East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly held a workshop in Uganda to enhance customs intelligence analysis capabilities and strengthen anti-smuggling efforts in East Africa. Customs officials from various East African countries collaborated to develop post-seizure analysis training materials. Experts from the WCO and Japan Customs provided guidance to help East African customs improve their intelligence-driven risk management and combat smuggling crimes. The workshop aimed to build capacity and foster regional cooperation in tackling cross-border illicit trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kyrgyz Uzbek Customs Officers Train in Moscow to Combat Smuggling

Kyrgyz Uzbek Customs Officers Train in Moscow to Combat Smuggling

RILO CIS conducted a training in Moscow for customs officers from Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on the use of CEN/CENcomm. This training aimed to enhance their capabilities in combating smuggling and fostering regional cooperation. The program focused on practical application and knowledge sharing to improve the effectiveness of customs enforcement efforts in the region. By providing officers with the necessary tools and expertise, RILO CIS contributes to a more secure and efficient trade environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

In 2017, Lao Customs officers participated in a training program on airport compliance and enforcement, supported by the World Customs Organization and sponsored by the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund. The training aimed to enhance Lao Customs' capabilities in passenger risk management. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, participants mastered key skills such as risk assessment, risk profiling, and target selection. They also learned practical methods including verbal and non-verbal risk assessment and questioning techniques. This initiative contributes to the modernization of Lao Customs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Clearance Challenges Addressing Discrepancies and Errors

Customs Clearance Challenges Addressing Discrepancies and Errors

Customs declaration issues are common in foreign trade. This article details three handling methods for problems like weight discrepancies and incorrect information during customs declaration: cancel and re-declare, dealing with the Anti-Smuggling Department, and modifying the declaration. It explains the definitions, differences, costs, and time involved for each. The article emphasizes the seriousness of customs penalties and aims to help foreign traders and freight forwarding companies better handle customs declaration anomalies, ensuring smooth customs clearance.

08/21/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Streamlining Customs Clearance for Detained Port Goods

Streamlining Customs Clearance for Detained Port Goods

The handling process for cargo detained in the port area but not yet transferred to the anti-smuggling department involves submitting a statement of circumstances, applying for re-inspection, on-site communication, accepting suggestions, and re-declaring. The key is to actively communicate with customs authorities, seek their understanding and support, and complete the relevant procedures as soon as possible to minimize detention costs. Proactive engagement and timely action are crucial to resolving the issue efficiently and mitigating potential financial losses associated with prolonged cargo detention.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Air Cargo Tightens Rules to Curb Lithium Battery Smuggling

Global Air Cargo Tightens Rules to Curb Lithium Battery Smuggling

Undeclared lithium batteries pose a significant threat to aviation safety. This paper delves into the causes and dangers of undeclared shipments, emphasizing the importance of ICAO and IATA regulations. It proposes collaborative strategies for shippers, freight forwarders, airlines, customs, and regulatory bodies to effectively prevent risks and ensure compliant lithium battery transportation. By working together, stakeholders can strengthen aviation safety and mitigate the dangers associated with undeclared lithium battery shipments in air cargo.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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RILO Report Highlights Smuggling Trends in Eastern Europe Central Asia

RILO Report Highlights Smuggling Trends in Eastern Europe Central Asia

RILO Eastern and Central Europe (ECE) has released the latest edition of its 'Herald' magazine. This issue features articles from Albanian and Moldovan intelligence liaisons, showcasing recent project operations and WCO activity information. The magazine provides valuable intelligence on smuggling crime for customs, border management, and law enforcement officials. It serves as a key resource for understanding current trends and fostering international cooperation in combating illicit trade and enhancing border security within the region.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Francophone Customs Chiefs Meet in Dakar to Boost Trade Curb Smuggling

Francophone Customs Chiefs Meet in Dakar to Boost Trade Curb Smuggling

The 19th Conference of Heads of Customs Administrations of French-Speaking Countries was held in Senegal, focusing on trade facilitation, economic competitiveness, and customs cooperation in combating illicit trade. The conference adopted the 'Dakar Declaration,' which proposes ten recommendations aimed at simplifying customs clearance procedures, strengthening information sharing, deepening regional cooperation, and improving personnel skills. The WCO pledged its support and will establish a follow-up monitoring system. The Prime Minister of Senegal expressed appreciation and encouragement for the work of customs officials from French-speaking countries.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Trains Customs Officials to Fight Cultural Heritage Trafficking

WCO Trains Customs Officials to Fight Cultural Heritage Trafficking

The World Customs Organization (WCO) trained Customs officers from the Middle East and North Africa in Beirut to enhance their capacity to combat cultural property smuggling. The training covered key areas including identification of smuggled artifacts, international cooperation, relevant legal frameworks, and practical enforcement techniques. The aim was to equip officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively identify, seize, and prevent the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage items, thereby contributing to the protection of cultural heritage in the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ecuador Customs Lab Upgraded With WCO Support

Ecuador Customs Lab Upgraded With WCO Support

The World Customs Organization held a workshop in Ecuador to support the modernization of its customs laboratory and enhance its capabilities in commodity classification, tax collection, and combating smuggling. The meeting focused on topics such as the application of the Harmonized System, analytical methodologies, database applications, and green customs. The workshop highlighted the crucial role of a modern customs laboratory in improving customs clearance efficiency, increasing tax revenue, protecting the environment, and promoting international trade. It underscored the importance of investing in laboratory infrastructure and training for sustainable development.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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