Cuba Adopts WCO SAFE Framework to Boost Trade Security

Cuba Adopts WCO SAFE Framework to Boost Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its SAFE Framework and AEO program, supports Cuba in enhancing its trade security. A seminar held in Havana in 2015 marked a significant step for Cuba in embracing international standards and improving trade competitiveness. International cooperation is crucial for building a secure and efficient trading environment. This initiative aims to facilitate legitimate trade while strengthening border controls and combating illicit activities, contributing to Cuba's economic growth and integration into the global trading system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Capacity in West and Central Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Capacity in West and Central Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Côte d'Ivoire Customs in upgrading its human resources management system by introducing competency-based management and project cycle management methodologies. Through expert training, tool development, and action plan formulation, the initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of customs officials. This capacity building effort lays the foundation for customs modernization and serves as a valuable reference for other customs administrations. The project focuses on improving efficiency and effectiveness within the Ivorian customs service by equipping personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

At the invitation of the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE), the World Customs Organization (WCO) analyzed challenges in implementing the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and assisted in developing a five-year strategic plan. Through in-depth discussions with government and the private sector, the WCO provided guidance for Cambodian customs reform and modernization. The aim is to enhance Cambodia's competitiveness in global trade, promoting economic growth and sustainable development. The cooperation focuses on streamlining procedures and improving efficiency within the Cambodian customs system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Adds Spanish Arabic to Professional Standards for Global Customs

WCO Adds Spanish Arabic to Professional Standards for Global Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) announced the addition of Spanish and Arabic versions to its PICARD Professional Standards, aiming to enhance the professional capabilities of customs officers worldwide and facilitate international trade. The WCO expressed gratitude to the University of Costa Rica and the Saudi Customs for their translation support. The WCO will continue to promote the standards to support global customs capacity building initiatives. This expansion ensures wider accessibility and implementation of best practices in customs administration across diverse linguistic regions.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Summit Stresses Trade Resilience Cooperation

Asiapacific Customs Summit Stresses Trade Resilience Cooperation

The 25th WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Conference successfully concluded in Sydney, focusing on the theme of 'Customs Engaging Purposefully with Traditional and New Partners,' emphasizing international supply chain resilience. The conference reviewed the implementation of the regional strategic plan, approved a new strategic plan, endorsed a draft WCO resolution supporting enhanced Customs-industry resilience, and approved the establishment of a WCO Regional Training Center in Cambodia. This marks a new chapter for customs cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Qatar Customs Enhances Workforce Training for Global Edge

Qatar Customs Enhances Workforce Training for Global Edge

To enhance competitiveness, Qatar Customs invited the WCO to conduct a workshop focused on improving management capabilities and optimizing talent planning, development, and performance evaluation. Participants learned the importance of competency-based job descriptions through the WCO framework and recognized the crucial role of fostering a positive work environment. Moving forward, Qatar Customs will deepen its collaboration with the WCO to continuously improve its human resource management practices. The workshop aimed to equip managers with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective leadership and employee development.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Survey Aims to Fasttrack Tech Adoption

Global Customs Survey Aims to Fasttrack Tech Adoption

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a global survey to assess the application of disruptive technologies in customs, identify capacity-building needs, and promote the exchange of experiences. The survey results will update the 'WCO/WTO Study Report on Disruptive Technologies,' providing guidance for customs' digital transformation. The WCO encourages member administrations to actively participate and collectively shape the future of customs. This initiative aims to understand the impact of emerging technologies and help customs administrations leverage them effectively for improved efficiency and security.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Agencies Pledge Faster Disaster Relief Clearance

Global Customs Agencies Pledge Faster Disaster Relief Clearance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) pledged to expedite customs clearance for disaster relief goods at the World Humanitarian Summit, emphasizing communication, coordination, and protection. The WCO will gather experiences, provide training, and launch an assistance project in West Africa. The Secretary General called for international cooperation to build an efficient and reliable global humanitarian relief system, leveraging data analysis to improve rescue efficiency. The WCO aims to streamline processes and foster collaboration to ensure aid reaches those in need quickly and effectively during times of crisis.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic of Antigua and Barbuda Customs to enhance trade facilitation. Through observation and discussions, the WCO assessed the current state of PCA implementation and provided recommendations for improvement. Moving forward, the WCO will continue to collaborate, assisting Antigua and Barbuda Customs in refining risk management, data analysis, personnel training, and IT systems. This includes strengthening cooperation with the private sector to promote trade development. The goal is to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Antitrafficking Training in MENA to Protect Cultural Heritage

WCO Launches Antitrafficking Training in MENA to Protect Cultural Heritage

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with various partners, successfully conducted a training-of-trainers workshop for customs officers in the Middle East and North Africa region. This initiative aimed to enhance the capacity of customs personnel to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural property. The training covered cultural property identification, risk management, and international cooperation, emphasizing the importance of implementing relevant WCO resolutions. This training represents a significant step by the WCO in the field of cultural heritage protection and contributes to strengthening the defenses against cultural property crime.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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