WTO and WCO Forge Partnership to Modernize Global Trade

WTO and WCO Forge Partnership to Modernize Global Trade

The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) met with the Secretary-General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in Geneva to deepen cooperation in traditional trade areas and address pandemic-related challenges. Discussions focused on facilitating cross-border vaccine transport and ensuring global supply chain security. This meeting signals a new era of more efficient and secure global trade. Both organizations aim to streamline procedures and enhance collaboration to support economic recovery and build resilience against future disruptions. The focus is on practical solutions to improve trade flows and promote international cooperation.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Group Prioritizes Trade Facilitation in Uganda

WCO Group Prioritizes Trade Facilitation in Uganda

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) convened in Kampala, Uganda, focusing on SAFE Framework updates, Trade Facilitation Agreement implementation, and e-commerce challenges. The meeting emphasized customs-business partnerships, streamlined clearance procedures, and enhanced international cooperation, aiming to promote global trade security and efficiency. Discussions also explored regional trade cooperation possibilities within Africa. The key takeaway was the importance of collaborative efforts between customs administrations and the private sector to navigate the evolving landscape of international trade and address emerging issues related to security and facilitation.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Asiapacific Supply Chains Postpandemic

WCO Enhances Asiapacific Supply Chains Postpandemic

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the COVID-19 Project to enhance member customs' capacity to respond to pandemics and disasters. The first Asia-Pacific regional workshop focused on disaster management and supply chain continuity, fostering experience sharing and cooperation. The WCO is developing related guidelines and introducing digital procedures. Future efforts will strengthen data-driven decision-making, promote digital solutions, and deepen international cooperation to build a more resilient global supply chain. The project aims to equip customs administrations with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate future disruptions effectively.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Urges Global Collaboration to Bolster Supply Chain Resilience

WCO Urges Global Collaboration to Bolster Supply Chain Resilience

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization emphasized the importance of strengthening international cooperation to address global crises and rebuild supply chain resilience at the 7th Annual Meeting of International Organizations. He outlined the WCO's measures to ensure the continued flow of goods and maintain supply chain stability. He also highlighted future areas of cooperation, including digitalization, e-commerce, and disaster management, urging participants to transform crises into opportunities for collaboration. The speech underscored the critical role of customs organizations in facilitating trade and promoting global economic security.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Americas Caribbean Boost Customs Capacity with Upgraded Contact System

Americas Caribbean Boost Customs Capacity with Upgraded Contact System

The second meeting of National Contact Points for Customs Capacity Building in the Americas and the Caribbean aimed to deepen understanding of WCO capacity building programs, strengthen the role of National Contact Points, and promote regional cooperation. The meeting emphasized the importance of National Contact Points in needs assessment, project coordination, and experience sharing, as well as the ROCB's role as an engine for regional capacity building. Future efforts will focus on strengthening the National Contact Point network, optimizing needs assessment processes, promoting regional cooperation, and enhancing customs capacity.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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California Ports Tackle Market Decline Plan Postpandemic Recovery

California Ports Tackle Market Decline Plan Postpandemic Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the crisis of market share loss for California ports. This article analyzes the multiple challenges faced by these ports, including aging infrastructure, labor issues, environmental regulations, increased competition, and the impact of the pandemic. It proposes strategies such as increasing infrastructure investment, deepening labor-management cooperation, optimizing environmental regulations, improving service quality, strengthening regional cooperation, embracing digital transformation, and seeking support from the federal government. The aim is to provide insights and recommendations for the recovery and future success of California's ports.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Namibia Enhances Trade with Wcobacked WTO Deal

Namibia Enhances Trade with Wcobacked WTO Deal

At the request of the Namibian Customs and Excise Department, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic support mission focused on the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through extensive consultations with Namibian public and private sectors, the WCO will provide a tailored report with recommendations and collaborate with NCE to develop an implementation plan. This initiative aims to enhance capacity building and international cooperation, ultimately assisting Namibia in achieving trade facilitation and economic growth. The mission highlights the importance of customs cooperation in supporting TFA implementation.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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