Global Customs Body Strengthens Crackdown on Illegal Waste Trade

Global Customs Body Strengthens Crackdown on Illegal Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively supports the Environmental Network for Optimizing Regulatory Compliance on Illegal Traffic (ENFORCE), combating illegal waste trade through enhanced international cooperation and strengthened customs enforcement capabilities, protecting the environment and human health. The WCO will assist ENFORCE members in strengthening connections with customs administrations worldwide, promoting joint training, and preparing for enforcement actions related to illegal waste. This collaboration aims to disrupt illicit flows and safeguard global environmental security.

WCO Enhances Customs Risk Training in Americas Caribbean

WCO Enhances Customs Risk Training in Americas Caribbean

With the support of the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Risk Management Pre-Accreditation Workshop for the Americas and Caribbean region in Guatemala City. The workshop aimed to expand the WCO's pool of experts and enhance member's capabilities in risk management. Participants were assessed on their technical knowledge, presentation skills, and communication abilities. This initiative contributes to building a safer and more efficient global trade environment.

Burkina Faso Customs Advances Green Trade with Ecocompliance

Burkina Faso Customs Advances Green Trade with Ecocompliance

Burkina Faso Customs is committed to building green trade corridors by enforcing international and domestic environmental regulations and collaborating with multiple departments. Facing challenges such as insufficient information sharing, future plans include establishing a single window platform to strengthen cooperation, promote trade facilitation, and foster economic development. The focus is on improving efficiency and transparency in customs procedures while adhering to environmental standards, ultimately contributing to sustainable economic growth for Burkina Faso.

Malaysia and South Africa Bridging Distance Culture and Economy

Malaysia and South Africa Bridging Distance Culture and Economy

This paper explores the geographical distance, cultural differences, and economic development levels between Malaysia and South Africa. The two countries are approximately 9731 kilometers apart, requiring connecting flights. Culturally, Malaysia features a diverse ethnic mix, while South Africa is heavily influenced by European culture. Economically, Malaysia is a middle-income country, and South Africa is one of Africa's most developed nations. Despite limited historical ties, globalization presents significant potential for cooperation between the two countries.

Mauritius Tax Authority Boosts Ecoprotection Via Data Partnerships

Mauritius Tax Authority Boosts Ecoprotection Via Data Partnerships

The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) effectively implements environmental compliance in cross-border trade through legal frameworks, institutional cooperation, risk management, and technology application. Despite challenges in information sharing and capacity building, the MRA's experience offers valuable lessons for other countries, particularly in waste management, green technology promotion, and endangered species protection. This approach highlights the importance of a multi-faceted strategy for integrating environmental considerations into international trade practices and ensuring sustainable development.

Global Customs Agencies Adopt Agile Tech at WCO 2026

Global Customs Agencies Adopt Agile Tech at WCO 2026

The 2026 WCO Technology Conference in Abu Dhabi successfully concluded, focusing on "Customs Agility in a Complex World." The conference highlighted the pivotal role of technology in enhancing customs efficiency and ensuring trade security. Discussions covered the application of technologies like non-intrusive inspection, risk management, and cloud computing, emphasizing international cooperation and multi-stakeholder engagement. A hackathon showcased innovative practices, pointing towards the development of smarter, more secure, and efficient customs operations.

Zimbabwes Trade Efficiency Rises with Wcobacked Single Window

Zimbabwes Trade Efficiency Rises with Wcobacked Single Window

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Zimbabwe Electronic Single Window (ZeSW) project through workshops, aiming to strengthen cooperation with government agencies and enhance trade facilitation. The workshops cover Single Window concepts, data model applications, and business process reengineering. Drawing on the successful experience of Nigeria, the initiative assists Zimbabwe in building an efficient and convenient trade platform. The goal is to streamline trade procedures and improve overall efficiency for businesses operating in Zimbabwe.

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.

West and Central Africa Strengthen Customs to Fight Art Trafficking

West and Central Africa Strengthen Customs to Fight Art Trafficking

Under the initiative of the World Customs Organization, West and Central African Customs administrations have jointly developed an action plan to strengthen cultural heritage protection and combat illicit trafficking. The plan encompasses key areas such as raising awareness, enhancing inter-agency cooperation, and conducting practical training. It emphasizes the importance of international collaboration to build a robust barrier against the illegal trade in cultural artifacts and promote the preservation of cultural heritage across the region.

Asiapacific Nations Crack Down on Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

Asiapacific Nations Crack Down on Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

The Asia-Pacific region faces a significant challenge from the illegal trade of plastic waste. The Asia Pacific Plastic Waste (APPW) project, initiated by the World Customs Organization, aims to strengthen customs' response capabilities, mitigate the threat of illegal shipments, and promote the Basel Convention amendment. Through Coordinated Border Management (CBM) and international cooperation, the project seeks to effectively control and facilitate plastic waste trade, collectively building a future without 'plastic enclaves'.