WCO Revises Trade Rules to Enhance WTO Pact Compliance

WCO Revises Trade Rules to Enhance WTO Pact Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has updated its 'Implementation Guidance on Trade Facilitation,' integrating the latest tools and member practices to enhance the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The new guidance covers areas such as transparency, customs-business cooperation, advance rulings, Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), border management, single window, customs brokers, transit, Globally Networked Customs, and National Trade Facilitation Committees. It provides more practical and comprehensive guidance for global trade facilitation, aiming to streamline processes and reduce trade costs.

China Customs Supports WCO in Global Trade Valuation Standards

China Customs Supports WCO in Global Trade Valuation Standards

The WCO Revenue Package aims to enhance customs revenue collection capabilities of member countries. China Customs actively participates in this initiative, providing valuation control case studies and sharing its experiences. China's customs valuation control system, characterized by comprehensive laws and regulations, advanced risk management techniques, a robust valuation database, and effective inter-departmental collaboration, offers valuable lessons for other nations. This participation underscores China's commitment to supporting global efforts in securing customs revenue and promoting best practices in valuation control.

MENA Region Boosts Customs Risk Management Via WCO Workshop

MENA Region Boosts Customs Risk Management Via WCO Workshop

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Workshop on Risk Assessment and Targeting, sponsored by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and hosted by Qatar Customs, was held in Doha. The workshop aimed to enhance the risk management capabilities of customs administrations in the region. Focusing on risk assessment and profiling, the event facilitated the exchange of experiences through case studies and national reports. The goal was to improve customs' ability to identify and manage risks, enabling them to address the challenges posed by increasingly complex global trade.

Liberia Upgrades Tax Agency HR Systems with WCO Assistance

Liberia Upgrades Tax Agency HR Systems with WCO Assistance

With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) is modernizing its Human Resource Management (HRM). This includes developing a job catalog and competency framework, as well as initiating capacity assessments and change management. Emerging as a model in West Africa, the LRA is progressing towards becoming a regional leader in HRM, offering valuable lessons for other developing nations. The modernization efforts aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the LRA's workforce.

East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly held a workshop in Uganda to enhance customs intelligence analysis capabilities and strengthen anti-smuggling efforts in East Africa. Customs officials from various East African countries collaborated to develop post-seizure analysis training materials. Experts from the WCO and Japan Customs provided guidance to help East African customs improve their intelligence-driven risk management and combat smuggling crimes. The workshop aimed to build capacity and foster regional cooperation in tackling cross-border illicit trade.

Sierra Leone Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

Sierra Leone Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

The WCO supported Sierra Leone in enhancing its customs efficiency by hosting a Time Release Study workshop. This initiative aimed to optimize clearance procedures and promote trade facilitation. The workshop focused on identifying bottlenecks and implementing strategies to improve the speed and predictability of customs processes. The project was funded by the UK's HMRC, demonstrating international collaboration in supporting Sierra Leone's efforts to streamline trade and boost economic growth through more efficient customs operations.

Philippines Boosts IP Protection in Customs Via WCO Workshop

Philippines Boosts IP Protection in Customs Via WCO Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop for Philippine Customs to enhance its capacity to combat counterfeit and pirated goods. The workshop focused on customs challenges under the pandemic, WCO's intellectual property protection tools, and counterfeit goods identification. Rights holders were invited to provide training. The workshop significantly improved the intellectual property protection awareness and counterfeit goods identification skills of Philippine Customs officials, promoting cooperation between customs and rights holders. This initiative aims to strengthen IP enforcement and protect legitimate trade in the Philippines.

WCO and Eswatini Revenue Authority Launch Training Evaluation Pilot

WCO and Eswatini Revenue Authority Launch Training Evaluation Pilot

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Eswatini Revenue Authority (ERA), launched a pilot training evaluation project to enhance customs officers' capabilities and optimize processes. This project utilizes a five-level evaluation model to comprehensively assess training effectiveness and support the HS-Africa Project and the Training of Trainers program. The project's findings will be shared at the WCO Capacity Building Committee meeting, contributing to global customs capacity building efforts. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness within customs administrations.

WCO Study Targets Trade Efficiency Through Customs Broker Reform

WCO Study Targets Trade Efficiency Through Customs Broker Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) published the 'Study Report on Customs Brokers' aiming to improve global customs broker standards. The report outlines the role of brokers in international supply chains, provides policy and organizational recommendations, offers a standardized model inventory, and highlights opportunities for cooperation between customs and brokers. Countries are encouraged to draw on the report to optimize broker management and promote trade facilitation.

Cte Divoire Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

Cte Divoire Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

The WCO conducted an assessment in Côte d'Ivoire on the progress of gender equality and diversity within customs administration. The assessment provided recommendations for improvement, aiming to create a work environment that promotes equal opportunities for all. The focus was on identifying areas where customs practices and policies could be enhanced to foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace, benefiting both employees and the effectiveness of customs operations. Ultimately, this initiative supports the WCO's commitment to promoting gender equality and diversity within its member organizations.