trade, emphasizing the crucial role of customs in enhancing supply chain resilience, regulating e-commerce, and addressing climate change. The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively responds, committing to strengthen cooperation with emerging economies and enhance customs capacity building to address modern business challenges and promote efficient, responsible global trade. This includes focusing on streamlined procedures, data sharing, and technology adoption to improve border management and facilitate legitimate trade flows while combating illicit activities.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Tackle Ecommerce Valuation for Smoother Trade

Global Customs Tackle Ecommerce Valuation for Smoother Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held its second seminar on E-Commerce and Customs Valuation, focusing on the valuation challenges in cross-border e-commerce. The event brought together international organizations, customs administrations, and private sector representatives to discuss policies, procedures, and practices. The aim was to address the challenges posed by the dynamic nature of e-commerce trade, facilitate trade, and build a fair and efficient cross-border e-commerce ecosystem. The WCO is actively working to develop a more comprehensive e-commerce valuation system to promote the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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