WCO JICA Team Up to Enhance African Trade Facilitation

WCO JICA Team Up to Enhance African Trade Facilitation

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are strengthening their collaboration to enhance trade facilitation in Africa. This initiative focuses on improving Africa's competitiveness in global value chains through the development of One-Stop Border Posts, capacity building, and the optimization of trade corridors. The WCO Secretary General also lectured scholarship students on strategic priorities, emphasizing information exchange, agreement implementation, and e-commerce regulation. These efforts aim to support sustainable economic development across the African continent.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Kenya Boost Trade Facilitation at WTO Conference

WCO Kenya Boost Trade Facilitation at WTO Conference

During the 10th WTO Ministerial Conference, the WCO and KRA jointly hosted a side event to discuss the implementation experiences and challenges of trade facilitation measures. The meeting highlighted the importance of political will, inter-agency collaboration, public-private partnerships, international cooperation, and standardized regulations, aiming to promote global trade development. The discussions focused on practical solutions and strategies to overcome obstacles in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, emphasizing the need for a collaborative and holistic approach to achieve its objectives.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Islands Enhance Customs Skills Via WCO Training Program

Pacific Islands Enhance Customs Skills Via WCO Training Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a Harmonized System (HS) expert development program for Pacific Island Countries, aiming to enhance customs capacity in the region by building a regional pool of experts. The first working group activity was held in October 2021, with the participation of customs administrations from six countries, including Fiji and Papua New Guinea. This initiative, a collaboration between the WCO and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), seeks to promote trade development and economic cooperation among Pacific Island Countries.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaragua Uses Time Release Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

Nicaragua Uses Time Release Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

Nicaragua, with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), is utilizing a Time Release Study (TRS) to identify and address bottlenecks in its cargo clearance process. Through on-site visits and action plan development, Nicaragua aims to reduce clearance times, enhance trade efficiency, improve competitiveness, and foster a better business environment. Facing challenges related to data accuracy, inter-agency coordination, and technical capacity, Nicaragua is actively working to overcome these obstacles and lay the foundation for future trade facilitation improvements.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to IATA Accreditation for Togos Cargo Market

Guide to IATA Accreditation for Togos Cargo Market

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the requirements for obtaining IATA freight agency accreditation in Togo. It covers qualification types, application types, application locations, language requirements, and essential application materials. Furthermore, it offers guidance on the application process, important considerations, and ongoing maintenance advice after successful accreditation. The aim is to assist companies in smoothly acquiring the necessary qualifications to enter the Togo freight market and operate successfully. This includes understanding the specific documentation and procedures needed for a successful application.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits with Maldives Peer Learning

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits with Maldives Peer Learning

Under the WCO Mercator Programme, the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme facilitated a virtual learning exchange between the Customs administrations of Uzbekistan and Maldives, focusing on post-clearance audit. Maldives Customs shared its experiences in organizational structure, legal framework, operational procedures, inter-agency coordination, and IT systems. This effectively enhanced Uzbekistan Customs' post-clearance audit capabilities and strengthened cooperation between the two Customs administrations. The exchange highlights the importance of knowledge sharing and collaboration in improving trade facilitation practices globally.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Taipei to Jieyang Air Freight Enhances Crossstrait Logistics

Taipei to Jieyang Air Freight Enhances Crossstrait Logistics

Willy International Enterprise Co., Ltd. specializes in air freight services from Taipei to Jieyang, focusing on cross-strait logistics. With an experienced Taiwanese team, they offer comprehensive services including import and export agency. Leveraging competitive pricing and high-quality service, they ensure the safe and efficient delivery of customer goods. They provide a dedicated Taiwan line, handling air cargo pallets with expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction. Their goal is to provide reliable and cost-effective logistics solutions for businesses operating between Taiwan and mainland China.

08/21/2025 Logistics
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Freight Forwarding Risks Secure Agent Authorization Guide

Freight Forwarding Risks Secure Agent Authorization Guide

This article delves into the core clauses of a consignee's power of attorney, emphasizing the importance of clearly defining the agent's identity, scope of authorization, carrier's disclaimer, and authorization validity. It also reminds consignees to conduct due diligence, clarify responsibilities, implement risk control measures, conduct periodic reviews, and strengthen communication and coordination to standardize the agency entrustment process, mitigate freight risks, and protect their own interests. The goal is to ensure a smoother and safer freight forwarding experience by addressing potential pitfalls in the authorization process.

09/28/2025 Document Interpretation
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Understanding Customs Fees for Smoother Import Clearance

Understanding Customs Fees for Smoother Import Clearance

This article provides a detailed analysis of various fees incurred during customs inspection, including inspection agency fees, trucking fees, scanning fees, loading and unloading fees, and unstuffing fees. It clarifies the common misconception that customs directly charges inspection fees. Furthermore, it offers practical tips on selecting an agent, understanding inspection methods, and verifying fee lists to help businesses better understand and control inspection costs, ensuring smooth customs clearance. The goal is to empower businesses to navigate the inspection process effectively and minimize unexpected expenses.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Boost East Africa Customs Valuation for Trade Growth

WCO JICA Boost East Africa Customs Valuation for Trade Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) joint project held an advanced Customs Valuation trainer workshop in East Africa. The aim was to cultivate experienced trainers, develop practical training materials, and enhance customs valuation capabilities in East Africa, thereby promoting trade facilitation. Through case studies, expert guidance, and skills sharing, the workshop improved the professional level of customs officials and customs brokers, contributing to regional economic development. The initiative underscores the importance of skilled personnel in ensuring fair and efficient trade practices.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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