WCOWACAM Project Modernizes Ghana Customs Operations

WCOWACAM Project Modernizes Ghana Customs Operations

An assessment by the World Customs Organization (WCO) of its WCO-WACAM project supporting the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) revealed significant progress in stakeholder engagement, human resource management, and strategic management. The WCO has proposed further collaboration aimed at strengthening customs administration in Ghana, promoting trade facilitation, and fostering economic development. The project's impact highlights the importance of targeted capacity building initiatives in achieving customs modernization goals and contributing to broader economic growth within the region.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Serbia Boosts Customs Modernization with WCO Support

Serbia Boosts Customs Modernization with WCO Support

With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Customs Cooperation Fund Germany (CCF Germany), Serbian Customs held a workshop on customs laboratory modernization and Harmonized System (HS) tariff management. By enhancing laboratory analysis capabilities, optimizing HS code application, and strengthening capacity building, Serbian Customs aims to promote trade facilitation, improve revenue collection, and combat smuggling, ultimately boosting its international competitiveness. This initiative reflects Serbia's commitment to aligning with international standards and improving its customs operations.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Evaluates Ugandas CITES Enforcement Capabilities

WCO Evaluates Ugandas CITES Enforcement Capabilities

In 2017, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of the Uganda Revenue Authority's capacity to enforce the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The assessment utilized an institutional assessment tool, combined with field visits and interviews, aiming to enhance Uganda Customs' ability to combat illegal wildlife trade. The assessment findings will guide future cooperation between the WCO and the Uganda Revenue Authority, contributing to global biodiversity conservation efforts.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ghana Customs Regains Control of Commodity Classification

Ghana Customs Regains Control of Commodity Classification

The Ghana Revenue Authority, with assistance from the World Customs Organization (WCO), is working to reclaim commodity classification rights from private inspection companies. This initiative aims to increase tax revenue, enhance customs expertise, and safeguard national economic sovereignty. The WCO provides technical and financial support through workshops and other means, assisting Ghana in establishing an autonomous and controllable tariff system. This effort serves as a model for other developing countries seeking to strengthen their customs capabilities and economic independence.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Cape Verde in Landmark Customs Efficiency Study

WCO Backs Cape Verde in Landmark Customs Efficiency Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, supported the Cape Verde Customs Administration (CVCA) in conducting its first Time Release Study (TRS) to improve clearance efficiency and optimize trade processes. The workshop brought together stakeholders to develop an action plan, assisting Cape Verde in fulfilling the World Trade Organization's Trade Facilitation Agreement, improving the business environment, and promoting economic development. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to streamline customs procedures and reduce release times.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Supports Gambia Revenue Authoritys HR Modernization

WCO Supports Gambia Revenue Authoritys HR Modernization

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting the modernization of human resource management at the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization Project. This project assisted the GRA in finalizing key tools such as the competency directory, job directory, service charter, and job descriptions, laying the groundwork for future communication and change management. The WCO will continue to support the GRA in improving its management level, promoting regional trade facilitation and economic development.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Strengthens Environmental Rules to Curb Illegal Waste Trade

WCO Strengthens Environmental Rules to Curb Illegal Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is strengthening its collaboration with the Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network (ENFORCE) to enhance customs' role in combating the illegal cross-border trade of waste. Through capacity building, information sharing, international cooperation, and policy advocacy, the WCO assists its member customs administrations in effectively implementing the Basel Convention. This collaborative effort aims to address global environmental challenges and build a sustainable future by preventing and countering illegal waste shipments across borders.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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African Customs Labs Enhance Skills Via Asiapacific Training

African Customs Labs Enhance Skills Via Asiapacific Training

In April 2023, the World Customs Organization organized a study visit to Japan for heads of African Customs Laboratories to learn best practices from Asia-Pacific regional customs laboratories. The visit included examining laboratory operation models, technologies, infrastructure, and a tour of the Japan Customs Laboratory. African representatives expressed their commitment to enhancing their national laboratory capabilities and looked forward to future international exchanges and cooperation. The visit highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in strengthening customs laboratory expertise.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Maldives Boost Customs Cooperation in Joint Workshop

Uzbekistan Maldives Boost Customs Cooperation in Joint Workshop

Uzbekistan and Maldives Customs exchanged insights on post-clearance audit (PCA) through a virtual workshop under the World Customs Organization framework. Maldives Customs shared its experience in organizational structure, legal framework, operational procedures, departmental collaboration, and IT systems. This collaboration aims to enhance Uzbekistan's PCA capabilities and foster cooperation between the two customs administrations. The workshop provided a platform for knowledge sharing and best practices, contributing to improved efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations for both countries.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Tajikistan Customs Boosts Efficiency with WCO Time Release Study

Tajikistan Customs Boosts Efficiency with WCO Time Release Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully conducted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for Tajikistan Customs, aiming to help the country launch a new TRS cycle and improve customs clearance efficiency. The workshop covered TRS methodology, software applications, and special measures during the pandemic. It laid the foundation for Tajikistan's future TRS implementation, contributing to trade facilitation and economic growth. The TRS will help identify bottlenecks and improve procedures leading to faster release times and increased trade competitiveness.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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