WCO Supports Timorleste in Developing Advanced Trade System

WCO Supports Timorleste in Developing Advanced Trade System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) continuously provides capacity building support to Timor-Leste Customs, focusing on the design and implementation of valuation training programs, as well as enhancements in risk management and intelligence. In cooperation with the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), the WCO completed the valuation training module, improved risk management capabilities, and introduced the concept of the 'intelligence cycle'. This assistance supports the modernization of Timor-Leste Customs and contributes to its economic development.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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East Africa Enhances Customs Audits Via WCOJICA Training

East Africa Enhances Customs Audits Via WCOJICA Training

The MTP project, a joint initiative between the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has successfully developed a team of customs audit trainers and created regional training materials in East Africa. This initiative has significantly enhanced the region's customs audit capabilities, contributing to trade facilitation and regional economic development. The project's impact lies in its focus on building local expertise and providing tailored resources to address specific challenges within the East African context.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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East Africa Launches Customs Capacity Building Program

East Africa Launches Customs Capacity Building Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) joint project, 'Train-the-Trainers Programme', has made significant progress in East Africa, enhancing customs capacity by developing a pool of post-clearance audit experts and creating training materials. The project innovatively adopted a 'virtual working group' model during the pandemic to ensure its smooth continuation. Moving forward, the project will further improve training skills and build a sustainable mechanism for customs capacity enhancement in the region.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Jamaica Customs Advances Strategic Plan with WCO Support

Jamaica Customs Advances Strategic Plan with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) in developing a three-year strategic plan. This plan aims to integrate customs reform, modernization, and trade facilitation measures. A workshop was held to build consensus and lay the groundwork for future collaboration. This initiative will support the JCA's modernization efforts and enhance Jamaica's national competitiveness. The strategic plan is expected to guide the JCA in streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and fostering a more conducive environment for international trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Islands Enhance Customs Skills Via WCO Training Program

Pacific Islands Enhance Customs Skills Via WCO Training Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a Harmonized System (HS) expert development program for Pacific Island Countries, aiming to enhance customs capacity in the region by building a regional pool of experts. The first working group activity was held in October 2021, with the participation of customs administrations from six countries, including Fiji and Papua New Guinea. This initiative, a collaboration between the WCO and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), seeks to promote trade development and economic cooperation among Pacific Island Countries.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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UK WCO Extend Trade Facilitation for Developing Nations

UK WCO Extend Trade Facilitation for Developing Nations

UK Customs and the World Customs Organization have extended their trade facilitation cooperation project, investing £1.6 million to support Commonwealth developing countries in implementing the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to enhance customs capabilities, promote inter-agency cooperation, and establish sustainable mechanisms. The project will help developing countries integrate into the global trading system, fostering economic growth. The extended partnership will focus on building long-term capacity and ensuring the benefits of trade facilitation are realized by participating nations.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Addresses Customs Valuation Challenges in Global Trade

WTO Addresses Customs Valuation Challenges in Global Trade

This article delves into key customs valuation decision issues under the WTO framework, including the French translation of copyright, the meaning of the term 'undertaken,' the treatment of interest on imported goods, software carrier valuation, the definition of processing and improvement, and addressing customs queries and handling minimum prices and exclusive agency issues. It aims to provide trade participants with a clear understanding and effective response strategies within the international trade context. This helps navigate the complexities of customs valuation under WTO rules.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCOJICA Initiative Strengthens Customs Trade in East and Southern Africa

WCOJICA Initiative Strengthens Customs Trade in East and Southern Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), successfully held the 3rd Working Group Activity of the Advanced Rules of Origin Trainers Project for the East and Southern Africa region in Zambia. This project aims to cultivate qualified customs trainers, enhance regional customs capacity, and facilitate the smooth implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Through systematic training and curriculum development, the project will provide a solid foundation of skilled personnel for regional trade facilitation.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China's Export Dilemma: Buyout vs. Agency Trade Models Compared

China's Export Dilemma: Buyout vs. Agency Trade Models Compared

The difference between buying export and agent export lies in the former referring to exports conducted through an entity with export rights when lacking such rights, while the latter involves an authorized exporter acting as an agent to ensure foreign exchange repatriation. Buying export does not enjoy tax rebates, whereas agent export can apply for them. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for foreign trade operations.

07/28/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Liberia Upgrades Tax Agency HR Systems with WCO Assistance

Liberia Upgrades Tax Agency HR Systems with WCO Assistance

With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) is modernizing its Human Resource Management (HRM). This includes developing a job catalog and competency framework, as well as initiating capacity assessments and change management. Emerging as a model in West Africa, the LRA is progressing towards becoming a regional leader in HRM, offering valuable lessons for other developing nations. The modernization efforts aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the LRA's workforce.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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