Belarus Boosts Crossborder Green Trade Initiatives

Belarus Boosts Crossborder Green Trade Initiatives

Belarusian Customs is actively engaged in cross-border environmental cooperation. Through liaison officers, optimized procedures, and data coordination, they are striving to balance trade facilitation with environmental protection. This involves addressing challenges related to cross-border movement of goods and materials while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The efforts aim to streamline customs processes, reduce delays, and promote sustainable trade practices. Looking forward, Belarusian Customs aims to further enhance its role in facilitating trade while safeguarding the environment, contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Certification Boosts Trade in Francophone Africa

WCO Certification Boosts Trade in Francophone Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Technical and Operational Advisors (TOA) accreditation program, aims to cultivate customs experts proficient in commodity classification, rules of origin, and valuation. This initiative enhances customs capacity in French-speaking African countries, reduces trade costs and friction, and creates more market opportunities for businesses. By fostering expertise and efficiency, the program contributes to a future where trade facilitation is embraced, benefiting both governments and the private sector. The ultimate goal is to streamline processes and promote economic growth.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos SAFE Framework Enhances Global Trade Security

Wcos SAFE Framework Enhances Global Trade Security

The 28th SAFE Working Group (SWG) meeting focused on upgrading and monitoring the implementation of the SAFE Framework. Discussions included the implementation monitoring questionnaire, the WCO Data Strategy, the Green Customs Initiative, and capacity building activities. The revised SWG work plan was approved. The meeting also deepened cooperation between customs and sectors such as aviation and ports, injecting new momentum into the future development of global trade. The discussions aimed to enhance efficiency and security in international trade through improved customs procedures and collaboration.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global AEO Program Enhances Secure Efficient Trade

Global AEO Program Enhances Secure Efficient Trade

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the World Customs Organization's (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards, focusing on the concept, objectives, and significance of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. It outlines the global development of AEO programs, emphasizing the importance of customs compliance programs and Mutual Recognition Arrangements/Agreements (MRAs). The paper also explores future trends in AEO programs. The aim is to offer readers a comprehensive understanding of the AEO initiative and its implications for international trade security and customs compliance.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde WCO Launch Trade Efficiency Study

Cape Verde WCO Launch Trade Efficiency Study

With support from the WCO-WACAM project, Cape Verde Customs is preparing its first Time Release Study (TRS) to identify bottlenecks, optimize customs procedures, and enhance trade competitiveness. Through WCO expert workshops and public-private partnership action plans, Cape Verde aims to fulfill the Trade Facilitation Agreement, establishing an efficient and transparent customs system to promote economic development. The TRS will provide valuable data for informed decision-making and targeted reforms, ultimately streamlining the flow of goods and boosting Cape Verde's participation in global trade.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaragua Launches AEO Trade Security Pilot with NORAD Support

Nicaragua Launches AEO Trade Security Pilot with NORAD Support

With support from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) and the World Customs Organization (WCO), Nicaraguan Customs launched an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) pilot program. This initiative aims to optimize customs procedures and enhance trade security and efficiency through capacity building and Time Release Study (TRS). The program seeks to streamline the flow of goods, reduce release times, and contribute to Nicaragua's economic development by fostering a more secure and efficient trading environment. Ultimately, the AEO program is expected to boost international trade and investment.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Revised Kyoto Convention Hits 113 Members Boosts Global Trade

Revised Kyoto Convention Hits 113 Members Boosts Global Trade

The Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) now has 113 contracting parties, with the Republic of Congo being the latest addition. This convention, recognized as the blueprint for modern customs by the international customs community, aims to simplify and harmonize customs procedures, thereby facilitating global trade. It emphasizes the application of information technology, risk management, enhanced cooperation with the trade community, and the establishment of accessible appeal systems. The WCO encourages more members to join and implement the convention's provisions to build a more competitive global economy.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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