Seychelles Adopts WCO Standards to Simplify Trade

Seychelles Adopts WCO Standards to Simplify Trade

Seychelles is actively adopting the WCO's Harmonized System (HS) standards to improve trade efficiency. This involves overcoming challenges through training programs, revising regulations, and upgrading systems. These efforts aim to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and ultimately foster trade development within the country. The implementation of HS standards is crucial for aligning with international best practices and facilitating smoother international trade transactions for Seychelles.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Djibouti Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Enhance African Trade

Djibouti Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Enhance African Trade

With support from the World Customs Organization and the European Union, Djibouti is updating its national tariff system to align with the international standard Harmonized System (HS). This initiative aims to enhance trade facilitation, increase fiscal revenue, improve international competitiveness, and promote sustainable development, ultimately positioning Djibouti as a new trade hub in Africa. The modernization of the tariff system is expected to streamline customs procedures and reduce trade barriers, contributing to economic growth and regional integration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Albania Enhances Polymer Testing with Wcobacked Customs Lab Upgrade

Albania Enhances Polymer Testing with Wcobacked Customs Lab Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted the Albanian Customs Laboratory in enhancing its polymer analysis capabilities. A workshop focused on key techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). In-depth analysis of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) coding of the European Union was also covered. The initiative aims to improve the ability of customs officers to classify and analyze polymers and elastomers, ultimately promoting trade facilitation. This will lead to more accurate tariff classification and better enforcement of customs regulations.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances North Macedonia Customs with Tariff Training

WCO Enhances North Macedonia Customs with Tariff Training

With the support of the German Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a tariff classification workshop in North Macedonia. Focusing on dairy products, dietary supplements, and high-tech equipment, the workshop aimed to enhance the tariff classification skills of North Macedonian customs officers. This initiative seeks to facilitate international trade and promote customs modernization within the country.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Palestine in Modernizing Tariff System with Data

WCO Aids Palestine in Modernizing Tariff System with Data

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Palestine in upgrading its tariff classification system. Through data-driven diagnostics and improvement strategies, the initiative aims to enhance customs clearance efficiency, secure revenue, promote compliance, and improve international competitiveness. Key measures include establishing a centralized management agency, improving information systems, strengthening personnel training, and fostering cooperation between customs and businesses. The goal is to build an efficient, accurate, and transparent trade environment.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ethiopian Customs Officials Train in HS at WCO HQ

Ethiopian Customs Officials Train in HS at WCO HQ

Ethiopian customs experts visited the WCO headquarters to study and enhance their HS Code application skills. By participating in HS Committee meetings, exchanging ideas with international experts, and collaborating with the HS-Africa project, Ethiopian Customs achieved significant results in capacity building, international cooperation, and future development planning. This visit laid a solid foundation for better integration into the global trade system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Launches Wtobacked Mercator Program to Boost Trade

Moldova Launches Wtobacked Mercator Program to Boost Trade

With the support of the WCO, Moldova has launched the 'Mercator Programme' to implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to enhance trade efficiency, reduce costs, and ultimately promote economic development. The Mercator Programme is expected to streamline customs procedures, improve transparency, and foster greater regional integration. By simplifying trade processes, Moldova seeks to attract foreign investment and boost its competitiveness in the global market.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WHO WCO Update HS Codes to Speed Vaccine Clearance

WHO WCO Update HS Codes to Speed Vaccine Clearance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) jointly released the latest HS code reference list for vaccines and related goods. This initiative aims to standardize international trade, accelerate the cross-border flow of vaccines, improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, ensure vaccine quality, and promote international cooperation, ultimately contributing to the global fight against the pandemic. The unified HS codes will facilitate smoother and faster movement of essential vaccine supplies across borders.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zimbabwe Customs Boosts Textile Inspection After WCO Training

Zimbabwe Customs Boosts Textile Inspection After WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a textile classification training in Zimbabwe to enhance the professional skills of the country's customs officers. The training aims to safeguard revenue, maintain fair trade, and protect intellectual property. Combining theory and practice, the program utilizes methods such as microscopy and burn testing to help Zimbabwean customs develop keen observational skills. This initiative contributes to the country's economic development by improving customs' ability to accurately classify textiles and prevent illicit trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Haiti Exits ECS Convention Raising Trade Concerns

Haiti Exits ECS Convention Raising Trade Concerns

This paper analyzes the current state of the Convention Concerning Customs Facilities for Touring, in particular document PG0134F1 released by the World Customs Organization. Focusing on Haiti's unique position as the sole contracting party, it explores the underlying reasons for its withdrawal from the ECS Convention. By combining data analysis, the study offers insights and lessons for the lifecycle management of international trade agreements. It provides a perspective on the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining and adapting such agreements in a changing global landscape.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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