WCO Launches Enhanced Trade Efficiency Training Course

WCO Launches Enhanced Trade Efficiency Training Course

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched an upgraded Time Release Study (TRS) CLiKC! course, designed to help customs administrations measure cargo release times, optimize processes, and improve efficiency. The course covers all phases of the TRS methodology, emphasizing practical application through case studies, exercises, and role-playing to enhance participants' skills. This initiative supports trade facilitation and benefits the global economy. WCO members can access the course for free on the CLiKC! platform. It aims to enhance customs efficiency and reduce release times for goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases Handbook for Customs Performance Excellence

WCO Releases Handbook for Customs Performance Excellence

The WCO has released a Customs Performance Assessment Handbook, providing tools such as assessment guidelines, KPI selection, and data management. It aims to improve the operational efficiency and service levels of customs administrations. The handbook offers a framework for measuring and enhancing performance across various customs functions, ultimately contributing to more effective border management and trade facilitation. It serves as a valuable resource for customs agencies seeking to optimize their processes and achieve strategic goals related to revenue collection, security, and compliance.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Bahamas Customs Tariff Classification Skills

WCO Enhances Bahamas Customs Tariff Classification Skills

The World Customs Organization (WCO) continuously supports the Bahamas Customs and Excise Department (BCED) in enhancing its customs classification capabilities through technical assistance agreements. The WCO organized several Harmonized System (HS) training workshops to improve the professional skills of Bahamian customs officers and develop internal training capacity. These efforts help the Bahamas to classify goods more accurately and promote international trade development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Trade Growth for Landlocked Nations

WCO Backs Trade Growth for Landlocked Nations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) reaffirms its commitment to the Vienna Programme of Action (VPoA), assisting Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) in overcoming geographical constraints and achieving trade facilitation and economic transformation through simplified customs procedures, capacity building, and international cooperation. WCO's specific actions include developing standards, implementing projects, issuing guidelines, and establishing a pool of experts. These efforts aim to build an efficient, transparent, and secure global trade environment, jointly promoting the sustainable development of LLDCs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Strengthens Customs Controls with WCO Backing

Uzbekistan Strengthens Customs Controls with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), provided remote technical assistance to the State Customs Committee (SCC) of Uzbekistan, focusing on enhancing Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities. Through theoretical reviews, practical exercises, and case studies, the project significantly improved the auditing skills of Uzbek customs officers and provided recommendations for developing specific customs procedures. This initiative supports Uzbekistan's efforts to improve its trade facilitation level.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ghana Customs Officials Attend WCO Leadership Workshop

Ghana Customs Officials Attend WCO Leadership Workshop

The WCO collaborated with the Ghana Revenue Authority to conduct a leadership workshop aimed at enhancing customs management capabilities and promoting modernization. This initiative supports the ongoing efforts to strengthen customs operations in Ghana. The World Bank provides funding to support customs capacity building in Africa, contributing to improved trade facilitation and revenue collection. The workshop focused on developing leadership skills among customs officials, enabling them to effectively manage teams and implement modern customs practices. The ultimate goal is to create a more efficient and effective customs administration in Ghana.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO World Bank Boost Trade Facilitation Partnership

WCO World Bank Boost Trade Facilitation Partnership

A high-level meeting between the World Customs Organization and the World Bank Group aimed to deepen collaboration and jointly promote global trade facilitation. Both parties reviewed past achievements and discussed future cooperation directions, emphasizing autonomous approaches, coordinated border management, and customs-business partnerships. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening communication and collaboration, striving towards a future of enhanced trade facilitation. The meeting highlighted the importance of continued partnership in navigating the evolving landscape of international trade and ensuring efficient and secure global supply chains.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Ecuador Customs Lab Upgraded With WCO Support

Ecuador Customs Lab Upgraded With WCO Support

The World Customs Organization held a workshop in Ecuador to support the modernization of its customs laboratory and enhance its capabilities in commodity classification, tax collection, and combating smuggling. The meeting focused on topics such as the application of the Harmonized System, analytical methodologies, database applications, and green customs. The workshop highlighted the crucial role of a modern customs laboratory in improving customs clearance efficiency, increasing tax revenue, protecting the environment, and promoting international trade. It underscored the importance of investing in laboratory infrastructure and training for sustainable development.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Chief Stresses Leadership Learning Integration Integrity

WCO Chief Stresses Leadership Learning Integration Integrity

Secretary General of the World Customs Organization, Kunio Mikuriya, addressed graduates at the Postgraduate Institute of Management in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning for managers. He highlighted the need to integrate knowledge and apply expertise within a broader global context. Mikuriya stressed that integrity is crucial for achieving outstanding leadership, which is essential for guiding organizational and societal progress. He urged graduates to embrace lifelong learning and ethical practices to excel in their careers and contribute meaningfully to the world.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Committee Outlines Global Customs Modernization Strategy

WCO Committee Outlines Global Customs Modernization Strategy

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.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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