Madagascar Shares Disaster Resilience Strategies Amid Crises

Madagascar Shares Disaster Resilience Strategies Amid Crises

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation and Columbia University's National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP), held a workshop in Madagascar to enhance the country's capacity to respond to pandemics and natural disasters. Through the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and practical exercises, Madagascar gained valuable lessons, providing insights for other developing countries facing challenges posed by climate change. The workshop aimed to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience through customs facilitation and international collaboration.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Tax Authority Bolsters Leadership with WCO Training

Colombia Tax Authority Bolsters Leadership with WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held its first virtual Leadership and Management Development (LMD) program at the request of the Colombian National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN). The program, which included modules on crisis management, effectively enhanced the leadership, teamwork, and organizational strategic capabilities of DIAN executives. The Director of DIAN highly praised the program and expressed anticipation for future collaboration. This initiative demonstrates the WCO's commitment to supporting its members in developing strong leadership within their customs administrations.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Philippines Boosts Customs Oversight with STCE Project

Philippines Boosts Customs Oversight with STCE Project

The WCO's STCE Project provided training support to the Philippine Customs on strategic goods control. Through online training, Philippine Customs officers enhanced their capabilities in strategic trade control, risk management, and the application of the Strategic Trade Atlas. The project strengthened cooperation between Philippine Customs and domestic agencies as well as international partners, contributing to national security and the international trade order. This initiative improved the effectiveness of customs operations in preventing the illicit trafficking of sensitive items and promoting responsible trade practices.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Advances Customs Reform with SECOWCO Aid Targets 2026 TRS

Moldova Advances Customs Reform with SECOWCO Aid Targets 2026 TRS

Moldova, with the support of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, held a virtual Time Release Study (TRS) workshop to assess clearance times and develop a national implementation roadmap. The goal is to complete the TRS report by January 2026, covering import and export processes, and to make it available to all stakeholders. The WCO pledged continued technical support to help Moldova improve trade facilitation and promote economic development. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to streamline border procedures.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Boosts Nicaraguas Trade and Security Through Customs Reform

WCO Boosts Nicaraguas Trade and Security Through Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Deputy Secretary General visited Nicaraguan Customs to support its modernization efforts. Nicaragua is enhancing its national competitiveness and integrating into the global trade system through initiatives like implementing the AEO program, introducing non-intrusive inspection technologies, and participating in Central American customs integration. Dialogue with the private sector is also crucial for building a mutually beneficial and trustworthy partnership. Nicaragua's case offers valuable lessons for other developing countries seeking to modernize their customs procedures and facilitate trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Bust Dismantles Major Counterfeit Goods Ring

Global Bust Dismantles Major Counterfeit Goods Ring

The World Customs Organization and the U.S. National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center jointly launched 'Operation Global Hoax,' uniting customs authorities from 42 countries. The operation resulted in the seizure of a substantial amount of pirated CDs and other counterfeit goods, valued at millions of dollars. This initiative aims to combat piracy conducted through postal and express courier channels, demonstrating the international community's commitment to protecting intellectual property. It also urges the public to resist piracy and support legitimate products.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Niger Customs Modernizes Trade Processes with WCO Backing

Niger Customs Modernizes Trade Processes with WCO Backing

Niger Customs, with WCO support, launched an IT strategy for modernization. It involved needs analysis and strategic planning, focusing on establishing an IT department, talent development, infrastructure upgrades, and process standardization. The strategy aims to improve clearance efficiency, reduce error rates, increase revenue, and enhance services. Challenges include funding, technology, and mindset shifts, requiring international assistance and talent cultivation. The successful implementation of this IT strategy is crucial for Niger Customs to meet its modernization goals and contribute to national development.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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GRIPS Announces 20252026 Scholarship Application Guidelines

GRIPS Announces 20252026 Scholarship Application Guidelines

This article provides a comprehensive guide for applicants to the Graduate Research Program at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) in Japan. It covers program selection, eligibility criteria, fee details, scholarship opportunities, application material preparation, timeline planning, interview preparation, and strategies for dealing with application results. The aim is to help applicants fully understand GRIPS' application process and requirements, thereby increasing their chances of successful admission. The guide offers practical advice and insights to navigate the application process effectively.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Air Cargo Adopts Electronic Security Declarations

Global Air Cargo Adopts Electronic Security Declarations

The Air Cargo Security Declaration (CSD) and its electronic version (e-CSD) aim to establish a globally harmonized air cargo security system. e-CSD enhances efficiency, security, and transparency by providing a traceable audit trail, meeting ICAO requirements, and adopting unified standards. Active responses from national regulators and future international cooperation will further promote its global standardization and widespread adoption, safeguarding global trade. This digital transformation promises a more secure and streamlined process for air freight, benefiting both businesses and consumers worldwide.

12/30/2025 Document Interpretation
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Moldova Boosts Customs Skills with WCO HS Workshop

Moldova Boosts Customs Skills with WCO HS Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Customs Service of Moldova jointly organized a national workshop on the Harmonized System (HS). The workshop aimed to enhance the capacity of Moldovan Customs in tariff classification. Covering HS coding rules, case studies, and international classification practices, the seminar sought to improve customs operational efficiency, facilitate international trade, and strengthen cooperation between Moldovan Customs and international organizations. The focus was on building expertise and ensuring accurate application of the HS for effective customs administration.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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