WCO Upgrades Cargo System to Strengthen Trade Security

WCO Upgrades Cargo System to Strengthen Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released an upgraded version of its Cargo Targeting System (CTS) to enhance global trade security and facilitation. The new version features significant improvements in user interface, risk analysis capabilities, and data integration, and has been successfully deployed in several countries worldwide. This upgrade signifies the WCO's commitment to providing its members with more effective and sustainable cargo risk assessment and pre-shipment inspection capabilities to address increasingly complex global trade challenges.

WCO Addresses Pandemics Gender Disparity with Equality Plan

WCO Addresses Pandemics Gender Disparity with Equality Plan

A virtual working group meeting of the World Customs Organization discussed the impact of the pandemic on gender equality, focusing on the economy, gender-based violence, and working from home. Representatives shared their respective responses, emphasizing the crucial role of customs in supporting employee well-being and protecting public interests. The discussion also explored how data analysis can provide a more precise understanding and response to the gender-differentiated challenges posed by the pandemic. The meeting highlighted the need for targeted interventions and policies to mitigate these disparities.

Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts WCO Trade Facilitation Tool

Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts WCO Trade Facilitation Tool

The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) is collaborating with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to enhance trade facilitation capabilities through the WCO's Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM). This initiative aims to assess customs performance, optimize operations, and promote economic development. The GRA is focusing on measures such as the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program and Coordinated Border Management (CBM) to align with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and provide a model for other developing countries. The PMM will help identify areas for improvement and track progress towards achieving trade facilitation goals.

Honduras Adopts WCO Framework to Boost Ecommerce Trade

Honduras Adopts WCO Framework to Boost Ecommerce Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Honduras Customs in enhancing its cross-border e-commerce management capabilities. Through workshops and the WCO Cross-Border E-Commerce Framework of Standards, the initiative aims to optimize customs clearance processes, strengthen risk management, promote tax compliance, and create a more favorable environment for SMEs to participate in international trade. A work plan will be developed to build a framework of security, control, and facilitation, ultimately promoting the development of cross-border e-commerce in Honduras.

WCO Upgrades Gender Equality Tool for Customs Agencies

WCO Upgrades Gender Equality Tool for Customs Agencies

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released an updated Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT) to assist member customs and tax administrations in assessing the integration of gender equality and diversity within their internal policies, practices, and external relations. The 2023 update focuses on security, action, and user experience. It includes a new security and safety chapter, strengthens action-oriented templates, and optimizes user experience design. This aims to promote gender equality within the customs domain and improve organizational performance through a more inclusive and equitable environment.

WCO Advocates Gender Equality in Global Trade Reform

WCO Advocates Gender Equality in Global Trade Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released a Declaration on Gender Equality and Diversity, aiming to promote fairness and inclusion within customs systems. Eight key actions are outlined to eliminate discrimination, enhance efficiency, and foster sustainable development. These actions focus on creating a more equitable and representative workforce, ensuring equal opportunities, and promoting a culture of respect and understanding. The WCO hopes this declaration will serve as a catalyst for positive change within customs administrations worldwide, leading to a more inclusive and effective global trade environment.

WCO Scholarship Program Trains Future Customs Leaders Worldwide

WCO Scholarship Program Trains Future Customs Leaders Worldwide

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Scholarship Programme aims to cultivate future customs leaders, promote knowledge sharing, and enhance professional pride within the customs sector. The 85th iteration brought together participants from 15 countries worldwide. Through tailored training courses, field visits, and international collaboration, the program helps participants enhance their capabilities and contribute to the development of their respective customs administrations. The success of this program relies on the support of countries like Japan, China, and South Korea. It's a key initiative for global customs cooperation and development.

WCO Launches Stress Management Training for Customs Officers

WCO Launches Stress Management Training for Customs Officers

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched new training materials on employee wellbeing and stress management, aiming to empower customs executives and enhance resilience for both employees and the organization. The training covers six modules including wellbeing, designing organizational wellbeing programs, mental health, work-life balance, and stress management. The WCO will pilot the materials and plans to develop training for middle management and frontline staff to establish a culture of wellbeing within customs administrations.

WCO Enhances Asiapacific IP Protection with Certified Experts

WCO Enhances Asiapacific IP Protection with Certified Experts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has completed a Technical Operational Advisor (TOA) certification training program in Japan, focusing on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aims to enhance the region's customs capabilities in combating counterfeit and pirated goods. Following rigorous assessment and training, customs officials from various countries will become key WCO resources in the region, providing technical support to member customs administrations and collectively addressing the increasingly complex challenges of intellectual property infringement.

WCO Aids Namibia in Upgrading Customs System ASYCUDA

WCO Aids Namibia in Upgrading Customs System ASYCUDA

The World Customs Organization, through its 'Accelerated Trade Facilitation Programme,' is leveraging the experience of the Zambia Revenue Authority to enhance the Namibia Revenue Agency's application capabilities of the ASYCUDA World system. This initiative aims to promote trade facilitation and economic growth. The program emphasizes a 'Customs-to-Customs' cooperation model, facilitating knowledge transfer and practical site visits to improve the operational efficiency of the Namibia Revenue Agency.