WCO and Sida Collaborate to Modernize African Customs

WCO and Sida Collaborate to Modernize African Customs

The WCO, in partnership with Sida, launched the "Project to Promote Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization" aimed at enhancing customs capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa. The project optimizes the cross-border trade environment, fostering economic growth and poverty reduction. It focuses on strategic capacity building, operational efficiency improvements, promotion of trade facilitation measures, strengthened regional cooperation, and ensuring sustainable development. The initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures and reduce trade barriers, ultimately contributing to increased trade flows and economic prosperity in the region.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Boosted by Unique Customs Reference Codes

Global Trade Boosted by Unique Customs Reference Codes

The Unique Consignment Reference (UCR) serves as an "electronic staple" in international trade, aiming to connect various stages of trade, improve customs supervision efficiency, and facilitate trade. This article delves into the definition, objectives, characteristics, and implementation challenges of UCR, and explores its future development trends. It emphasizes the crucial role of UCR in customs modernization and provides recommendations for companies to address the implementation of UCR. The UCR's potential to streamline processes and enhance security in global trade is highlighted.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Program Boosts Cameroon Customs Efficiency

WCO Program Boosts Cameroon Customs Efficiency

The WCO held a workshop in Cameroon to enhance customs administration capabilities and support modernization. The workshop focused on key areas such as leadership, change management, and strategic planning. This initiative aims to benefit customs administrations globally by fostering effective leadership and building capacity for improved performance and efficiency in customs operations. The training provided participants with valuable tools and knowledge to navigate the challenges of modern customs management and contribute to the overall economic development of their respective countries.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Balkan Customs Labs Enhance Trade Efficiency Through Regional Cooperation

Balkan Customs Labs Enhance Trade Efficiency Through Regional Cooperation

A Balkan Regional Customs Laboratory Workshop was held in Serbia, promoted by the World Customs Organization. The meeting focused on laboratory modernization, compliance with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, ISO 17025 quality certification, and CLEN cooperation opportunities. The aim was to enhance the capabilities of regional customs laboratories, promote trade facilitation, and build a more efficient trading environment. The discussions centered around improving analytical techniques, sharing best practices, and fostering collaboration to streamline customs procedures and reduce trade barriers within the Balkan region.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Highway Bill Stalled by Political Gridlock Pandemic Concerns

US Highway Bill Stalled by Political Gridlock Pandemic Concerns

The US highway bill faces potential gridlock due to bipartisan disagreements, raising concerns in the freight industry about hindering infrastructure modernization. The pandemic's impact, including changing commuting patterns and declining gasoline tax revenues, has placed significant financial strain on state transportation departments. The bill's ultimate fate hinges on the election results and control of the Senate, potentially leading to major adjustments in future infrastructure investment directions. The outcome will have a significant impact on the nation's transportation network and economic growth.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Forum Advances Global Trade Efficiency and Security

WCO Forum Advances Global Trade Efficiency and Security

The 4th WCO Technology and Innovation Forum was held in Argentina, focusing on the role of technology in building efficient, secure, transparent, and resilient global supply chains. Participants shared best practices and discussed future borders, technology-enabled decision-making, and transparency in cross-border transactions. The forum emphasized that public-private partnerships and technological innovation are crucial for driving customs modernization. Key discussions revolved around leveraging technology to enhance security, streamline processes, and foster greater collaboration among stakeholders to facilitate legitimate trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Adopts Wcos Modernized Customs System to Enhance Trade

Burkina Faso Adopts Wcos Modernized Customs System to Enhance Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with funding from the Swedish government through the West Africa Customs Modernization Project (MADAO), held a capacity building workshop on the Harmonized System (HS) and Advance Ruling for Burkina Faso Customs. The workshop aimed to enhance the professional skills of Burkina Faso Customs officials, assist the country in establishing an efficient and transparent advance ruling system, improve trade facilitation, and attract foreign investment. This initiative supports Burkina Faso's efforts to modernize its customs procedures and promote economic growth.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Namibia Boosts Customs Skills to Improve Tax Revenue

Namibia Boosts Customs Skills to Improve Tax Revenue

With the support of the EU-WCO Harmonized System Programme for Africa, the Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) organized a national commodity classification workshop. This initiative aims to enhance the commodity classification skills of customs officers, address issues such as incorrect classification and false declarations, and close tax loopholes. By combining online learning with offline workshops, the program strengthens both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, building a comprehensive support system. This contributes to customs modernization, ultimately promoting economic prosperity in Namibia.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Port of New York and Jersey Expands with Infrastructure Upgrades

Port of New York and Jersey Expands with Infrastructure Upgrades

The Port of New York and New Jersey solidifies its position as the second busiest port in the United States, driven by significant container throughput and ongoing infrastructure upgrades. The 33-year lease renewal agreement with Maher Terminals signals a new phase of infrastructure improvements and operational optimization, further enhancing its competitiveness in the global trade network. This commitment to modernization ensures the port remains a vital trade hub, facilitating efficient movement of goods and contributing significantly to the regional and national economy.

01/26/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Key HS Codes and Export Tax Refunds for Global Trade

Key HS Codes and Export Tax Refunds for Global Trade

This article analyzes the characteristics, measurement units, and export tax rebate rates of goods under 12 categories of HS codes, with a particular emphasis on the significance of plant products intended for human consumption and animal feed. It provides traders with references for compliance and cost control.

08/08/2025 HS Code Query
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