WCO Launches Global Program to Enhance Customs Efficiency

WCO Launches Global Program to Enhance Customs Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched the second round of its Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM), inviting members to participate in self-assessment. This initiative aims to help national customs administrations identify challenges, improve operations, and receive targeted capacity building assistance from the WCO. The PMM comprehensively evaluates customs performance in areas such as trade facilitation, revenue collection, and enforcement. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of customs worldwide, thereby fostering international trade development and contributing to a more secure and predictable global trading environment.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Nations Strengthen Customs to Spur Economic Growth

Pacific Nations Strengthen Customs to Spur Economic Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has launched the Master Training Program (MTP) to develop regional taxation experts in Pacific Island Countries. This initiative aims to enhance customs valuation and commodity classification capabilities, thereby addressing tax revenue leakages and promoting sustainable economic development. Focusing on the specific taxation challenges faced by these island nations, the program builds a pool of expert trainers and develops specialized training materials. This provides a solid foundation for regional customs capacity building and contributes to improved revenue collection.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Tajikistan Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

Tajikistan Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for Tajikistan Customs to assist the country in launching a new TRS cycle and improving cross-border trade efficiency. By reviewing the TRS methodology, demonstrating the TRS software, and sharing experiences, the workshop laid the foundation for Tajikistan Customs to optimize clearance procedures, identify bottlenecks, and reduce trade costs. This initiative supports the country's economic development and enhances its international competitiveness. The workshop aimed to improve customs efficiency through practical application of the TRS methodology.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Workshop Boosts Colombian Customs Efficiency

WCO Workshop Boosts Colombian Customs Efficiency

At the invitation of the Colombian Customs Authority, the World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held an online Leadership and Management Development (LMD) workshop. This workshop aimed to enhance the leadership, management skills, and teamwork abilities of Colombian customs officers. The goal was to improve work efficiency and quality, promote personal development, and lay the foundation for building a highly efficient and excellent team within the Colombian Customs. The workshop focused on practical skills and strategies to empower participants to lead effectively and contribute to the organization's overall success.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Shipping Alliances Face Scrutiny Over Port Delays Costs

Shipping Alliances Face Scrutiny Over Port Delays Costs

NCBFAA is calling for stricter scrutiny of large vessel sharing agreements, demanding that carriers meet prerequisites and provide contingency plans. This aims to ensure fairness within the industry and safeguard the rights of shippers. The organization believes that increased oversight will help mitigate potential negative impacts associated with these agreements, particularly concerning port congestion and the shifting of costs onto shippers. By requiring carriers to demonstrate their ability to handle disruptions and adhere to fair practices, the NCBFAA hopes to create a more stable and equitable environment for all stakeholders.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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IATA Calls for Brazil to Ease Santos Dumont Airport Limits

IATA Calls for Brazil to Ease Santos Dumont Airport Limits

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has expressed strong concerns regarding Brazil's decision to restrict operations at Rio de Janeiro's Santos Dumont Airport. IATA believes this move will harm passenger interests, impact the air transport chain, and negatively affect Rio de Janeiro's connectivity. Furthermore, it undermines legal certainty in Brazil. IATA urges the Brazilian government to reconsider the decision to avoid adverse effects on the Brazilian aviation industry and the economy. The organization emphasizes the importance of a stable and predictable regulatory environment for the sector's sustainable growth.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Bahamas in establishing a commodity classification advance ruling system to enhance trade facilitation. Through national workshops and technical assistance, the WCO assists the Bahamas Customs in its modernization efforts, establishing a pre-ruling system to resolve trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and promote economic development. While challenges exist in establishing the advance ruling system, the WCO's support and cooperation will help the Bahamas achieve its trade facilitation goals. This initiative aims to create a more predictable and efficient trade environment for businesses operating in the Bahamas.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Program Boosts Nigeria Customs Efficiency

WCO Program Boosts Nigeria Customs Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO)'s Leadership and Management Development (LMD) program continues to empower the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) by enhancing the leadership and management skills of its managers through workshops and other initiatives. The WCO plans to support the NCS in building a pool of trainers to expand the reach of the LMD program. Furthermore, the WCO aims to explore new areas of cooperation to further support the development of Nigerian Customs. This ongoing collaboration aims to strengthen NCS's capabilities and contribute to its overall effectiveness.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Upgrades HR Systems with WCO Aid

Gambia Revenue Authority Upgrades HR Systems with WCO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, supports the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in modernizing its Human Resource Management (HRM). GRA is pioneering a competency-based HRM approach in West and Central Africa, reviewing and refining key tools such as job catalogs and competency frameworks. This initiative aims to build a highly qualified tax workforce, improve operational efficiency and service delivery, and contribute significantly to national economic development. The focus is on creating a sustainable and effective HRM system within the GRA.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Dominican Republic Streamlines Customs for Humanitarian Aid

Dominican Republic Streamlines Customs for Humanitarian Aid

With support from the Japanese government and the World Customs Organization, the Dominican Republic Customs has developed a rapid clearance action plan for humanitarian aid. Through workshops, the initiative brings together various stakeholders to optimize the legal framework, streamline customs procedures, and enhance emergency response capabilities. The aim is to ensure the swift delivery of relief supplies in emergency situations, providing timely and effective assistance to affected populations. This initiative strengthens the Dominican Republic's ability to respond effectively to disasters and provide crucial support to those in need.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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