Botswana Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

Botswana Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) workshop for the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) to enhance its revenue administration capabilities. This activity, part of the Swedish government-funded Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, covered topics like risk management and customs valuation. The workshop aims to assist Botswana in increasing tax revenue, combating smuggling, and promoting trade facilitation and sustainable development. It focuses on strengthening BURS's ability to effectively conduct PCA and improve overall customs control.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Botswana Enhances Border Efficiency with WCO Study at Mamuno

Botswana Enhances Border Efficiency with WCO Study at Mamuno

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Botswana in conducting a Time Release Study at the Mamuno border post to establish a One-Stop Border Post and enhance trade facilitation. Through data collection and analysis, bottlenecks are identified and processes optimized, injecting new vitality into Botswana's economic development. This initiative not only improves efficiency but also promotes international cooperation, setting a precedent for trade facilitation in Africa. The study aims to streamline border procedures and boost economic growth.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Train-the-Trainer workshop in Kenya, focusing on the Basel and Montreal Conventions. Through capacity building, the WCO aims to assist national customs administrations in improving compliance, combating illegal trade, and protecting the environment. The Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization (TFCM) Programme provides technical assistance to relevant customs agencies to address trade-related environmental issues and promote sustainable development. This initiative empowers customs officers to effectively enforce environmental regulations and contribute to global environmental protection efforts.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Iran Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked HS Code Reform

Iran Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked HS Code Reform

Iran, with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), held a national workshop focusing on the application and optimization of the Harmonized System (HS) Code. This initiative aims to enhance the professional skills of customs officials, optimize classification methods, and promote trade development. This will lead to faster customs clearance, lower trade costs, and clearer trade regulations for businesses, helping Iran play a greater role in the global trade arena.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Duty Refunds for Missing Goods in Global Trade

Guide to Duty Refunds for Missing Goods in Global Trade

The World Customs Organization recommends simplifying import duty and tax refund processes to prevent taxation on non-imported goods. This covers duty drawback and release of security, emphasizing timely declaration and sufficient proof. Members are urged to streamline procedures, make prompt decisions, and share information. This guide analyzes the recommendation, helping businesses understand the application process and reduce trade costs. The key is efficient documentation and adherence to established guidelines for successful claims and minimized financial burdens in international trade.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Streamlining Export Customs for Efficiency and Compliance

Streamlining Export Customs for Efficiency and Compliance

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the various elements of export customs declaration forms, aiming to help exporters streamline their processes and complete declarations efficiently. It elaborates on the standardization of customs declaration forms, the flexibility for autonomous adjustments by different countries, the innovative functions of "Free Disposal Zones," and the future trends of digital customs declaration. This article offers comprehensive guidance for exporters on navigating the customs declaration process.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos Harmonized Customs Terms Boost Global Trade Efficiency

Wcos Harmonized Customs Terms Boost Global Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization's (WCO) International Customs Terminology aims to establish unified customs terminology standards and facilitate international trade. It is recommended that all parties widely apply this interpretation, accurately cite it at the international level, and incorporate it into legislation and education. The WCO encourages all parties to provide timely feedback on implementation, jointly building a more prosperous global trade system. This standardization promotes clarity and efficiency in cross-border transactions, reducing ambiguity and fostering smoother international commerce.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Pact Streamlines Radioactive Material Customs Safety

Global Pact Streamlines Radioactive Material Customs Safety

This paper delves into the World Customs Organization's recommendation regarding the temporary admission of specialized equipment for vehicles transporting radioactive materials. It emphasizes treating such equipment as 'normal equipment' of the vehicle to streamline customs clearance. The study assesses the potential impact through data analysis and proposes implementation recommendations and risk control measures. The aim is to improve transportation efficiency, ensure safety, and promote global trade and security.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Streamlining Customs for Split Shipment Importsexports

Guide to Streamlining Customs for Split Shipment Importsexports

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the information document (T2-640) usage in temporary import/export of separated goods. It offers clear operational guidelines and risk prevention advice for different roles, including exporters, importers, re-exporters, and re-importers. The aim is to assist companies in efficiently and compliantly completing customs clearance procedures and improving international trade efficiency. It provides practical guidance to navigate the complexities of temporary import/export regulations.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Committee Advances Global Trade Facilitation Measures

WCO Committee Advances Global Trade Facilitation Measures

The latest meeting of the WCO Technical Committee focused on customs facilitation, emphasizing data standardization, risk management, SME support, cross-border e-commerce facilitation, and AEO mutual recognition. Businesses should strengthen compliance management, embrace digital transformation, and enhance international cooperation to adapt to the evolving trade landscape. The meeting highlighted the importance of streamlined processes and innovative solutions to promote efficient and secure international trade flows, ultimately contributing to global economic growth and development.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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