Global Customs Body Unites Against IP Crime

Global Customs Body Unites Against IP Crime

The World Customs Organization (WCO) strengthens global cooperation in combating counterfeit goods by signing Memoranda of Understanding with various industry associations. The collaboration focuses on promoting IPM tools, enhancing information exchange, and training customs officers. This aims to improve global intellectual property protection capabilities, build a bridge between customs and rights holders, and jointly address the increasingly complex challenges posed by counterfeit goods. The partnerships seek to streamline enforcement efforts and create a more secure global trade environment.

Cuba Strengthens Trade Facilitation in WTO Compliance Push

Cuba Strengthens Trade Facilitation in WTO Compliance Push

Cuban Customs is actively embracing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. It has significantly improved customs clearance efficiency through various measures, including risk management, information technology application, cooperation and mutual benefit, and personnel training, earning high praise from the business community. Their experience demonstrates that proactive planning and action are key to achieving trade facilitation, providing valuable lessons for other customs departments. This proactive approach highlights the benefits of early adoption and strategic implementation of trade facilitation measures.

Thailand Boosts Crossborder Trade with WCO Backing

Thailand Boosts Crossborder Trade with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Coordinated Border Management (CBM) workshop in Thailand to enhance the Thai Customs' cross-border trade management capabilities. The workshop focused on key areas such as cooperation between border agencies, Single Window implementation, and paperless trade. Participants also conducted a site visit to a border checkpoint to provide expert recommendations for upgrading Thailand Customs' CBM. This initiative aims to help Thailand create an efficient and convenient cross-border trade environment.

Americas Caribbean Pioneer Smart Customs Modernization

Americas Caribbean Pioneer Smart Customs Modernization

The Americas and Caribbean (AMS) region, with WCO support, is actively exploring the application of disruptive technologies like blockchain, IoT, and AI in customs. Through case studies and experience sharing, they are promoting the development of smart customs clearance, contributing to global trade facilitation. The establishment of the CLiKC! regional cooperation platform will further facilitate the sharing of technical expertise and best practices among member countries, fostering innovation and efficiency in customs operations across the region.

Kyrgyzstan Boosts Customs Oversight Via WCO Partnership

Kyrgyzstan Boosts Customs Oversight Via WCO Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a national post-clearance audit (PCA) workshop in Kyrgyzstan to enhance the country's customs audit capabilities. Funded by the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, WCO experts used interactive teaching and practical exercises to help participants master the theoretical knowledge and operational skills of PCA. The successful workshop will contribute to strengthening Kyrgyzstan's PCA system, promoting trade facilitation, and safeguarding national economic security. The training covered key aspects of PCA implementation and risk management.

Asiapacific Customs Adopts VR for Regional Training

Asiapacific Customs Adopts VR for Regional Training

The 20th Meeting of Heads of WCO Regional Training Centers in Asia Pacific was held in Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting focused on empowering and strengthening regional cooperation through VR technology to enhance customs capacity building and promote regional customs modernization. The importance of impact assessment in capacity building was emphasized. The meeting also explored the challenges and future development directions of customs training under the pandemic, aiming to build a safer and more efficient regional trade environment.

Philippines Kenya Simplify Customs to Boost Trade

Philippines Kenya Simplify Customs to Boost Trade

In 2010, the Philippines and Kenya acceded to the Revised Kyoto Convention, signifying their commitment to simplifying customs procedures and promoting international trade facilitation. The Convention aims to enhance trade efficiency, reduce costs, and foster global economic growth through streamlined processes, the application of information technology, risk management, and strengthened cooperation. The promotion and effective implementation of the Convention are crucial for building a more open and interconnected global trading system.

African Customs Agencies Boost Trade and Capacity Efforts

African Customs Agencies Boost Trade and Capacity Efforts

The 19th meeting of the Customs Management Council of the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) region focused on trade facilitation and capacity building. Emphasis was placed on the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Discussions covered regional cooperation, financial management, and the appointment of the WCO Director. The meeting aimed to promote African trade growth and regional economic integration through innovative customs procedures. Furthermore, the goal was to enhance customs efficiency and risk management capabilities within the ESA region.

Bosnia Strengthens Customs IP Protections Against Counterfeits

Bosnia Strengthens Customs IP Protections Against Counterfeits

A workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) protection was held in cooperation between the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Indirect Taxation Authority of Bosnia and Herzegovina (ITA BiH). The aim was to enhance the capacity of Bosnian customs officers in combating counterfeit goods. The workshop covered legal and regulatory learning, IPM platform application, promotion of public-private partnerships, and strengthening customs control capabilities. This is significant for improving the fight against counterfeiting in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider region.