Central America Customs Modernized Under Global Trade Initiative

Central America Customs Modernized Under Global Trade Initiative

The WCO and SECO's GTFP project assists Central American countries in implementing the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), simplifying customs procedures, and promoting trade facilitation and economic growth. The project aims to streamline border processes, reduce transaction costs, and enhance the predictability and transparency of customs operations. By adopting the RKC standards, these countries can improve their competitiveness in the global market and attract foreign investment. This initiative contributes to regional integration and sustainable development by fostering a more efficient and effective trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Revises Trade Rules to Enhance WTO Pact Compliance

WCO Revises Trade Rules to Enhance WTO Pact Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has updated its 'Implementation Guidance on Trade Facilitation,' integrating the latest tools and member practices to enhance the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The new guidance covers areas such as transparency, customs-business cooperation, advance rulings, Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), border management, single window, customs brokers, transit, Globally Networked Customs, and National Trade Facilitation Committees. It provides more practical and comprehensive guidance for global trade facilitation, aiming to streamline processes and reduce trade costs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Enhances Global Trade Aiding Developing Nations Exports

WCO Enhances Global Trade Aiding Developing Nations Exports

The WCO promotes TFA implementation, simplifying customs procedures, reducing costs, and improving trade efficiency. The TFA has the potential to boost exports and economic growth in developing countries, necessitating strengthened international cooperation. By streamlining border procedures and reducing red tape, the TFA aims to make trade faster, cheaper, and more predictable. This will benefit businesses of all sizes, particularly SMEs, and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable global economy. Effective implementation requires capacity building and technical assistance for developing countries.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Tool Aids Jordan Customs in Modernization Efforts

WCO Tool Aids Jordan Customs in Modernization Efforts

At the invitation of Jordan Customs, the WCO utilized the Japan Fund to pilot a new risk management tool. The initiative aimed to assess Jordan Customs' capabilities in risk management, provide recommendations for improvement, and ultimately contribute to the modernization of Jordan Customs. This pilot project focused on leveraging WCO tools and best practices to enhance risk assessment and mitigation strategies within Jordanian customs operations. The goal was to strengthen border security and facilitate legitimate trade through improved risk management practices.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Releases Handbook for Customs Performance Excellence

WCO Releases Handbook for Customs Performance Excellence

The WCO has released a Customs Performance Assessment Handbook, providing tools such as assessment guidelines, KPI selection, and data management. It aims to improve the operational efficiency and service levels of customs administrations. The handbook offers a framework for measuring and enhancing performance across various customs functions, ultimately contributing to more effective border management and trade facilitation. It serves as a valuable resource for customs agencies seeking to optimize their processes and achieve strategic goals related to revenue collection, security, and compliance.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
New Fujiantimorleste Sea Route Expands Maritime Silk Road

New Fujiantimorleste Sea Route Expands Maritime Silk Road

A direct maritime route from Fujian to Timor-Leste has been officially launched, taking only 7 days from Quanzhou Port, significantly reducing transportation time and promoting economic and trade cooperation between China and Timor-Leste. Customs and border inspection provide efficient services to support the construction of Quanzhou as a key hub port for the Maritime Silk Road and promote 'Made in China' to Southeast Asia. This new route is expected to boost trade and strengthen ties between the two nations.

01/05/2026 Logistics
Read More
WCO JICA Boost Customs Training in Pacific Region

WCO JICA Boost Customs Training in Pacific Region

The WCO and JICA's Master Trainer Programme is being implemented in Pacific Island Countries to cultivate customs valuation and HS coding experts. This initiative aims to enhance customs capacity, ultimately facilitating trade development within the region. The program focuses on building sustainable expertise within the local customs administrations, enabling them to effectively implement international standards and best practices. By strengthening customs operations, the programme contributes to improved revenue collection, border security, and overall economic growth in the Pacific Island nations.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Study Highlights Pet Grooming Trends and Preferences

Study Highlights Pet Grooming Trends and Preferences

A report from Pet Home Data Research Institute reveals significant differences in grooming preferences between dogs and cats. Dog grooming is generally more affordable. Miniature poodles are groomed frequently, while border collies are the easiest to groom. Siberian huskies present the biggest grooming challenges. The report also highlights a growing trend towards luxury grooming services. This report uncovers various phenomena in the pet grooming market and offers valuable insights for pet owners, helping them understand the nuances of pet hygiene and care.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Flexport Aims to Modernize US Customs for Faster Trade

Flexport Aims to Modernize US Customs for Faster Trade

Flexport's Tom Gould joins the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Commercial Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) to advance customs modernization and address the disconnect between supply chains and customs operations. He will focus on system upgrades, data interoperability, and data science empowerment to improve clearance efficiency, reduce costs for businesses, and simplify global trade. This initiative aims to streamline processes, enhance communication, and leverage technology to create a more efficient and responsive customs environment, ultimately benefiting businesses involved in international commerce.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Zambia Botswana Enhance Trade Via Customs Data Link

Zambia Botswana Enhance Trade Via Customs Data Link

Zambia and Botswana, with support from the Sida-WCO TFCM project, have made significant progress in customs system interconnectivity and data exchange through a joint workshop. Both countries reached consensus on data standardization, technical testing, and a cooperative framework, laying the groundwork for initiating bilateral customs data exchange. This initiative aims to enhance customs clearance efficiency, strengthen border security, and promote regional trade integration. The collaboration represents a crucial step towards streamlined processes and improved trade relations between the two nations.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More