West Africa Customs Adopts Gender Equality to Boost Trade

West Africa Customs Adopts Gender Equality to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is implementing a Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) capacity-building project in West Africa. Through workshops, assessments, and action plans, the project aims to enhance the GED awareness and practical capabilities of customs administrations in countries like Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana. This initiative seeks to promote a more equitable, inclusive, and efficient customs system, ultimately facilitating trade and fostering economic development in the region. The project focuses on improving internal policies and practices within the customs administrations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits with Maldives Expertise

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits with Maldives Expertise

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, a delegation from Uzbekistan Customs visited the Maldives to study post-clearance audit. Through experience exchange and practical exercises, Uzbekistan learned about the Maldives' best practices in risk management and trader compliance. Adapting these practices to their own context, Uzbekistan developed reform plans to improve its national post-clearance audit system and promote trade facilitation. The visit focused on building capacity and understanding practical implementation of modern audit techniques for enhanced efficiency.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Customs Enhances Trade Compliance Through Improved Classification Training

Malawi Customs Enhances Trade Compliance Through Improved Classification Training

The Malawi Revenue Authority, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, conducted advanced Harmonized System training. This initiative aimed to enhance the commodity classification skills of customs officers, with a focus on tariff classification for pharmaceuticals, food products, and general-purpose parts. The goal was to improve the accuracy and consistency of commodity classification, ensuring correct tax collection and accurate trade data statistics. This contributes positively to trade facilitation and economic development in Malawi.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sri Lanka Customs Enhances Efficiency with WCO Audit Program

Sri Lanka Customs Enhances Efficiency with WCO Audit Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) workshop in Sri Lanka to enhance the Sri Lankan Customs' PCA capabilities, optimize the trade environment, and increase revenue collection. Through expert guidance and practical exercises, the workshop aimed to help Sri Lankan Customs develop more efficient PCA processes, improve clearance efficiency, enhance corporate compliance awareness, and promote trade development. It focused on building a robust and effective PCA system to ensure accurate revenue collection and streamlined trade procedures.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Laos Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Reform

Laos Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Reform

In 2017, the WCO conducted a tariff classification capacity building project in Laos to improve its classification skills, establish an advance ruling system, and implement HS 2017. Through workshops, tool applications, and expert guidance, the capacity of Lao Customs officials was enhanced, laying the foundation for trade facilitation. The experience of Chinese Customs also provided a reference for Laos. This initiative serves as a model of international cooperation in promoting trade facilitation and contributes to the economic development of Laos.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bolivia Expands Customs AEO Program with Trade Facilitation Support

Bolivia Expands Customs AEO Program with Trade Facilitation Support

Bolivian Customs, with WCO support, is upgrading its AEO program. This includes optimizing standards, expanding the program's scope, strengthening risk management and service provision, and promoting mutual recognition arrangements. The aim is to enhance trade facilitation, foster economic growth for businesses, and improve overall customs efficiency. The upgraded AEO program is expected to contribute significantly to Bolivia's trade competitiveness and its integration into the global trading system. The focus is on creating a more secure and predictable trade environment for authorized economic operators.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos HS Review Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

Wcos HS Review Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the HS Strategic Review study at the International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations (IFCBA) 30th Anniversary Conference. The review aims to optimize the global system for classifying goods in international trade, addressing changes in the trade environment and technological innovation. The IFCBA actively participated and provided feedback, which the WCO pledged to consider. The HS Strategic Review is expected to reduce compliance costs for businesses, improve customs clearance efficiency, promote trade facilitation, and enhance international competitiveness.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Aviation Industry Advances Pilot Competency Assessment for Safety

Aviation Industry Advances Pilot Competency Assessment for Safety

This paper explores the pilot competency assessment system, emphasizing its importance for safety, cost, and efficiency in aviation. It covers the content, methods, applications, and future development of such assessments, with a focus on IATA's guidance. The paper highlights how effective pilot selection and competency assessment contribute to enhanced aviation safety and operational excellence. Furthermore, it discusses the challenges and opportunities in refining these systems to meet the evolving demands of the aviation industry and ensure a highly skilled and competent pilot workforce.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Aviation Board Revamps Passenger Travel Standards

Global Aviation Board Revamps Passenger Travel Standards

IATA TSB is dedicated to optimizing passenger experience and operational efficiency. It promotes the digital transformation and sustainable development of the aviation industry by establishing industry standards and fostering collaboration. This includes initiatives focused on improving baggage handling, streamlining security processes, and enhancing the overall travel journey. By working with airlines, airports, and other stakeholders, TSB aims to create a more seamless and enjoyable experience for passengers while ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the global air transport system.

01/08/2026 Airlines
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Lowes Profit Rises on Inventory Optimization Strategy

Lowes Profit Rises on Inventory Optimization Strategy

Lowe's streamlined SKUs, optimized inventory with AI, and diversified suppliers to improve gross margins and reduce inventory. Inventory optimization has become a crucial factor for enhancing competitiveness in the retail industry. This approach allows for better forecasting, reduced waste, and improved responsiveness to customer demand. By implementing these strategies, retailers can achieve significant cost savings and improve overall profitability. Furthermore, a well-managed inventory system contributes to a more efficient supply chain and enhances customer satisfaction through improved product availability.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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