Americas Caribbean Customs Boost Postclearance Audit Expertise

Americas Caribbean Customs Boost Postclearance Audit Expertise

The World Customs Organization held a Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) workshop in the Americas and Caribbean region to enhance the auditing capabilities of customs administrations. The aim was to ensure compliance with laws and regulations and integrate international standards into customs operations. The workshop focused on the role of risk management in PCA, facilitating the exchange of experiences among customs administrations and the joint development of regional audit plans. This aims to improve compliance control levels and safeguard tax revenue. The future of PCA will increasingly rely on digitization and intelligent technologies.

Malta Customs Adopts Innovation to Strengthen Island Economy

Malta Customs Adopts Innovation to Strengthen Island Economy

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization visited Malta to discuss development opportunities for small island economies. Malta's Finance Minister highlighted the country's economic transformation, emphasizing the crucial role of customs. The Prime Minister presented the vision of a "Blockchain Island" and called for strengthened international cooperation. Malta Customs has achieved significant success in risk management and technology application, providing a valuable reference for customs cooperation among Mediterranean countries. The discussions focused on leveraging technology and collaboration to enhance trade facilitation and security in the unique context of a small island nation.

Global Customs Forum Sets Future Work Priorities

Global Customs Forum Sets Future Work Priorities

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held the inaugural meeting of the Customs Working Organization Forum (CWOF), bringing together global experts to discuss innovative customs working methods in the “new normal.” The meeting approved the CWOF's terms of reference and outlined future work directions, including the collection of case studies and the development of best practice guidelines. The aim is to build a more resilient and efficient customs working system, adapting to the evolving challenges of international trade and ensuring effective border management in a rapidly changing world.

WCO Reports Palestines Progress in Mercator Trade Program

WCO Reports Palestines Progress in Mercator Trade Program

A World Customs Organization (WCO) assessment reveals Palestine's active participation in the Mercator Programme, which supports the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and simplifies trade procedures. The Palestinian Customs Administration has benefited significantly in areas such as tariffs and risk management, maintaining close ties with the private sector and neighboring customs administrations. The assessment lays the groundwork for future tailored support, and the WCO will continue to provide assistance to promote Palestinian economic development and regional trade facilitation. This collaboration aims to further streamline customs processes and enhance trade efficiency.

Barbados Customs Adopts Skillsbased Hiring to Boost Efficiency

Barbados Customs Adopts Skillsbased Hiring to Boost Efficiency

Barbados Customs is reforming its human resource management, collaborating with the WCO and IMF to develop a skills directory and explore the establishment of an internal HR department. This initiative aims to modernize HR practices within the customs administration, aligning them with international standards and best practices. The focus on skills-driven development is expected to enhance the capabilities of customs officers and improve overall operational efficiency. This reform represents a significant step towards strengthening Barbados Customs' capacity to effectively manage its workforce and contribute to national economic development.

WCO Strengthens Bosnias Anticounterfeit Customs Efforts

WCO Strengthens Bosnias Anticounterfeit Customs Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) organized an online workshop for Bosnia and Herzegovina Customs to enhance their capacity in intellectual property rights protection and address the challenges posed by counterfeit and pirated goods during the pandemic. Rights holders shared anti-counterfeiting techniques and emphasized the use of risk management tools. The WCO continues to strengthen the capacity building of its member customs administrations to build a safe and reliable trading environment. This initiative aims to equip customs officers with the necessary skills to combat the illicit trade of counterfeit goods.

Gambia Revenue Authority Leads HR Modernization in West Africa

Gambia Revenue Authority Leads HR Modernization in West Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, is supporting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in implementing a competency-based human resource management model. A WCO expert team reviewed GRA's HR management tools and provided recommendations for improvement and an implementation plan. GRA is expected to become a benchmark in human resource management in the West and Central African region, offering valuable lessons for other countries. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency and effectiveness within the GRA through strategic human resource development.

Device Sheet And Customs Declaration Problem-solving

Device Sheet And Customs Declaration Problem-solving

In maritime logistics, the management of customs clearance and equipment lists is a key issue. In cases where the original customs clearance has been canceled and it is necessary to change the vessel name on the customs document, experts recommend updating the electronic port entry records with the shipping company and resubmitting the inspected equipment list. Ensuring that this series of operations is carried out promptly helps reduce the risk of logistics delays.

Comoros Adopts Harmonized System to Modernize Customs

Comoros Adopts Harmonized System to Modernize Customs

With the support of the African Development Bank, Comoros is actively promoting the application of the Harmonized System Convention to enhance customs management, facilitate trade, and integrate into the global trading system. This initiative focuses on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the Comorian tariff system and bolstering capacity building within the customs administration. The goal is to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and ultimately contribute to economic growth and development in Comoros.

Uganda Enhances Tax Efficiency with Datadriven Customs Reform

Uganda Enhances Tax Efficiency with Datadriven Customs Reform

With the assistance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) is actively exploring a data-driven approach to customs performance management. By optimizing data collection and analysis, establishing performance evaluation mechanisms, and implementing cultural change and capacity building, the URA aims to improve customs operational efficiency and optimize resource allocation. This initiative ultimately seeks to better serve Uganda's economic development. This reform practice provides valuable lessons for other developing countries.