Kudapa Airport is a historically significant medium-sized airport that, despite having well-developed infrastructure, has yet to establish commercial flights and is primarily used for non-commercial purposes. The airport's future requires market strategies to enhance its activity and contribute to local economic development.
Moldova, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization, organized a workshop to improve its national customs classification system. The aim was to enhance the commodity classification skills of customs officers, facilitate trade, and actively participate in the development of international trade rules. This initiative is crucial for Moldova's integration into the global trading system and enhancing its economic competitiveness. Other developing countries can learn from Moldova's experience by strengthening international cooperation and improving their own customs classification capabilities.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) continues to expand its pool of Customs Modernization Advisors (CMAs) and Mercator Programme Advisors (MPAs) by holding certification workshops, such as the one in Pretoria, South Africa. This initiative aims to assist members in implementing the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The workshop assessed participants, with 15 officials successfully completing the first step of certification. This effort will accelerate TFA implementation, improve customs efficiency, and promote global trade growth.
The Ramallah Conference in 2009 launched “Al Siyadeh,” the Palestinian Customs Modernization Plan. The international community supports the adoption of international standards by Palestinian Customs to promote economic development. This initiative aims to modernize customs procedures, enhance efficiency, and facilitate trade. International cooperation plays a vital role in providing technical assistance and financial support for the implementation of the plan, ultimately contributing to the development of a modern and effective customs administration in Palestine.
The 209th/210th sessions of the WCO Permanent Technical Committee focused on the future development of customs, discussing key issues such as e-commerce, information technology, performance measurement, and customs-business partnerships. The meetings aimed to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies and changes in the global trade landscape, building a more efficient, secure, and convenient global trading environment. Discussions centered on how customs administrations can leverage innovation and collaboration to streamline processes and enhance security in the face of evolving trade patterns.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Jordan Customs in enhancing its project management capabilities. Through workshops and other initiatives, the WCO assists in building a project management framework, adopting results-oriented management, and emphasizing the role of the Project Management Office (PMO). This action aims to help Jordan Customs more effectively implement strategic projects, improve efficiency and productivity, and ultimately achieve customs modernization. The focus is on building internal capacity to manage projects effectively and achieve strategic goals.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Oman Customs in developing a new strategic plan to facilitate its modernization reforms. Through workshops, both parties are focusing on results-oriented management, aiming to enhance trade facilitation, border security, and revenue efficiency. Oman Customs is committed to continuous reform, striving to create an efficient, secure, and transparent 21st-century customs administration, contributing significantly to the nation's economic development. The strategic plan is crucial for achieving these goals and aligning with international best practices.
A WCO assessment of Paraguayan Customs' human resources revealed challenges in capacity, planning, and training. The WCO recommended improvements to the HR model, strategic planning, training programs, performance management, and IT application. Specifically, the assessment highlighted the need for a more robust and comprehensive HR framework to support the efficient and effective operation of Paraguayan Customs. Addressing these issues is crucial for enhancing customs administration and facilitating international trade.
The EU-WCO cooperation project promotes customs modernization in Africa by optimizing the Harmonized System and rules of origin, and strengthening capacity building. This creates a more efficient trade environment, fostering intra-African trade and regional economic integration. The project has yielded significant results and will continue to support African customs development, contributing to the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Its focus on streamlining procedures and enhancing skills will be crucial for unlocking Africa's trade potential and fostering sustainable economic growth across the continent.
Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, Serbian Customs has made significant progress in standardization, transparency, cooperation, and automation, particularly in the AEO program, online application systems, and automation projects. These achievements have not only promoted Serbia's international trade but also injected new impetus into regional economic development. Serbia's reform experience provides valuable lessons for other developing countries. The advancements highlight the positive impact of targeted support and strategic implementation in streamlining customs procedures and fostering economic growth.
