Lesotho Revenue Authority Modernizes Talent Management for Efficiency

Lesotho Revenue Authority Modernizes Talent Management for Efficiency

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) is implementing a competency-based human resource management system in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to enhance operational efficiency and tax revenue. WCO workshops and capacity-building support are helping LRA staff acquire modern HR management skills and develop action plans. With strong commitment from LRA leadership, talent management is poised to be a key driver in the tax department's transformation. This initiative signifies a significant step towards modernizing the LRA and improving its ability to meet its revenue collection goals.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Shanghai Conference Focuses on Trade Facilitation Partnerships

WCO Shanghai Conference Focuses on Trade Facilitation Partnerships

At the IFCBA Conference in Shanghai, the WCO emphasized customs-business cooperation to promote trade facilitation. Key focuses included the Belt and Road Initiative and capacity building for customs brokers. The WCO highlighted the importance of collaboration between customs administrations and the private sector in streamlining trade procedures and reducing barriers. This cooperation is crucial for achieving efficient and secure global trade flows, particularly within the context of the Belt and Road Initiative's ambitious infrastructure and connectivity goals. Strengthening the skills and expertise of customs brokers is also vital for smooth and compliant trade operations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO BRS Partner to Advance Green Trade Via HS Codes

WCO BRS Partner to Advance Green Trade Via HS Codes

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Secretariats of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (BRS) highlighted their collaboration in addressing environmental and social issues using the Harmonized System (HS) at the BRS COPs in Geneva. The WCO facilitates customs control of goods threatening the environment and human health by introducing HS codes. They shared elements of successful proposals, aiming to strengthen global cooperation and build a sustainable trade future. This partnership demonstrates how the HS can be leveraged for environmental protection and responsible trade practices on a global scale.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Marks 20 Years of Boosting Asiapacific Customs Capacity

WCO Marks 20 Years of Boosting Asiapacific Customs Capacity

The WCO Regional Office for Capacity Building Asia Pacific (ROCB A/P) celebrates its 20th anniversary. It has significantly enhanced customs capacity in the region and promoted trade facilitation. Moving forward, the ROCB A/P will continue to strengthen cooperation with member administrations and partners. Its focus remains on delivering effective capacity building programs and fostering regional integration to support sustainable economic growth and security within the Asia-Pacific region. The anniversary marks a significant milestone in the ROCB A/P's commitment to advancing customs modernization and regional collaboration.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Expertise France Boost Gender Equality in African Tax Agencies

WCO Expertise France Boost Gender Equality in African Tax Agencies

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Expertise France jointly organized a gender equality workshop in Côte d'Ivoire. The workshop aimed to raise awareness of gender equality among customs and tax officials in West and Central Africa. Practical tools, such as the Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT), were introduced. The event also facilitated the exchange of experiences between countries, laying the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive customs and tax environment. The initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in promoting gender equality within customs and taxation sectors.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malta Customs Adopts Innovation to Strengthen Island Economy

Malta Customs Adopts Innovation to Strengthen Island Economy

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization visited Malta to discuss development opportunities for small island economies. Malta's Finance Minister highlighted the country's economic transformation, emphasizing the crucial role of customs. The Prime Minister presented the vision of a "Blockchain Island" and called for strengthened international cooperation. Malta Customs has achieved significant success in risk management and technology application, providing a valuable reference for customs cooperation among Mediterranean countries. The discussions focused on leveraging technology and collaboration to enhance trade facilitation and security in the unique context of a small island nation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nigeria Revises Tariffs to Align With Afcfta Trade Pact

Nigeria Revises Tariffs to Align With Afcfta Trade Pact

Nigeria is upgrading its tariff system in collaboration with the WCO and ECOWAS to prepare for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This modernization aims to improve trade efficiency, combat smuggling, and promote regional integration. The updated system will streamline customs procedures and enhance compliance with international standards, ultimately facilitating smoother trade flows and contributing to Nigeria's economic growth within the AfCFTA framework. This initiative signifies Nigeria's commitment to leveraging the opportunities presented by the AfCFTA and strengthening its position as a key player in African trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Highlights Customs Key Role in Pandemic Preparedness

WCO Highlights Customs Key Role in Pandemic Preparedness

The WCO's COVID-19 project aims to enhance customs' capacity to respond to emergencies and ensure supply chain security. Key aspects include international cooperation and technological innovation. The project focuses on strengthening customs' preparedness, facilitating the flow of essential goods, and mitigating disruptions to global trade. By fostering collaboration and leveraging innovative technologies, the WCO seeks to build more resilient and secure supply chains in the face of future crises. This initiative underscores the importance of customs in safeguarding global trade and protecting public health during times of uncertainty.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO South Korea Boost Trade Training with Clikc Upgrade

WCO South Korea Boost Trade Training with Clikc Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Korea Customs Service (KCS), is upgrading the CLiKC! e-learning platform to enhance the capacity of customs officials worldwide to address emerging technologies and global trade trends. By developing new courses, optimizing platform technology, and expanding language support, this project will provide higher-quality training resources for customs personnel and supply chain partners. This initiative aims to promote global trade facilitation and international customs cooperation, ultimately strengthening the global customs community's ability to navigate the complexities of modern trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Boosts Customs Efficiency with Japanbacked HS Code Training

Malawi Boosts Customs Efficiency with Japanbacked HS Code Training

Sponsored by Japan Customs and organized by the World Customs Organization, a national HS workshop was held in Malawi to enhance the commodity classification skills of Malawian customs officers. The aim was to improve tax revenue efficiency and promote international trade development. The workshop focused on core HS principles and practical operations, emphasizing the importance of capacity building for a sound tax system and exploring the strategic significance of improving HS coding capabilities. This initiative underscores the commitment to strengthening customs operations through targeted training and international collaboration.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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