Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho and South Africa jointly released an end-to-end clearance time study report, aiming to optimize border management and improve cross-border trade efficiency. The study focuses on the Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge border posts, highlighting the importance of trade facilitation in unlocking the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Both countries are committed to implementing the report's recommendations, strengthening economic ties, and promoting regional economic development. The study underscores the critical role of efficient border procedures in fostering trade and growth within the region.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a high-level Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) seminar in Nigeria, empowering customs administrations from four West African countries. By raising awareness of gender mainstreaming, focusing on gender and security issues, and utilizing the GEOAT tool, the seminar assisted customs departments in developing and implementing GED action plans. The aim is to promote trade security, inclusive development, and address the challenges faced by women in cross-border trade. This initiative strengthens customs capacity to better serve all members of society.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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East Africa Enhances Customs Oversight with Audit Training Completion

East Africa Enhances Customs Oversight with Audit Training Completion

The WCO and JICA's joint "Master Trainer Programme" successfully concluded in East Africa, training 18 post-clearance audit experts and developing regional training materials. This initiative aims to enhance customs audit capabilities in East Africa, facilitating trade, combating smuggling, and safeguarding economic security. The project is expected to inject new momentum into regional development by strengthening customs administration and promoting efficient trade practices within the East African Community.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Senegal Customs Adopts HR Modernization Under West Africa Project

Senegal Customs Adopts HR Modernization Under West Africa Project

Funded by the Swedish government, the World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the modernization of human resources management in Senegalese Customs through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization Project. The project focused on building a competency-based human resources management system. Key tools such as job classifications, competency models, and job descriptions were developed to improve Senegalese Customs' management efficiency and international competitiveness. The initiative aims to strengthen the customs administration's capacity and contribute to regional economic development.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Enhances Customs Skills with Origin Rules Training

West Africa Enhances Customs Skills with Origin Rules Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly advancing the Rules of Origin 'Pool of Trainers' project in West Africa. A workshop held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, aimed to enhance the capacity of West African customs administrations in implementing rules of origin. The initiative focuses on developing experienced trainers and establishing a sustainable training system to facilitate trade and economic development within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Training Across West and Central Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Training Across West and Central Africa

The WCO-WACAM project aims to establish a regional pool of human resources experts for Customs administrations in West and Central Africa. Through capacity building, tool development, and follow-up support, the project enhances HR management within Customs departments, ultimately improving their efficiency and competitiveness. It emphasizes a competency-based HRM approach and develops tools such as job catalogs, competency frameworks, and job descriptions. These resources lay the foundation for Customs modernization and contribute to more effective and professional Customs operations in the region.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cargill Commits to Deforestationfree Traceable Cocoa in West Africa

Cargill Commits to Deforestationfree Traceable Cocoa in West Africa

Cargill launched the "Protect Our Planet" plan to achieve 100% traceability of cocoa beans and commit to ending deforestation in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. Covering multiple cocoa-producing regions, the plan aims to eliminate deforestation from the supply chain by 2030. Through digital mapping, barcode tracking, and other technologies, it enhances supply chain transparency and collaborates with smallholder farmers to promote the sustainable development of the cocoa industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West and Central Africa Push to Modernize Customs Systems

West and Central Africa Push to Modernize Customs Systems

The 7th Annual Meeting of Capacity Building Focal Points for West and Central Africa focused on customs reform and modernization strategies. Key challenges discussed included leadership, human resources, outsourcing responsibility repatriation, and trade facilitation. The meeting emphasized strengthening regional cooperation and WCO support to enhance customs management, promote regional economic development, and build an efficient and secure global trade system. The discussions aimed to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of customs administrations in the region, ultimately contributing to increased trade and economic growth.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malaysia and South Africa Bridging Distance Culture and Economy

Malaysia and South Africa Bridging Distance Culture and Economy

This paper explores the geographical distance, cultural differences, and economic development levels between Malaysia and South Africa. The two countries are approximately 9731 kilometers apart, requiring connecting flights. Culturally, Malaysia features a diverse ethnic mix, while South Africa is heavily influenced by European culture. Economically, Malaysia is a middle-income country, and South Africa is one of Africa's most developed nations. Despite limited historical ties, globalization presents significant potential for cooperation between the two countries.

02/06/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Major Shipping Firms Raise Rates Threatening Global Trade Costs

Major Shipping Firms Raise Rates Threatening Global Trade Costs

Several shipping companies have announced freight rate increases in late June, affecting routes to Europe, the Mediterranean, Africa, and South America. Companies like MSC, Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd, and CMA CGM are adjusting FAK rates and adding PSS surcharges. Businesses should plan ahead, optimize inventory, explore alternative solutions, and negotiate with customers to mitigate the impact of rising costs. This proactive approach is crucial for navigating the challenges posed by these freight rate adjustments and minimizing disruptions to the supply chain.

06/06/2025 Logistics
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