Customs Key to Asiapacific Trade Resilience During Pandemic

Customs Key to Asiapacific Trade Resilience During Pandemic

The Asian Development Bank and UNESCAP jointly held a webinar focusing on the critical role of customs in safeguarding trade and connectivity during the pandemic. The WCO Secretary General emphasized the need for customs to ensure supply chain transparency and shared WCO's response measures and recommendations for regional cooperation. These included coordinating border management, digitizing procedures, and building capacity. The meeting highlighted the importance of customs in facilitating trade and building resilient supply chains during global crises.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cuba Adopts WCO SAFE Framework to Boost Trade Security

Cuba Adopts WCO SAFE Framework to Boost Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its SAFE Framework and AEO program, supports Cuba in enhancing its trade security. A seminar held in Havana in 2015 marked a significant step for Cuba in embracing international standards and improving trade competitiveness. International cooperation is crucial for building a secure and efficient trading environment. This initiative aims to facilitate legitimate trade while strengthening border controls and combating illicit activities, contributing to Cuba's economic growth and integration into the global trading system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos Clean Seas Initiative Tackles Asiapacific Plastic Waste

Wcos Clean Seas Initiative Tackles Asiapacific Plastic Waste

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Asia Pacific Border Management Waste Project, is assisting Indonesian and Philippine Customs in enhancing their control over plastic waste via virtual diagnostic missions. The project aims to strengthen Customs' ability to handle legal plastic waste imports, reduce the risk of illegal shipments, and raise awareness of the Basel Convention amendments. The WCO will provide customized implementation plans and host regional workshops to foster collaboration and address the challenges of plastic waste management.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Strengthens Risk Management for Middle Corridor Trade in Central Asia Caucasus

WCO Strengthens Risk Management for Middle Corridor Trade in Central Asia Caucasus

The WCO and JICA collaborated to enhance customs risk management capabilities in the Central Asia and Caucasus region. A training program was held in Georgia to develop Master Trainers, aiming to ensure the smooth operation of the 'Middle Corridor'. This initiative focuses on strengthening regional customs expertise and facilitating efficient trade flows along this crucial trade route. The program supports improved risk assessment and management practices within customs administrations, contributing to secure and efficient border procedures.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Islands Boost Customs Skills with Trainer Program

Pacific Islands Boost Customs Skills with Trainer Program

The WCO-JICA MTP project focuses on developing customs trainers in Pacific Island Countries, aiming to enhance their skills in valuation and classification. This initiative contributes to improved customs administration and ultimately facilitates regional trade. Through comprehensive training programs and knowledge transfer, the project empowers local customs officials to effectively implement international standards and best practices. This leads to more efficient border procedures and a more predictable trading environment, supporting economic growth and regional integration within the Pacific region.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Strengthens Asiapacific Plastic Waste Rules Aids Indonesia and Philippines

WCO Strengthens Asiapacific Plastic Waste Rules Aids Indonesia and Philippines

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the Asia Pacific Border Management Waste Project to strengthen customs control over plastic waste in the Asia Pacific region. Through virtual diagnostic missions to Indonesia and the Philippines, the WCO will provide tailored implementation plans and regional workshops to address the challenges posed by the Basel Convention's Plastic Waste Amendments. This initiative aims to collectively combat global plastic pollution by enhancing customs' capacity to monitor and manage transboundary movements of plastic waste.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Streamlines Trade to Spur Economic Growth

Gambia Revenue Authority Streamlines Trade to Spur Economic Growth

The Gambia Revenue Authority is collaborating with the World Customs Organization to optimize customs operations and strengthen trade facilitation measures through the implementation of performance assessment mechanisms. These measures include Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs and coordinated border management. The goal is to enhance the national performance assessment system and promote economic development in The Gambia. This collaborative effort aims to improve customs efficiency and effectiveness, ultimately contributing to a more streamlined and competitive trade environment.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Paraguay Customs Adopts WCO Plan to Improve Efficiency

Paraguay Customs Adopts WCO Plan to Improve Efficiency

The WCO assisted Paraguay Customs in developing a five-year strategic plan and building a management reporting system. This initiative aims to improve decision-making efficiency and enhance customs modernization. The strategic plan provides a roadmap for future development, while the management reporting system enables data-driven insights and performance monitoring. Ultimately, this collaboration with the WCO supports Paraguay Customs in achieving its strategic goals and enhancing its overall effectiveness in trade facilitation and border security.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Customs Inspections Guide for Ocean Freight Shippers

US Customs Inspections Guide for Ocean Freight Shippers

This article provides a detailed analysis of the US customs inspection process for ocean freight, covering document review, border inspection, re-examination, and release notification. It delves into key factors influencing inspection time, such as cargo type, value, quantity, and historical records. Practical advice is offered to shorten inspection times, assisting importers and exporters in achieving efficient customs clearance. The article aims to help businesses navigate the complexities of US customs and minimize delays in their supply chains.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Logistics Firms Adapt to Ecommerce Surge Trade Shifts

Logistics Firms Adapt to Ecommerce Surge Trade Shifts

The global logistics industry is undergoing transformation. The United States Postal Service (USPS) is reducing fees, while SHEIN is achieving record sales in the UK. DHL is investing in e-commerce solutions, and collaborations are emerging in air cargo logistics. The Chinese market presents significant growth potential, driving express delivery expansion. E-commerce companies are preparing for the peak season, highlighting the dynamic landscape of the logistics sector and its crucial role in supporting global trade and e-commerce growth. These developments showcase the evolving strategies employed to navigate the challenges and opportunities within the modern logistics environment.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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