Philippines Boosts Customs Oversight with STCE Project

Philippines Boosts Customs Oversight with STCE Project

The WCO's STCE Project provided training support to the Philippine Customs on strategic goods control. Through online training, Philippine Customs officers enhanced their capabilities in strategic trade control, risk management, and the application of the Strategic Trade Atlas. The project strengthened cooperation between Philippine Customs and domestic agencies as well as international partners, contributing to national security and the international trade order. This initiative improved the effectiveness of customs operations in preventing the illicit trafficking of sensitive items and promoting responsible trade practices.

Global Alliance Forms to Fight Fake Sports Goods

Global Alliance Forms to Fight Fake Sports Goods

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in combating counterfeit goods, particularly in the sporting goods sector. This collaboration aims to enhance the capacity of customs officials to identify counterfeit products through the promotion of the IPM platform, improved information exchange, and training programs. The initiative seeks to protect consumer rights and maintain market order by preventing the trade of fake sports equipment and other goods.

DR Congo Customs Boosts Revenue with HS Code Upgrade

DR Congo Customs Boosts Revenue with HS Code Upgrade

DR Congo Customs aims to achieve customs autonomy by introducing HS tools and conducting nationwide training, reducing reliance on external organizations. This initiative includes equipping customs offices with HS software, developing provincial promotion plans, improving vocational training systems, and strengthening integrity. By enhancing the professionalism and operational capabilities of customs personnel, DR Congo hopes to boost its economic growth. The implementation of HS tools and comprehensive training are key components of this strategy for achieving greater self-reliance in customs management.

WTO WCO Aid Cape Verde in Customs Reform to Enhance Trade

WTO WCO Aid Cape Verde in Customs Reform to Enhance Trade

The WCO-WACAM project assists Cape Verde in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through support for measures categorization assessment and Time Release Study (TRS), it aims to simplify customs clearance processes, reduce trade costs, and improve trade efficiency. The project not only enhances Cape Verde's compliance capabilities but also provides valuable experience for other developing countries, jointly promoting global trade facilitation. This initiative is crucial for boosting economic growth and competitiveness in Cape Verde by streamlining trade procedures and reducing associated costs.

Costa Rica Boosts Customs Efficiency Via HS Training

Costa Rica Boosts Customs Efficiency Via HS Training

The WCO, with the support of the Korea CCF, co-organized an HS workshop with Costa Rican Customs to enhance officials' HS skills. The workshop covered classification systems, rules, laboratory practices and other relevant topics. This initiative aims to improve the application of the Harmonized System, ensuring accurate classification of goods and ultimately contributing to trade facilitation by streamlining customs procedures and reducing potential delays. The training provided customs officers with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively implement HS regulations.

Global Bust Dismantles Major Counterfeit Goods Ring

Global Bust Dismantles Major Counterfeit Goods Ring

The World Customs Organization and the U.S. National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center jointly launched 'Operation Global Hoax,' uniting customs authorities from 42 countries. The operation resulted in the seizure of a substantial amount of pirated CDs and other counterfeit goods, valued at millions of dollars. This initiative aims to combat piracy conducted through postal and express courier channels, demonstrating the international community's commitment to protecting intellectual property. It also urges the public to resist piracy and support legitimate products.

Amazons Seller Health Program Sparks Debate on Fairness

Amazons Seller Health Program Sparks Debate on Fairness

Amazon launched the Account Health Assurance (AHA) program to mitigate the risk of wrongful account suspensions through manual intervention and appeal guidance. While it has eligibility requirements and time constraints, the program signals Amazon's shift from arbitrary account suspensions to a more reasoned approach, aiming for a healthier partnership with sellers. For sellers, compliant operations and improved performance remain crucial for long-term success on the platform. This initiative shows a move towards greater transparency and fairness in account management.

Ebay Expands Authentication to Trading Cards Collectibles

Ebay Expands Authentication to Trading Cards Collectibles

eBay is expanding its authentication service to include items like games and trading cards valued at $750 or more, while lowering the threshold to $250+ for other eligible goods. This initiative aims to protect consumers, boost platform trust, and expand NFT sales services. eBay is committed to creating a more trustworthy and innovative e-commerce platform, delivering a better shopping experience for users worldwide. The expansion demonstrates eBay's ongoing efforts to enhance buyer confidence and provide a secure marketplace for valuable collectibles.

Youtube Expands Affiliate Program for Brands and Creators

Youtube Expands Affiliate Program for Brands and Creators

YouTube Shopping launched an affiliate marketing program, presenting new traffic growth opportunities for brand independent websites. This initiative connects brands, influencers, and consumers, optimizing the shopping experience and improving purchase conversion rates. Currently in the beta testing phase, primarily targeting the US market, its future development is promising. The program allows creators to tag products directly in their videos and Shorts, earning commission on sales. This integration streamlines the path to purchase and leverages the power of influencer marketing within the YouTube ecosystem.

Wechat Alipay Now Accept International Bank Cards

Wechat Alipay Now Accept International Bank Cards

WeChat Pay and Alipay have fully opened up overseas bank card binding services. Overseas users can now bind mainstream bank cards such as Visa and Mastercard to conveniently use mobile payment in various scenarios like dining, transportation, and shopping malls within China. This allows them to enjoy the same payment experience as domestic users, greatly improving the convenience of consumption for foreigners in China. This initiative aims to enhance the overall experience for international visitors and facilitate seamless transactions across different payment systems.