Moldova Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs System Upgrade

Moldova Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs System Upgrade

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, Moldovan Customs held a workshop on strategic planning and performance evaluation to enhance strategic alignment, governance, and accountability. Participants utilized tools like PESTLE and SWOT analysis to develop strategic objectives and KPIs. The WCO will continue to provide support, assisting Moldovan Customs in becoming a new engine for efficient trade. The workshop aimed to improve customs operations through better planning and performance measurement, ultimately contributing to increased trade facilitation and economic growth in Moldova.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Malta Customs Adopts Innovation to Strengthen Island Economy

Malta Customs Adopts Innovation to Strengthen Island Economy

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization visited Malta to discuss development opportunities for small island economies. Malta's Finance Minister highlighted the country's economic transformation, emphasizing the crucial role of customs. The Prime Minister presented the vision of a "Blockchain Island" and called for strengthened international cooperation. Malta Customs has achieved significant success in risk management and technology application, providing a valuable reference for customs cooperation among Mediterranean countries. The discussions focused on leveraging technology and collaboration to enhance trade facilitation and security in the unique context of a small island nation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Boosts Customs Efficiency with Japanbacked HS Code Training

Malawi Boosts Customs Efficiency with Japanbacked HS Code Training

Sponsored by Japan Customs and organized by the World Customs Organization, a national HS workshop was held in Malawi to enhance the commodity classification skills of Malawian customs officers. The aim was to improve tax revenue efficiency and promote international trade development. The workshop focused on core HS principles and practical operations, emphasizing the importance of capacity building for a sound tax system and exploring the strategic significance of improving HS coding capabilities. This initiative underscores the commitment to strengthening customs operations through targeted training and international collaboration.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Philippines Streamlines Cargo Clearance to Boost Trade Efficiency

Philippines Streamlines Cargo Clearance to Boost Trade Efficiency

The Philippines will launch a National Time Release Study (TRS) in 2025 to enhance the efficiency of customs clearance for maritime imports and exports. Spanning two weeks, the study will focus on the Manila International Container Port and has received support from the World Customs Organization and HM Revenue and Customs of the UK. The final report is expected to be completed by the end of the year, providing a basis for subsequent reforms aimed at promoting trade facilitation and enhancing national competitiveness.

07/28/2025 Logistics
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Customs Agencies Tackle Global Waste Trade Crisis

Customs Agencies Tackle Global Waste Trade Crisis

A World Customs Organization report highlights the serious global waste trade situation, emphasizing the crucial role of customs in border control. The report analyzes the regional characteristics of waste trade and major illegal trade targets. It proposes strengthening risk management, increasing resource investment, enhancing international cooperation, and applying technology to address the issue. The aim is to build a new global waste governance framework. The report underscores the importance of effective customs procedures to combat illegal waste shipments and protect the environment.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Crossborder Ecommerce Faces Customs Valuation Challenges

Crossborder Ecommerce Faces Customs Valuation Challenges

The World Customs Organization issued Advisory Opinion 23.1, clarifying that low-price transactions of flash sale goods can be used as a basis for customs valuation, provided they comply with the Valuation Agreement and the transaction is genuine and valid. This opinion guides cross-border e-commerce enterprises in compliant declaration, reduces trade risks, and provides customs authorities with scientific valuation methods, promoting the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce. It emphasizes adherence to existing valuation principles while acknowledging the unique characteristics of flash sales.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Chief Praises Uzbekistans Growing Trade Prospects

WCO Chief Praises Uzbekistans Growing Trade Prospects

In 2010, the WCO Secretary-General visited Uzbekistan, meeting with the President to focus on regional customs cooperation and economic development. As a double-landlocked country, Uzbekistan faces unique challenges but remains committed to trade liberalization, emphasizing the importance of the private sector and education. The WCO pledged its support, highlighting the role of customs in facilitating trade. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to jointly promote regional economic development. The visit underscored the importance of customs cooperation in fostering economic growth in Central Asia.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Customs Alliance Expands Regional Expertise for Sustainable Growth

Pacific Customs Alliance Expands Regional Expertise for Sustainable Growth

WCO, in collaboration with JICA and Japan Customs, is supporting Pacific Island Countries in building a pool of customs experts through training programs. This initiative aims to enhance their customs enforcement capabilities and promote trade facilitation. The project focuses on strengthening regional cooperation and improving customs administration in the Pacific region, ultimately contributing to economic growth and security.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Operation DEMETER V Cracks Down on Illegal Environmental Trade

Global Operation DEMETER V Cracks Down on Illegal Environmental Trade

Operation DEMETER V is a global customs enforcement operation targeting the illegal cross-border movement of environmentally sensitive commodities. Initiated by the World Customs Organization, the operation focuses on the illicit trafficking of hazardous waste (particularly plastic waste) and ozone-depleting substances. Through enhanced international cooperation and information exchange, Operation DEMETER V has successfully seized significant quantities of illegal waste and ozone-depleting substances, effectively upholding the enforcement of international environmental conventions.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Essential Tools for Streamlining Customs Compliance

Essential Tools for Streamlining Customs Compliance

The article discusses the crucial role of customs in tariff classification, valuation, and origin certification, emphasizing the importance of establishing a modern customs system. By utilizing WCO tools and technologies, customs can more effectively meet national and business needs, encourage voluntary compliance among enterprises, and enhance the efficiency of international trade.

08/08/2025 Customs Knowledge
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