East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

East Africa Boosts Antismuggling Efforts with WCO JICA Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly held a workshop in Uganda to enhance customs intelligence analysis capabilities and strengthen anti-smuggling efforts in East Africa. Customs officials from various East African countries collaborated to develop post-seizure analysis training materials. Experts from the WCO and Japan Customs provided guidance to help East African customs improve their intelligence-driven risk management and combat smuggling crimes. The workshop aimed to build capacity and foster regional cooperation in tackling cross-border illicit trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

In 2017, Lao Customs officers participated in a training program on airport compliance and enforcement, supported by the World Customs Organization and sponsored by the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund. The training aimed to enhance Lao Customs' capabilities in passenger risk management. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, participants mastered key skills such as risk assessment, risk profiling, and target selection. They also learned practical methods including verbal and non-verbal risk assessment and questioning techniques. This initiative contributes to the modernization of Lao Customs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Niger Customs Deploys Geospatial Tech to Curb Smuggling

Niger Customs Deploys Geospatial Tech to Curb Smuggling

Niger Customs utilized high-resolution satellite imagery analysis to identify 855 border crossings in the Torodi region, effectively combating smuggling activities. This initiative demonstrates the significant potential of geospatial intelligence data in border management and provides valuable experience for other countries. The use of satellite imagery allowed for detailed mapping and analysis of remote areas, leading to improved surveillance and interdiction efforts against illegal trade.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mozambique Tightens Customs to Curb Hazardous Waste Smuggling

Mozambique Tightens Customs to Curb Hazardous Waste Smuggling

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with organizations like the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), held a workshop in Mozambique to enhance customs officers' awareness of the Basel Convention and the Montreal Protocol. This initiative aims to strengthen border control of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances. The activity is part of the Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, which supports developing countries' customs administrations in improving their environmental capabilities to address global environmental challenges collectively. The program focuses on building capacity for effective implementation and enforcement of relevant environmental agreements.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Clearance Challenges Addressing Discrepancies and Errors

Customs Clearance Challenges Addressing Discrepancies and Errors

Customs declaration issues are common in foreign trade. This article details three handling methods for problems like weight discrepancies and incorrect information during customs declaration: cancel and re-declare, dealing with the Anti-Smuggling Department, and modifying the declaration. It explains the definitions, differences, costs, and time involved for each. The article emphasizes the seriousness of customs penalties and aims to help foreign traders and freight forwarding companies better handle customs declaration anomalies, ensuring smooth customs clearance.

08/21/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Kyrgyz Uzbek Customs Officers Train in Moscow to Combat Smuggling

Kyrgyz Uzbek Customs Officers Train in Moscow to Combat Smuggling

RILO CIS conducted a training in Moscow for customs officers from Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on the use of CEN/CENcomm. This training aimed to enhance their capabilities in combating smuggling and fostering regional cooperation. The program focused on practical application and knowledge sharing to improve the effectiveness of customs enforcement efforts in the region. By providing officers with the necessary tools and expertise, RILO CIS contributes to a more secure and efficient trade environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Francophone Customs Chiefs Meet in Dakar to Boost Trade Curb Smuggling

Francophone Customs Chiefs Meet in Dakar to Boost Trade Curb Smuggling

The 19th Conference of Heads of Customs Administrations of French-Speaking Countries was held in Senegal, focusing on trade facilitation, economic competitiveness, and customs cooperation in combating illicit trade. The conference adopted the 'Dakar Declaration,' which proposes ten recommendations aimed at simplifying customs clearance procedures, strengthening information sharing, deepening regional cooperation, and improving personnel skills. The WCO pledged its support and will establish a follow-up monitoring system. The Prime Minister of Senegal expressed appreciation and encouragement for the work of customs officials from French-speaking countries.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Streamlining Customs Clearance for Detained Port Goods

Streamlining Customs Clearance for Detained Port Goods

The handling process for cargo detained in the port area but not yet transferred to the anti-smuggling department involves submitting a statement of circumstances, applying for re-inspection, on-site communication, accepting suggestions, and re-declaring. The key is to actively communicate with customs authorities, seek their understanding and support, and complete the relevant procedures as soon as possible to minimize detention costs. Proactive engagement and timely action are crucial to resolving the issue efficiently and mitigating potential financial losses associated with prolonged cargo detention.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos WACAM Project Boosts Customs Collaboration in Cape Verde

Wcos WACAM Project Boosts Customs Collaboration in Cape Verde

The WCO's WACAM project assisted Cape Verde Customs in establishing a stakeholder engagement mechanism to enhance transparency, facilitate trade, combat smuggling, and achieve customs modernization. This initiative fostered collaboration and improved communication between customs authorities and various stakeholders, leading to more efficient and effective customs operations. The project's success highlights the importance of stakeholder involvement in driving customs reform and promoting economic growth.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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