Moldova Streamlines Aid Clearance Via WCO Trade Program

Moldova Streamlines Aid Clearance Via WCO Trade Program

The Swiss-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) continues to support the Moldovan Customs Service in enhancing the efficiency of clearing humanitarian aid supplies. This is achieved through stakeholder workshops and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The project aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders, streamline processes, and ensure the rapid delivery of relief goods, aligning with relevant provisions of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The initiative focuses on simplifying customs procedures related to humanitarian assistance entering Moldova.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bolivia Optimizes Trade with SECOWCO Goods Release Study

Bolivia Optimizes Trade with SECOWCO Goods Release Study

The SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) supported Bolivia in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to improve trade efficiency and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through expert guidance, questionnaire optimization, and pilot testing, the GTFP helped Bolivia identify bottlenecks in goods release and optimize operational procedures. This support contributes to trade facilitation and economic development by streamlining processes and improving efficiency within Bolivia's trade system. The TRS provides valuable insights for further improvements.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Introduces Online Customs Valuation Training for Global Trade

WCO Introduces Online Customs Valuation Training for Global Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a new online learning module on customs valuation on its CLiKC! platform. This module aims to enhance the understanding and application of the WTO Valuation Agreement among global trade professionals. The course covers the six valuation methods and provides performance support tools. Funded by the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, the English version is now available. This initiative will contribute to international trade development and improve customs valuation capabilities worldwide.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Philippines Customs Enhances Trade Via WCO Time Release Study

Philippines Customs Enhances Trade Via WCO Time Release Study

The Philippines has launched a National Time Release Study (TRS) in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to optimize import and export clearance processes for sea cargo. The study aims to identify bottlenecks, enhance efficiency, and provide evidence-based recommendations for reforms, ultimately boosting the Philippines' trade competitiveness and fulfilling its obligations under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The final report is expected by the end of 2025, laying the groundwork for sustainable trade facilitation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Armenia Enhances Trade Via Customs Time Release Study

Armenia Enhances Trade Via Customs Time Release Study

The WCO organized a TRS workshop in Armenia to enhance customs efficiency and promote trade facilitation. The workshop aimed to improve the effectiveness of Armenian customs procedures. Through the Time Release Study (TRS), bottlenecks were identified and action plans were developed to address them. This initiative aligns with WTO requirements for trade facilitation and contributes to streamlining cross-border trade processes. The TRS provides valuable insights for optimizing customs operations and reducing delays, ultimately benefiting businesses and consumers.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Customs Businesses Collaborate to Streamline Trade

Colombia Customs Businesses Collaborate to Streamline Trade

With the support of SECO-WCO GTFP, Colombian Customs hosted a trade facilitation forum. The forum focused on the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, shared experiences from Abu Dhabi's customs reform, and explored the impact of disruptive technologies on the future of customs. The goal was to support DIAN's customs transformation, creating an efficient, transparent, and modern customs system. Ultimately, this initiative aims to promote trade development in Colombia by streamlining processes and embracing innovation within the customs framework.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaraguas AEO Program Boosts Trade Efficiency Reduces Costs

Nicaraguas AEO Program Boosts Trade Efficiency Reduces Costs

Nicaragua is actively promoting the AEO program to improve customs clearance efficiency and reduce trade costs. Supported by the WCO-Norad project and aligned with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, the program certifies businesses to enjoy benefits like prioritized inspection and simplified documentation. Participation in the AEO program can lower operating costs, improve efficiency, and enhance credibility, allowing companies to stand out in the market. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes and foster economic growth within Nicaragua.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Smart Customs Tech Boosts Global Trade Efficiency WCOWTO Report

Smart Customs Tech Boosts Global Trade Efficiency WCOWTO Report

The joint WCO/WTO report delves into the application, best practices, and challenges of technologies like blockchain, IoT, and big data in customs. It emphasizes that customs administrations should actively embrace technological change, strengthen international cooperation, increase technology investment, and improve regulatory frameworks. The goal is to enhance trade facilitation and promote global economic development. The report highlights the need for customs to adapt to the evolving technological landscape to effectively manage cross-border trade and ensure security.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Namibia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Zambias ASYCUDA Expertise

Namibia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Zambias ASYCUDA Expertise

The Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) benchmarked the ASYCUDA World system at the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), learning best practices in electronic payments and valuation control. This aims to enhance NamRA's automation, effectively implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, and promote trade development. This collaboration exemplifies South-South cooperation and highlights the WCO's role in advancing global trade facilitation. NamRA seeks to improve its customs processes by adopting ZRA's successful strategies, ultimately contributing to increased efficiency and reduced trade costs.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

The WCO assisted Uganda in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, enhancing customs capabilities. This support focused on optimizing strategic planning, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and risk management. A multi-year development plan was also formulated to guide Uganda Customs in its modernization efforts, streamlining processes and improving efficiency in line with international standards. The collaboration aims to facilitate trade and boost economic growth in Uganda through enhanced customs procedures and improved border management.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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