Businesses Adapt to Trade Policy Shifts Tariff Challenges

Businesses Adapt to Trade Policy Shifts Tariff Challenges

Foley & Lardner partner Greg Husisian discusses key trade and tariff issues, advising companies to strengthen compliance and diversify their supply chains to navigate the complex international trade environment. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and adapting to evolving tariff policies and proactively mitigating risks related to trade fraud. Businesses should prioritize robust compliance programs and explore alternative sourcing options to minimize disruption and maintain competitiveness in the global market. Staying informed and agile is crucial for success in the face of increasing international trade complexity.

WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is upgrading the PICARD Professional Standards (PS) to adapt to the evolving global trade landscape. The updated standards will encompass key areas such as public-private sector cooperation, customs and tax function integration, and coordinated border management. It will also address emerging trends, security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. The WCO invites stakeholders to participate in capacity building initiatives to jointly promote global customs development. This collaborative effort aims to enhance customs efficiency and effectiveness worldwide.

Malawi Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

Malawi Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

In July 2018, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Blantyre to support Malawi in enhancing trade facilitation by implementing the advance ruling system and optimizing its customs classification system. Through expert training, current state analysis, and action plan development, Malawi aims to improve its legal framework, establish an advance ruling body, and strengthen personnel training. These efforts are designed to increase customs clearance efficiency, enhance trade certainty, and improve the business environment, ultimately promoting economic development in Malawi.

Burkina Faso Adopts Advance Ruling to Boost Trade Efficiency

Burkina Faso Adopts Advance Ruling to Boost Trade Efficiency

Burkina Faso Customs, with the support of the WCO, is actively promoting the establishment of an advance ruling mechanism to improve trade efficiency, reduce trade costs, and enhance trade transparency. Through capacity-building workshops, customs officers have gained a deeper understanding of the Harmonized System and advance ruling regulations. The implementation of the advance ruling mechanism will have a positive impact on the trade development of Burkina Faso. This initiative aims to streamline customs procedures and provide greater certainty for traders.

WCO Backs Ethiopias Customs Modernization with Talent Assessment

WCO Backs Ethiopias Customs Modernization with Talent Assessment

WCO assists Ethiopian Customs in improving human resource management, promoting modernization. Experts recommend optimizing recruitment, training, and performance evaluation, providing a reference for developing countries. The focus is on building a skilled and motivated workforce to support customs reforms and enhance operational efficiency. This initiative aims to strengthen Ethiopia's capacity to effectively manage its borders and facilitate trade, ultimately contributing to economic growth and regional integration. The recommendations offer practical guidance for other developing countries seeking to modernize their customs administrations.

Niger Customs Upgrades HR Systems to Boost Border Efficiency

Niger Customs Upgrades HR Systems to Boost Border Efficiency

With the support of the WCO-WACAM project, Niger Customs launched a human resource management modernization project. This initiative aims to raise awareness and garner broad support for HR modernization both within and outside the customs administration through change management and communication activities. By diagnosing challenges, building a competency framework, and conducting pilot programs, Niger Customs is committed to building an efficient, professional, and dynamic workforce. This workforce will contribute to the country's economic development and ensure its security.

WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

At the request of the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia, the World Customs Organization (WCO) undertook a support mission to Cambodia. The mission aimed to assess the implementation gaps of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and assist in developing a five-year strategic plan. Through gap analysis and strategic planning, the WCO will help Cambodia improve its trade facilitation level and promote economic development. The support focuses on identifying areas needing improvement and providing guidance for a comprehensive strategic roadmap to enhance trade efficiency.

WCO Introduces Elearning to Simplify Global Customs Procedures

WCO Introduces Elearning to Simplify Global Customs Procedures

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a new e-learning course on Single Window, designed to equip customs officials and trade practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed for a Single Window environment. The course covers concepts, benefits, implementation methods, technical components, risk management, data security, business models, performance management, and public-private partnerships. Available for free on the WCO CLiKC! platform, the course aims to facilitate global trade.

Iran Enhances Customs Via WCO Japanbacked AEO Program

Iran Enhances Customs Via WCO Japanbacked AEO Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the CCF Japan, supported Iranian Customs in hosting a national workshop on Customs Procedure Informatization and the AEO Program. The workshop aimed to enhance customs clearance efficiency and strengthen border control through information technology. It also focused on upgrading the AEO program to promote trade facilitation and improve Iran's competitiveness in global trade. The initiative underscores the importance of digital transformation and international cooperation in streamlining customs processes and fostering economic growth.

WCO Aids Liberia in Boosting Customs Revenue

WCO Aids Liberia in Boosting Customs Revenue

At the request of the Liberia Revenue Authority, the World Customs Organization sent an expert mission to Liberia to strengthen its customs valuation and classification infrastructure. Through assessments, workshops, and recommendations, the mission assisted Liberia in implementing relevant World Trade Organization agreements and developing a strategy to terminate private sector inspection contracts. The goal was to enhance revenue collection, promote trade facilitation, and foster economic development within the country. The mission's work focused on building sustainable capacity and ensuring compliance with international standards.