East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly held a workshop in Uganda to enhance customs intelligence analysis capabilities and strengthen anti-smuggling efforts in East Africa. Customs officials from various East African countries collaborated to develop post-seizure analysis training materials. Experts from the WCO and Japan Customs provided guidance to help East African customs improve their intelligence-driven risk management and combat smuggling crimes. The workshop aimed to build capacity and foster regional cooperation in tackling cross-border illicit trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

In 2017, Lao Customs officers participated in a training program on airport compliance and enforcement, supported by the World Customs Organization and sponsored by the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund. The training aimed to enhance Lao Customs' capabilities in passenger risk management. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, participants mastered key skills such as risk assessment, risk profiling, and target selection. They also learned practical methods including verbal and non-verbal risk assessment and questioning techniques. This initiative contributes to the modernization of Lao Customs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Niger Customs Deploys Geospatial Tech to Curb Smuggling

Niger Customs Deploys Geospatial Tech to Curb Smuggling

Niger Customs utilized high-resolution satellite imagery analysis to identify 855 border crossings in the Torodi region, effectively combating smuggling activities. This initiative demonstrates the significant potential of geospatial intelligence data in border management and provides valuable experience for other countries. The use of satellite imagery allowed for detailed mapping and analysis of remote areas, leading to improved surveillance and interdiction efforts against illegal trade.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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RILO Report Highlights Smuggling Trends in Eastern Europe Central Asia

RILO Report Highlights Smuggling Trends in Eastern Europe Central Asia

RILO Eastern and Central Europe (ECE) has released the latest edition of its 'Herald' magazine. This issue features articles from Albanian and Moldovan intelligence liaisons, showcasing recent project operations and WCO activity information. The magazine provides valuable intelligence on smuggling crime for customs, border management, and law enforcement officials. It serves as a key resource for understanding current trends and fostering international cooperation in combating illicit trade and enhancing border security within the region.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Kyrgyz Uzbek Customs Officers Train in Moscow to Combat Smuggling

Kyrgyz Uzbek Customs Officers Train in Moscow to Combat Smuggling

RILO CIS conducted a training in Moscow for customs officers from Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on the use of CEN/CENcomm. This training aimed to enhance their capabilities in combating smuggling and fostering regional cooperation. The program focused on practical application and knowledge sharing to improve the effectiveness of customs enforcement efforts in the region. By providing officers with the necessary tools and expertise, RILO CIS contributes to a more secure and efficient trade environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Air Cargo Tightens Rules to Curb Lithium Battery Smuggling

Global Air Cargo Tightens Rules to Curb Lithium Battery Smuggling

Undeclared lithium batteries pose a significant threat to aviation safety. This paper delves into the causes and dangers of undeclared shipments, emphasizing the importance of ICAO and IATA regulations. It proposes collaborative strategies for shippers, freight forwarders, airlines, customs, and regulatory bodies to effectively prevent risks and ensure compliant lithium battery transportation. By working together, stakeholders can strengthen aviation safety and mitigate the dangers associated with undeclared lithium battery shipments in air cargo.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Americas Caribbean Boost Crossborder Ecommerce Supply Chains

Americas Caribbean Boost Crossborder Ecommerce Supply Chains

The Americas and Caribbean Customs-Postal Strategy Conference highlighted the crucial role of customs-postal cooperation in fostering cross-border e-commerce. The WCO emphasized data-driven approaches and standardized frameworks, while the UPU and PUASP focused on process optimization and combating smuggling. Participants committed to strengthening collaboration to build a more efficient and secure global postal supply chain, laying the groundwork for the future development of cross-border trade. This includes enhanced data exchange and harmonized procedures to facilitate smoother and safer international transactions.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Francophone Customs Chiefs Meet in Dakar to Boost Trade Curb Smuggling

Francophone Customs Chiefs Meet in Dakar to Boost Trade Curb Smuggling

The 19th Conference of Heads of Customs Administrations of French-Speaking Countries was held in Senegal, focusing on trade facilitation, economic competitiveness, and customs cooperation in combating illicit trade. The conference adopted the 'Dakar Declaration,' which proposes ten recommendations aimed at simplifying customs clearance procedures, strengthening information sharing, deepening regional cooperation, and improving personnel skills. The WCO pledged its support and will establish a follow-up monitoring system. The Prime Minister of Senegal expressed appreciation and encouragement for the work of customs officials from French-speaking countries.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Namibia Enhances Border Systems to Improve Trade

Namibia Enhances Border Systems to Improve Trade

Namibia is actively promoting Coordinated Border Management (CBM) by establishing an inter-agency standard regulatory framework and unified data standards, aiming to reduce border delays and facilitate legitimate trade. This framework was developed in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and supported by the WCO's Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme. Namibia's practice provides valuable experience for other developing countries, contributing to building a more open, efficient, and secure global trading system. The initiative focuses on streamlining procedures and enhancing cooperation between various border agencies.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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