WCO Promotes Gender Equality in Global Customs Operations

WCO Promotes Gender Equality in Global Customs Operations

The WCO Gender Equality Conference highlighted progress in gender equality within customs administrations, sharing best practices and urging member collaboration to build a fair and inclusive environment. The conference emphasized the importance of mainstreaming gender perspectives in customs policies and operations. Participants discussed strategies for promoting women's leadership and addressing gender-based discrimination. The call for collaborative efforts aims to foster a global customs community that values diversity and ensures equal opportunities for all, ultimately contributing to more effective and equitable trade facilitation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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MENA Adopts Digital Tech for Smarter Border Control

MENA Adopts Digital Tech for Smarter Border Control

The WCO's SMART Borders workshop in Riyadh, focusing on the MENA region, highlighted the application of cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain in customs processes. Through WCO best practice sharing and guidance from ZATCA, participants explored how to leverage technology to enhance border management efficiency, injecting new momentum into the MENA region's digital transformation. The event fostered discussions on optimizing customs procedures and improving security through innovative digital solutions, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and secure trade environment within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Experts Address Ecommerce Valuation Hurdles

Global Customs Experts Address Ecommerce Valuation Hurdles

The World Customs Organization's inaugural E-commerce and Customs Valuation Symposium addressed the challenges of valuing cross-border e-commerce goods. Representatives from international organizations, customs administrations, and businesses discussed data acquisition, valuation methodologies, compliance costs, and fraud risks. The symposium emphasized international cooperation, technological innovation, and process simplification to foster a fair, transparent, and efficient cross-border e-commerce environment. The aim is to promote global trade development by addressing valuation complexities and ensuring accurate revenue collection while facilitating legitimate trade flows.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sri Lanka Customs Enhances Efficiency with WCO Audit Program

Sri Lanka Customs Enhances Efficiency with WCO Audit Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) workshop in Sri Lanka to enhance the Sri Lankan Customs' PCA capabilities, optimize the trade environment, and increase revenue collection. Through expert guidance and practical exercises, the workshop aimed to help Sri Lankan Customs develop more efficient PCA processes, improve clearance efficiency, enhance corporate compliance awareness, and promote trade development. It focused on building a robust and effective PCA system to ensure accurate revenue collection and streamlined trade procedures.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

Gambia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to enhance trade facilitation. Through workshops and technical assistance, the WCO helped Gambia identify bottlenecks in cargo clearance, optimize customs procedures, and align with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The ultimate goal is to improve the business environment and promote sustainable economic development in Gambia. The TRS aims to streamline processes and reduce the time and cost associated with importing and exporting goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Framework Enhances Customs Efficiency in Burundi

WCO Framework Enhances Customs Efficiency in Burundi

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Burundi Customs in building a national risk management framework to improve clearance efficiency and promote trade facilitation. By developing risk management policies, strategies, and action plans, and aligning them with regional frameworks, Burundi will be better positioned to implement its AEO program and fulfill its commitments under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to contribute to Burundi's sustainable economic development by enhancing customs operations and fostering a more predictable and efficient trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Fiji Customs Boosts Efficiency with WCO Training Program

Fiji Customs Boosts Efficiency with WCO Training Program

WCO talent tools assist Fiji Customs in reforming its human resources. Recommendations include optimizing recruitment, training, performance management, compensation, and communication. The goal is to build a highly efficient customs team, ultimately promoting economic development. This involves attracting and retaining skilled personnel, providing continuous professional development, and fostering a positive work environment. By implementing these strategies, Fiji Customs can enhance its operational effectiveness and contribute to national prosperity. The focus is on creating a sustainable and capable workforce within the customs administration.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bolivia Expands Customs AEO Program with Trade Facilitation Support

Bolivia Expands Customs AEO Program with Trade Facilitation Support

Bolivian Customs, with WCO support, is upgrading its AEO program. This includes optimizing standards, expanding the program's scope, strengthening risk management and service provision, and promoting mutual recognition arrangements. The aim is to enhance trade facilitation, foster economic growth for businesses, and improve overall customs efficiency. The upgraded AEO program is expected to contribute significantly to Bolivia's trade competitiveness and its integration into the global trading system. The focus is on creating a more secure and predictable trade environment for authorized economic operators.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos HS Review Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

Wcos HS Review Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the HS Strategic Review study at the International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations (IFCBA) 30th Anniversary Conference. The review aims to optimize the global system for classifying goods in international trade, addressing changes in the trade environment and technological innovation. The IFCBA actively participated and provided feedback, which the WCO pledged to consider. The HS Strategic Review is expected to reduce compliance costs for businesses, improve customs clearance efficiency, promote trade facilitation, and enhance international competitiveness.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Logistics Costs Rise Amid Storage Shortages LMI Report

US Logistics Costs Rise Amid Storage Shortages LMI Report

The latest LMI report reveals continued growth in the logistics industry, but highlights significant challenges including high costs and warehouse capacity constraints. Factors such as inventory buildup, declining transportation utilization, and uncertainties in trade policies contribute to these difficulties. The LMI report provides valuable market insights for businesses, helping them navigate the complex environment and capitalize on opportunities. It underscores the need for strategic adjustments to address cost pressures and optimize warehouse operations in the face of evolving market dynamics.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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