The article explores the importance of revenue collection as a core function of customs and how, with social development, the role of customs has expanded to include anti-counterfeiting, anti-terrorism, and environmental protection. Customs faces both challenges and opportunities in balancing these new tasks with traditional responsibilities.
The World Customs Organization held a workshop in Ecuador to support the modernization of its customs laboratory and enhance its capabilities in commodity classification, tax collection, and combating smuggling. The meeting focused on topics such as the application of the Harmonized System, analytical methodologies, database applications, and green customs. The workshop highlighted the crucial role of a modern customs laboratory in improving customs clearance efficiency, increasing tax revenue, protecting the environment, and promoting international trade. It underscored the importance of investing in laboratory infrastructure and training for sustainable development.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is strengthening cooperation with ASEAN to combat cross-border smuggling of counterfeit and substandard COVID-19 supplies. This collaboration aims to enhance customs control capabilities, strengthen intelligence sharing, and leverage technology to build a new framework for global customs cooperation. The initiative seeks to safeguard global health security by preventing the proliferation of illicit medical products and ensuring the integrity of supply chains. This partnership underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing transnational threats and protecting public health.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) trained Customs officers from the Middle East and North Africa in Beirut to enhance their capacity to combat cultural property smuggling. The training covered key areas including identification of smuggled artifacts, international cooperation, relevant legal frameworks, and practical enforcement techniques. The aim was to equip officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively identify, seize, and prevent the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage items, thereby contributing to the protection of cultural heritage in the region.
The Americas and Caribbean Customs-Postal Strategy Conference highlighted the crucial role of customs-postal cooperation in fostering cross-border e-commerce. The WCO emphasized data-driven approaches and standardized frameworks, while the UPU and PUASP focused on process optimization and combating smuggling. Participants committed to strengthening collaboration to build a more efficient and secure global postal supply chain, laying the groundwork for the future development of cross-border trade. This includes enhanced data exchange and harmonized procedures to facilitate smoother and safer international transactions.
Undeclared lithium batteries pose a significant threat to aviation safety. This paper delves into the causes and dangers of undeclared shipments, emphasizing the importance of ICAO and IATA regulations. It proposes collaborative strategies for shippers, freight forwarders, airlines, customs, and regulatory bodies to effectively prevent risks and ensure compliant lithium battery transportation. By working together, stakeholders can strengthen aviation safety and mitigate the dangers associated with undeclared lithium battery shipments in air cargo.
RILO Eastern and Central Europe (ECE) has released the latest edition of its 'Herald' magazine. This issue features articles from Albanian and Moldovan intelligence liaisons, showcasing recent project operations and WCO activity information. The magazine provides valuable intelligence on smuggling crime for customs, border management, and law enforcement officials. It serves as a key resource for understanding current trends and fostering international cooperation in combating illicit trade and enhancing border security within the region.
This article provides a detailed interpretation of the scope and time limits for supplementary duty payments, including underpaid or missed duties due to classification or valuation errors after goods release, domestic sales transfer of specific duty-free or reduced-duty goods, and illegal smuggling. It clarifies the statute of limitations for customs to recover underpaid or missed taxes and emphasizes the importance of compliant operation for businesses and individuals to mitigate tax risks. Aiming to help enterprises understand the regulations and avoid potential tax liabilities.
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.
WCO, in collaboration with the Belgian Customs Academy, provides training to African customs officials to enhance their capabilities. Recently, officials visited the WCO headquarters to deepen cooperation, focusing on areas such as digital transformation. This partnership aims to strengthen customs administration in Africa and facilitate trade by building a skilled workforce and promoting modern practices. The collaboration underscores the WCO's commitment to supporting Africa's development through effective customs management and capacity building initiatives.
