Namport, as a state-owned enterprise in Namibia, manages the key ports of Walvis Bay and Lüderitz, facilitating global trade. Walvis Bay connects Southern Africa with major economies, while Lüderitz promotes access to the South African market. Namport is dedicated to enhancing port efficiency to strengthen Namibia's position in international trade.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is implementing a Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) capacity-building project in West Africa. Through workshops, assessments, and action plans, the project aims to enhance the GED awareness and practical capabilities of customs administrations in countries like Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana. This initiative seeks to promote a more equitable, inclusive, and efficient customs system, ultimately facilitating trade and fostering economic development in the region. The project focuses on improving internal policies and practices within the customs administrations.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) joint project held an advanced Customs Valuation trainer workshop in East Africa. The aim was to cultivate experienced trainers, develop practical training materials, and enhance customs valuation capabilities in East Africa, thereby promoting trade facilitation. Through case studies, expert guidance, and skills sharing, the workshop improved the professional level of customs officials and customs brokers, contributing to regional economic development. The initiative underscores the importance of skilled personnel in ensuring fair and efficient trade practices.
Kenya Airways leverages its Nairobi hub to build a global cargo network, providing efficient and reliable air freight services. Its robust transportation capabilities and cargo tracking system help businesses seamlessly connect the East African market with the world, solving cross-border logistics challenges. The airline offers a comprehensive range of solutions for various industries, ensuring timely and secure delivery of goods to and from East Africa, facilitating trade and economic growth in the region.
The World Customs Organization's INAMA Project held an advanced intelligence training in Zambia, aiming to enhance the intelligence analysis capabilities of customs administrations in Sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative seeks to more effectively combat illicit trade, protect wildlife, and promote sustainable development. The training covered the role of intelligence in law enforcement planning, core analytical techniques, and post-operation analysis. The project is funded by the U.S. Department of State and supported by various stakeholders, contributing to improved regional security and economic stability.
The 36th WCO ESA Regional Steering Group Meeting focused on customs modernization, emphasizing capacity building, regional cooperation, and strategic guidance. The ROCB's report highlighted its contributions to capacity building and technical assistance. The WCO Secretariat presented strategic plans and emerging issues. Businesses should focus on policies, strengthen compliance, participate in capacity building initiatives, communicate with customs authorities, and embrace technological innovation to seize opportunities and achieve business growth. This meeting underscored the importance of collaborative efforts and strategic alignment for effective trade facilitation in the region.
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai outlined a new trade strategy towards China, emphasizing a worker-centric approach. This involves evaluating the Phase One agreement, initiating a tariff exclusion process, and addressing deeper structural issues to rebuild American competitiveness. Industry observers suggest the policy's impact requires further observation, and businesses should remain flexible in their response. The strategy aims to reshape the US's competitive edge in the global market while addressing concerns about fair trade practices with China.
A Chinese Customs delegation visited the World Customs Organization headquarters to engage in in-depth discussions on trade facilitation, coordinated border management, and the single window concept. The visit aimed to support the development of China's National Single Window and learn from international best practices to optimize border management. This initiative will help China play a greater role in global trade facilitation. The discussions focused on streamlining customs procedures and enhancing collaboration to improve efficiency and reduce trade costs.
Kuhar Port is emerging as a new hub for international trade in Southern Africa, dedicated to providing comprehensive import, export, and value-added services. This development is expected to drive regional economic revival.
Tema Port, as the largest maritime hub in West Africa, offers comprehensive loading, unloading, and storage facilities, making it a vital force in Ghana's economic development. It primarily exports cocoa, timber, and other goods while importing crude oil, increasingly establishing itself as a significant node in global trade and driving regional development.
