South Africa Boosts Border Tech Leadership with WCO Backing

South Africa Boosts Border Tech Leadership with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a leadership and management development workshop for the South African Revenue Service (SARS) executive team. The workshop aimed to enhance teamwork and individual leadership skills, enabling them to address key challenges and effectively implement trade facilitation reforms. Focusing on personal communication, team trust, and organizational strategic management, the workshop facilitated the development of tailored action plans. These plans support the SARS leadership model and the construction of 'Smart Borders,' ultimately striving for a more efficient and secure trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Belgian Customs College Enhance Francophone Africa Customs Training

WCO Belgian Customs College Enhance Francophone Africa Customs Training

This paper analyzes a capacity-building program for Francophone African customs officials, a collaboration between the Belgian Customs Academy and the World Customs Organization. The program, employing methods like curriculum supplementation, field visits, and virtual reality training, aims to enhance the professional skills of African customs officials and their ability to navigate complex trade environments. The article highlights the importance of regional cooperation, localized application, technological innovation, and evaluation mechanisms in capacity building. It also provides relevant recommendations for improving future programs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Africa Customs Modernizes with EUWCO Trade System Update

Africa Customs Modernizes with EUWCO Trade System Update

The EU-WCO Harmonized System (HS) Africa Programme aims to enhance customs management in Africa by standardizing commodity classification, facilitating regional trade, and supporting the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The inaugural meeting of the Steering Committee marks the substantial advancement of the project. All parties will collaborate to build a new landscape for African trade. The program seeks to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and promote economic growth across the continent through harmonized standards and improved efficiency.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Africas Ecommerce Giants Jumia Konga Takealot Compete

Africas Ecommerce Giants Jumia Konga Takealot Compete

The African e-commerce market holds immense potential, but choosing the right platform is crucial. This paper comparatively analyzes Jumia, Konga, and Takealot, three major players, highlighting their core differences in market coverage, localization adaptability, and logistics experience. We provide platform selection recommendations to help cross-border sellers accurately enter the market and seize the opportunities presented by the burgeoning African e-commerce landscape. This analysis aims to guide businesses in making informed decisions for successful expansion into Africa's digital marketplace.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly held a workshop in Uganda to enhance customs intelligence analysis capabilities and strengthen anti-smuggling efforts in East Africa. Customs officials from various East African countries collaborated to develop post-seizure analysis training materials. Experts from the WCO and Japan Customs provided guidance to help East African customs improve their intelligence-driven risk management and combat smuggling crimes. The workshop aimed to build capacity and foster regional cooperation in tackling cross-border illicit trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Guide to Secure International Transfers Via Dutch Bank FLORNL2ABEX

Guide to Secure International Transfers Via Dutch Bank FLORNL2ABEX

This article provides a detailed explanation of ABN AMRO Bank's (NEDERLANDSCHE BANK (DE) N.V.) SWIFT code, FLORNL2ABEX, highlighting its importance and correct usage. It addresses frequently asked questions and explores the future development of SWIFT, aiming to assist readers in conducting international money transfers securely and efficiently. The information helps users understand how to utilize the SWIFT code for seamless and reliable transactions involving ABN AMRO Bank.

09/03/2025 International Settlement
Read More
West Africa Security Project Emphasizes Gender Equality

West Africa Security Project Emphasizes Gender Equality

The West Africa Security Project (WASP) aims to enhance border security in West Africa by supporting partner countries in developing and implementing gender-sensitive and inclusive policies through its Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) component. Utilizing the WCO's GEOAT tool and training, the project assists customs administrations in comprehensively implementing GED across human resources, border operations, and stakeholder cooperation. This contributes significantly to security and sustainable development in the West African region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More