Gambia Customs Modernizes with Wcos Reform Initiative

Gambia Customs Modernizes with Wcos Reform Initiative

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, supports the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in implementing a competency-based modern Human Resource Management (HRM) system. This project aims to enhance talent selection, development, and motivation mechanisms within Gambian Customs, thereby improving its efficiency and competitiveness, and injecting new impetus into Gambia's economic development. The project team has finalized key HRM tools and received training in communication and change management.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Enhances Georgias Tax Valuation for Modern Administration

WCO Enhances Georgias Tax Valuation for Modern Administration

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a valuation workshop for the Georgian Revenue Service (GRS) to enhance the expertise of customs officials in areas such as royalties, risk analysis, advance rulings, and transfer pricing. By focusing on challenges and sharing the 'WCO Guide to Customs Valuation and Transfer Pricing,' the workshop strengthened cooperation between customs and tax authorities. This initiative supports the modernization of tax administration in Georgia and helps maintain international trade order.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Wcokorea Program Boosts Global Customs Trade Efficiency

Wcokorea Program Boosts Global Customs Trade Efficiency

The 4th WCO-Korea Customs & Business Administration Advanced Training Program successfully concluded at Seoul National University, with customs officials from 10 developing countries participating. The program aimed to provide a theoretical framework for international trade and business management, helping participants address customs challenges. Through a combination of theory and practice, the program enhanced participants' capabilities. The WCO also provided support for customs reform and modernization. All parties will continue to collaborate and contribute to the development of global customs affairs.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts New Project Management System

Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts New Project Management System

The Gambia Revenue Authority, with WCO support, developed a project management methodology to improve project efficiency, standardize processes, reduce risks, and optimize resource allocation. This initiative aims to enhance the Authority's ability to effectively manage and deliver projects related to tax reform and revenue collection. By implementing a structured approach, the GRA seeks to improve accountability, transparency, and ultimately, its overall performance in achieving its strategic objectives. The project management framework will also facilitate better coordination and communication among different departments and stakeholders.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
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
Read More
Freight Industry Eyes Recovery by 2026 Amid Challenges

Freight Industry Eyes Recovery by 2026 Amid Challenges

Facing sluggish demand, freight industry giants are hoping for a recovery in 2026 and adopting 'wintering' strategies such as cost control and operational optimization. However, challenges such as supply-demand imbalances and overcapacity persist. Whether the industry can overcome these difficulties ultimately depends on market equilibrium and the efforts of the companies themselves.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
February Truckload Volume Dips Flatbed Demand Rises Against Trend

February Truckload Volume Dips Flatbed Demand Rises Against Trend

The DAT Truckload Volume Index shows a seasonal decline in van and refrigerated freight in February, while flatbed demand bucked the trend and increased. The overall drop is likely related to the fewer days in February, while the growth in flatbed trucking may be tied to infrastructure and manufacturing recovery. Businesses should pay close attention to market dynamics and be flexible in their response. This shift highlights the importance of monitoring specific sector trends within the broader freight market.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Latin American Tax Program Enhances Leadership Compliance

Latin American Tax Program Enhances Leadership Compliance

The advanced course on Tax and Customs Administration successfully held its third and fourth editions in Guatemala, providing strategic skills and tools to senior tax and customs officials from Central and South America. Jointly launched by the IMF, the Spanish Institute for Fiscal Studies, and the WCO, the course aims to enhance tax and customs administration and facilitate trade in the region. The upcoming fifth edition will continue to focus on modern management skills and leadership development.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Shipping Firms Idle Fleets Amid Weak Global Freight Demand

Shipping Firms Idle Fleets Amid Weak Global Freight Demand

The global ocean freight market is facing weak demand, prompting shipping companies to increase blank sailings to combat falling freight rates. While blank sailings offer temporary relief, they cannot resolve the fundamental supply-demand imbalance. Moving forward, shipping companies need to optimize strategies and improve services, while shippers must strengthen supply chain management. Collaborative efforts are crucial to navigate market challenges and achieve long-term stability in the ocean freight market. The key is addressing the core issues beyond short-term fixes like blank sailings.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
West Africa Security Project Emphasizes Gender Equality

West Africa Security Project Emphasizes Gender Equality

The West Africa Security Project (WASP) aims to enhance border security in West Africa by supporting partner countries in developing and implementing gender-sensitive and inclusive policies through its Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) component. Utilizing the WCO's GEOAT tool and training, the project assists customs administrations in comprehensively implementing GED across human resources, border operations, and stakeholder cooperation. This contributes significantly to security and sustainable development in the West African region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More