Zambia Botswana Boost Trade with Customs Data Link

Zambia Botswana Boost Trade with Customs Data Link

With support from the Sida-WCO program, Zambia and Botswana are advancing customs system interconnectivity and data exchange. This initiative aims to improve customs clearance efficiency and promote regional integration. By linking their customs systems, both countries seek to streamline trade processes, reduce delays, and enhance transparency. The improved data exchange will also contribute to better risk management and security. This collaboration highlights the importance of regional cooperation in facilitating trade and fostering economic growth.

WCO WTO Release Tech Guide to Streamline Global Customs

WCO WTO Release Tech Guide to Streamline Global Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) jointly released the 'Study Report on Disruptive Technologies (2022),' focusing on the application of seven technologies, including blockchain, IoT, and AI, in the customs domain. The report analyzes technology trends, shares practical case studies, and provides strategic recommendations for customs' digital transformation. It aims to promote global trade facilitation and economic growth by leveraging these disruptive technologies to modernize customs procedures and enhance efficiency.

WCO JICA Boost Pacific Island Customs Training

WCO JICA Boost Pacific Island Customs Training

The WCO-JICA MTP project empowers Pacific Island customs administrations by developing local trainers and regional training materials to enhance customs capabilities. The third working group activity was held in Fiji, focusing on strengthening regional collaboration and ensuring sustainable capacity building within the customs administrations of the Pacific Island countries. The project aims to improve customs efficiency and effectiveness through tailored training programs and resources, ultimately contributing to economic growth and security in the region.

WCO Enhances Ecuadors Customs Valuation for Revenue Growth

WCO Enhances Ecuadors Customs Valuation for Revenue Growth

The WCO provided online training on customs valuation to Ecuadorian Customs, enhancing their valuation capabilities, promoting trade compliance, and safeguarding revenue collection. This initiative aimed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of customs valuation processes within Ecuador, ensuring fair and transparent trade practices. By strengthening the skills of customs officers in valuation techniques, the WCO training contributes to a more robust and reliable customs system, ultimately benefiting both the government and legitimate traders.

WCO Supports Sudan in Improving Customs Risk Management

WCO Supports Sudan in Improving Customs Risk Management

A WCO assessment of Sudan Customs' risk management practices aims to support the country's implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The report acknowledges progress while also identifying shortcomings and providing recommendations for improvement. This includes strengthening risk assessment methodologies, enhancing data analysis capabilities, and fostering better coordination among different customs units. The assessment seeks to optimize resource allocation and streamline customs procedures, ultimately contributing to increased trade efficiency and security for Sudan.

Jordan Faces Trade Hurdles Gains Under WTO Pact

Jordan Faces Trade Hurdles Gains Under WTO Pact

Jordan, under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, is leveraging the WCO Mercator Programme to advance customs pre-arrival rulings, border management, and other trade facilitation measures. Full implementation of the TFA is crucial for the Jordanian economy. The Mercator Programme supports Jordan in modernizing its customs procedures and aligning them with international standards, ultimately aiming to reduce trade costs and improve efficiency. This will enhance Jordan's competitiveness and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

WCO Launches Leadership Program for Palestinian Customs Officers

WCO Launches Leadership Program for Palestinian Customs Officers

The WCO conducted a leadership workshop for Palestinian Customs, aiming to enhance the skills of middle and senior managers and support customs modernization. The workshop received positive feedback from participants. The training focused on improving leadership capabilities within the customs administration to facilitate more effective operations and contribute to the overall modernization efforts of Palestinian Customs. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of customs procedures in Palestine.

Saudi Customs Wins National Award for Digital Innovation

Saudi Customs Wins National Award for Digital Innovation

Saudi Customs won the National E-Government Achievement Award for its "Customs Integration System," demonstrating its outstanding achievements in digital transformation. This system contributes to Saudi Arabia's economic development by improving customs clearance efficiency, strengthening supervision, optimizing service experience, and promoting trade facilitation. In the future, Saudi Customs will continue to explore new technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things to create a more efficient, convenient, and intelligent customs environment.

WCO Boosts Lesotho Customs Modernization with Audit Reform

WCO Boosts Lesotho Customs Modernization with Audit Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully completed a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic mission for the Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA). The mission aimed to assess the LRA's systems, techniques, and methodologies related to PCA and provide recommendations for improvement, enhancing the efficiency and transparency of its tax administration system. This initiative is part of the HMRC-WCO-UNCTAD collaboration project, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in promoting customs modernization in developing countries.

Ethiopia Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Meet Global Norms

Ethiopia Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Meet Global Norms

Ethiopia is accelerating the modernization of its tariff classification system to align with international standards, aiming to facilitate trade and promote economic growth. With support from the EU-WCO Africa HS Project, the Ethiopian Customs Commission is working to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen capacity building to adapt to the evolving global trade environment. This initiative seeks to simplify customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and enhance Ethiopia's competitiveness in the international market.