Namra Partners With ZRA to Advance Tax Automation in Africa

Namra Partners With ZRA to Advance Tax Automation in Africa

Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) officials visited Zambia to learn from the ZRA's experience with the ASYCUDA World system, aiming to enhance tax automation and implement the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) shared insights on innovative modules like electronic payments and valuation control. The WCO will continue to support NamRA in improving its trade environment and fostering economic development. This collaboration highlights the commitment to modernizing customs procedures and promoting regional cooperation for increased efficiency and economic growth within the African continent.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Study Examines Dropping Mandatory Customs Broker Rules

Study Examines Dropping Mandatory Customs Broker Rules

This paper explores the feasibility and implementation strategies of removing mandatory customs broker requirements, analyzing its potential impact on cost reduction, efficiency improvement, and trade growth. It also identifies potential challenges in areas such as regulatory amendments, capacity building, and risk management. The paper proposes a prudent approach, strengthened cooperation, and improved supervision to achieve a win-win situation for trade facilitation and customs supervision. The aim is to streamline processes and foster a more efficient and competitive trade environment while maintaining effective customs control.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Report Exposes Hidden Fees in Global Trade

Report Exposes Hidden Fees in Global Trade

This paper explores the issue of opaque fees in international trade, analyzing the limitations of GATT Article VIII. It proposes methods such as cost breakdown and establishing cost analysis tables to more scientifically evaluate service costs, using the "Special Goods Inspection Fee" as an example. The paper argues that these methods can improve transparency and ensure fees are reasonable and non-discriminatory. It calls for strengthened cooperation among all parties to jointly promote trade facilitation by addressing hidden costs and establishing clear fee structures.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chile Peru US Push for Trade Transparency Via Internet Disclosure

Chile Peru US Push for Trade Transparency Via Internet Disclosure

A joint proposal by Chile, Peru, and the United States aims to enhance trade transparency and reduce transaction costs by using the internet to publish import and export regulations, thereby promoting trade facilitation. The proposal emphasizes the internet as a method of publication and focuses on the specific needs of developing countries. It seeks to assist them in integrating into the global trade system through technical assistance, delegation of functions, and private sector involvement, ultimately fostering an open, transparent, and efficient global trade ecosystem.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Belarus Boosts Crossborder Green Trade Initiatives

Belarus Boosts Crossborder Green Trade Initiatives

Belarusian Customs is actively engaged in cross-border environmental cooperation. Through liaison officers, optimized procedures, and data coordination, they are striving to balance trade facilitation with environmental protection. This involves addressing challenges related to cross-border movement of goods and materials while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The efforts aim to streamline customs processes, reduce delays, and promote sustainable trade practices. Looking forward, Belarusian Customs aims to further enhance its role in facilitating trade while safeguarding the environment, contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Revised Kyoto Convention Aims to Simplify Global Trade

Revised Kyoto Convention Aims to Simplify Global Trade

The revised Kyoto Convention by the World Customs Organization is undergoing comprehensive revision to simplify and harmonize customs procedures, promoting international trade facilitation. The 29th Management Committee meeting discussed 50 potential draft texts related to specific annexes, covering key areas such as goods handling, postal traffic, and relief consignments. Businesses should closely monitor the revision progress, assess potential impacts, and actively participate in providing feedback to adapt to the new trade environment. This will ensure compliance and optimize trade operations under the updated regulations.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Certification Boosts Trade in Francophone Africa

WCO Certification Boosts Trade in Francophone Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Technical and Operational Advisors (TOA) accreditation program, aims to cultivate customs experts proficient in commodity classification, rules of origin, and valuation. This initiative enhances customs capacity in French-speaking African countries, reduces trade costs and friction, and creates more market opportunities for businesses. By fostering expertise and efficiency, the program contributes to a future where trade facilitation is embraced, benefiting both governments and the private sector. The ultimate goal is to streamline processes and promote economic growth.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kazakhstan Tightens Customs Rules to Improve Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Tightens Customs Rules to Improve Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Customs, with WCO support, held a HS Code workshop to improve tariff classification accuracy and consistency, promoting trade efficiency. The workshop covered the application of HS Code General Interpretative Rules, interpretation of Committee Decisions, adaptation to revisions, and the advance ruling system. This initiative aims to enhance the professional skills of customs officials and corporate compliance management, laying the foundation for the modernization of Kazakhstan Customs and the globalization of enterprises. The training is expected to improve trade facilitation and reduce discrepancies in customs declarations.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Comoros Enhances Trade Via WTO Customs Training

Comoros Enhances Trade Via WTO Customs Training

The World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Customs Organization (WCO) jointly held a workshop to provide technical assistance on customs valuation to Comoros, which is seeking to join the WTO, helping it fulfill its accession obligations. The workshop focused on the WTO's Valuation Agreement, covering valuation methods, appeal procedures, pre-shipment inspection, and trade facilitation. The aim was to enhance Comoros' trade competitiveness and build an efficient and transparent trade environment. The training is crucial for Comoros to align its customs practices with international standards.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kenya Customs Adopts Wcobacked Blended Learning for Training

Kenya Customs Adopts Wcobacked Blended Learning for Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WCO-ESA Project II, supports the Kenya Regional Training Centre (RTC) in adopting a blended learning approach to enhance the professional skills of customs officers. This involves integrating online and offline resources. The project includes establishing a national e-learning platform, training trainers, and piloting customs review courses. Blended learning is emerging as a new trend in customs training, contributing to global trade facilitation. This initiative aims to modernize training methods and improve the effectiveness of customs procedures.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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