The World Customs Organization (WCO) will hold a technical conference in 2026, bringing together experts and stakeholders from the global customs sector to discuss innovations in customs technology and modernization in management. The conference aims to promote international cooperation and the sharing of experiences, fostering improvements in customs efficiency and transparency.
With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Mali Customs has initiated a modernization reform of Human Resource Management (HRM) aimed at building a competency-based modern HRM system. Through diagnostic assessments, capacity building, and the refinement of the position system, Mali Customs has laid the foundation for creating an excellent customs workforce. This aims to better serve the country's economic development by improving efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organization.
African students from the University of Münster visited the World Customs Organization (WCO) to gain insights into customs capacity building. Through expert lectures and participation in meetings, the students gained a more direct understanding of the current development status of African customs and the WCO's support measures. The WCO will continue to strengthen cooperation with African customs to help its modernization and transformation. This visit highlighted the importance of international collaboration in enhancing customs efficiency and promoting trade facilitation across the African continent.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) announced the addition of Spanish and Arabic versions to its PICARD Professional Standards, aiming to enhance the professional capabilities of customs officers worldwide and facilitate international trade. The WCO expressed gratitude to the University of Costa Rica and the Saudi Customs for their translation support. The WCO will continue to promote the standards to support global customs capacity building initiatives. This expansion ensures wider accessibility and implementation of best practices in customs administration across diverse linguistic regions.
With the assistance of the World Customs Organization, the State Customs Service of Ukraine has completed a draft strategic planning framework. This framework aims to strengthen customs border management, modernize customs operations, and enhance Ukraine's institutional trade platform. The plan encompasses key elements such as stakeholder analysis, SWOT analysis, and a reimagined vision and mission. It emphasizes the importance of risk management, specific measures, timelines, and performance indicators. This strategic plan lays the foundation for the modernization and transformation of Ukrainian customs.
The timeline for customs clearance is influenced by various factors, including the accuracy of declaration information, completeness of documents, and customs inspection processes. Typically, swift release can be achieved when declarations are error-free; however, inquiries or the need for manual approvals can extend the time required. Thus, improving customs declaration efficiency remains a continuous goal for customs authorities.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) presented a diagnostic report to the Maldives Customs Service, highlighting areas for improvement in customs valuation, post-clearance audit, and risk management. The report recommended establishing a robust risk management system, optimizing valuation processes, and upgrading audit methodologies. The Commissioner General of Maldives Customs pledged to develop an action plan based on the recommendations to enhance customs efficiency and transparency, ultimately fostering economic development. This initiative aims to modernize customs operations and facilitate smoother trade flows for the Maldives.
Korea Customs Service (KCS) signed a cooperation agreement with the World Customs Organization (WCO). Through the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, KCS aims to provide high-level training to customs officials from other countries, sharing Korea's experiences and best practices in trade facilitation. KCS also pledged to increase its financial and human resource contributions to the WCO, assisting WCO members in implementing relevant standards and jointly promoting the advancement of global customs affairs. This collaboration underscores Korea's commitment to supporting international customs cooperation and development.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Benin Customs Administration in implementing a competency-based human resource management system, aiming to enhance customs administration in the region. Through the WCO-WACAM project, Benin Customs completed a job directory, competency inventory, and job descriptions, and developed a detailed work plan, laying the foundation for HR modernization. This initiative not only improves the quality of Benin Customs staff but also provides a reference for other African countries. This project contributes to strengthening customs efficiency and effectiveness.
Within the framework of the World Customs Organization, Uzbekistan and Maldives Customs conducted a virtual learning exchange on Post Clearance Audit (PCA). The Maldives shared its experience in PCA organization, legal framework, operations, coordination, and IT systems. This effectively enhanced Uzbekistan's customs audit capabilities and promoted cooperation between the two customs administrations. This activity provides a valuable reference for other countries seeking to improve customs management through international cooperation.
