WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a risk management diagnostic of the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) to enhance its risk management effectiveness and promote trade facilitation. Through in-depth research, multi-stakeholder engagement, on-site visits, and supply chain analysis, the WCO tailored solutions for ERCA and proposed a capacity building action plan. This initiative aims to help Ethiopia establish a more efficient and secure customs administration system. The diagnostic and subsequent recommendations are intended to strengthen ERCA's ability to manage risks effectively and facilitate legitimate trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Philippine Customs Boosts Reform Efforts with WCO Backing

Philippine Customs Boosts Reform Efforts with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Leadership and Management Development Workshop for senior officials of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Philippines. This initiative aims to solidify reform achievements and enhance crisis response capabilities within the BOC. Through customized training and a blend of theory and practice, the workshop supports the BOC in building a more resilient management system. It also lays the groundwork for future collaboration to effectively implement the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement, ultimately contributing to smoother and more efficient trade processes.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and WTO Enhance Collaboration to Boost Global Trade

WCO and WTO Enhance Collaboration to Boost Global Trade

The World Customs Organization and the World Trade Organization reached a consensus at the 6th Global Aid for Trade Review, agreeing to further deepen cooperation to jointly promote the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and strengthen collaboration in emerging areas such as e-commerce. This collaborative effort aims to create a more convenient and efficient environment for global trade, reducing barriers and fostering economic growth through streamlined customs procedures and enhanced international partnerships. The focus remains on facilitating smoother cross-border transactions and leveraging digital technologies for trade advancement.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Boosts Customs Valuation Skills Via WTO Workshop

Moldova Boosts Customs Valuation Skills Via WTO Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a customs valuation workshop in Moldova to enhance the valuation capabilities of Moldovan customs officials within the WTO framework. The workshop focused on establishing and utilizing valuation databases, verifying the authenticity of declared prices, analyzing valuation challenges for special goods, and introducing the advance ruling system. From a data analyst's perspective, the workshop emphasized data standardization, risk assessment model construction, and data support for the advance ruling system, thereby boosting Moldova's trade facilitation level. This initiative aims to streamline customs procedures and promote smoother international trade for Moldova.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Switzerland WCO Aid Bolivias Customs Modernization for Trade

Switzerland WCO Aid Bolivias Customs Modernization for Trade

The WCO conducted an assessment of Bolivia Customs' implementation of the Mercator Agreement, recommending improvements in areas such as risk management and advance rulings. Bolivia expressed its gratitude and appreciation for the recommendations. The assessment highlighted the need for enhanced efficiency and transparency in customs procedures to further facilitate trade and economic growth. Bolivia acknowledged the value of the WCO's expertise and committed to implementing the suggested improvements to strengthen its customs operations and better align with international standards. This collaboration underscores the importance of international cooperation in promoting trade facilitation.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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World Customs Organization Expands Performance Measurement Initiative

World Customs Organization Expands Performance Measurement Initiative

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the second round of its Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM), encouraging members to enhance customs effectiveness through data self-assessment. The meeting highlighted the PMM's crucial role in capacity building, fostering cooperation, and driving institutional modernization. All members were invited to actively participate in the initiative. This round aims to further improve customs operations globally by leveraging data-driven insights and promoting best practices among member administrations. The PMM serves as a valuable tool for identifying areas for improvement and measuring progress towards achieving trade facilitation goals.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advocates Gender Equality to Boost Global Trade

WCO Advocates Gender Equality to Boost Global Trade

The World Customs Organization virtual working group meeting focused on gender equality and diversity within trade facilitation, emphasizing collaboration to foster an inclusive customs environment. Discussions explored the link between gender, inclusion, and trade, highlighting the need to raise awareness of the gender impact of trade policies. Customs administrations shared measures to promote gender equality and inclusion, aiming to ensure that more women and marginalized groups benefit from trade. The meeting underscored the importance of creating a level playing field and addressing systemic barriers to participation in international trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Enhance Global Trade Security

WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Enhance Global Trade Security

The 18th meeting of the WCO SAFE Working Group focused on global trade security and facilitation. It laid the groundwork for a safer and more efficient international supply chain through strengthened inter-agency cooperation, updates to the SAFE Framework of Standards, and improvements to the AEO and MRA toolkits. A breakthrough was achieved regarding the Trade Identification Number (TIN) structure. Key issues such as data analysis and integrated supply chain management were also discussed, injecting new momentum into global trade development. The meeting emphasized collaborative efforts to enhance security and streamline customs processes worldwide.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho and South Africa jointly released an end-to-end clearance time study report, aiming to optimize border management and improve cross-border trade efficiency. The study focuses on the Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge border posts, highlighting the importance of trade facilitation in unlocking the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Both countries are committed to implementing the report's recommendations, strengthening economic ties, and promoting regional economic development. The study underscores the critical role of efficient border procedures in fostering trade and growth within the region.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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