WCO Aids Gabon in Curbing Illegal Wildlife Trade

WCO Aids Gabon in Curbing Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a CITES-Framework Action Plan training in Gabon, aimed at enhancing the capacity of African customs officers to combat illegal wildlife trade. Hosted by the Gabonese Customs Administration, the training involved representatives from multiple countries, focusing on discussing challenges and sharing experiences. The U.S. Department of State funded the training. The WCO-INAMA project is dedicated to protecting Africa's biodiversity through training and cooperation. This initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in tackling wildlife crime and strengthening customs enforcement efforts.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mongolia Boosts Customs Efficiency with WTO Trade Initiative

Mongolia Boosts Customs Efficiency with WTO Trade Initiative

With the support of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs and the World Customs Organization, the Mongolian Customs General Administration successfully held a risk management workshop. The workshop aimed to enhance risk identification, assessment, and response capabilities. Through practical exercises, experience sharing, and learning from Australian border management practices, Mongolian Customs is expected to significantly improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, create more favorable conditions for economic development, and maintain national border security. The ultimate goal is to strengthen risk management practices and facilitate trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Maldives Boost Customs Audits in Joint Workshop

Uzbekistan Maldives Boost Customs Audits in Joint Workshop

Under the World Customs Organization framework, Uzbekistan and Maldives Customs successfully held an online seminar focusing on the exchange of Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) experiences. The Maldives shared their practices in organizational structure, legal framework, operating procedures, and IT systems, aiming to enhance Uzbekistan's capabilities in PCA. This exchange also strengthened customs cooperation between the two countries, fostering trade facilitation and improving customs administration efficiency. The seminar provided a platform for knowledge sharing and best practice adoption in the area of post-clearance audit.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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IMF Course Boosts Tax Administration in the Americas Via SECOWCO GTFP

IMF Course Boosts Tax Administration in the Americas Via SECOWCO GTFP

The SECO-WCO GTFP supports an IMF advanced course designed to enhance the strategic planning and risk management capabilities of tax and customs administrators in the Americas. The course aims to deepen their understanding of emerging trends in taxation and international trade. Through a blended learning approach, combining online and in-person sessions, participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This initiative ultimately contributes to regional economic development by fostering improved tax and customs administration practices.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Biden Administration Steps In to Prevent Rail Strike Safeguard Supply Chains

Biden Administration Steps In to Prevent Rail Strike Safeguard Supply Chains

The Biden administration signed an executive order establishing a Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) to mediate the labor dispute between major US freight railroads and labor organizations representing 12 railroad unions. This action aims to prevent potential supply chain disruptions. The PEB will investigate the dispute and submit recommendations for resolution within 30 days. The goal is to ensure stability for the US economy by facilitating a fair agreement and averting a potential strike that could significantly impact the nation's supply chain.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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WCO Chief Visits Dutch Customs to Boost Global Trade Links

WCO Chief Visits Dutch Customs to Boost Global Trade Links

WCO Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya visited the Netherlands Customs, focusing on information sharing, GNC, data quality, the Multilateral Mutual Assistance Convention, and mutual recognition, discussing global customs cooperation. The Secretary General expressed gratitude for the Netherlands' contribution to WCO technical assistance and looks forward to continued collaboration to build an open, efficient, and secure new global trade landscape. The visit highlighted the importance of strengthened partnerships and innovative solutions for addressing evolving challenges in international trade and customs administration.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Niger Customs Upgrades HR Systems to Boost Border Efficiency

Niger Customs Upgrades HR Systems to Boost Border Efficiency

With the support of the WCO-WACAM project, Niger Customs launched a human resource management modernization project. This initiative aims to raise awareness and garner broad support for HR modernization both within and outside the customs administration through change management and communication activities. By diagnosing challenges, building a competency framework, and conducting pilot programs, Niger Customs is committed to building an efficient, professional, and dynamic workforce. This workforce will contribute to the country's economic development and ensure its security.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sri Lankan Woman Breaks Barriers in Maledominated Customs Sector

Sri Lankan Woman Breaks Barriers in Maledominated Customs Sector

A Sri Lankan female Deputy Director of Customs shares her story of overcoming challenges and achieving career advancement in a male-dominated field. She encourages women to confidently challenge norms and promotes gender equality within the customs service. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance and breaking down barriers for women in leadership roles, inspiring others to pursue their professional goals and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive workplace within the customs administration and beyond.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Botswana Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

Botswana Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) workshop for the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) to enhance its revenue administration capabilities. This activity, part of the Swedish government-funded Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, covered topics like risk management and customs valuation. The workshop aims to assist Botswana in increasing tax revenue, combating smuggling, and promoting trade facilitation and sustainable development. It focuses on strengthening BURS's ability to effectively conduct PCA and improve overall customs control.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Executive Program Aims to Empower Customs Leaders in Global Trade

New Executive Program Aims to Empower Customs Leaders in Global Trade

The Executive Program in Commerce and Business Administration (EPCBA) aims to enhance the strategic thinking and practical skills of customs managers from developing countries. The program covers key topics such as international trade theory, business management knowledge, WCO international standards, and the WTO TFA, helping participants address customs challenges and promote global trade facilitation. It provides a comprehensive understanding of modern customs practices and equips participants with the tools necessary to improve efficiency and effectiveness in their respective roles.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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