Somalia Modernizes Customs System to Boost Global Trade

Somalia Modernizes Customs System to Boost Global Trade

Somalia is actively implementing the Harmonized System (HS) to integrate into the global trading system. International organizations, such as the EU and the World Customs Organization (WCO), are providing support to modernize Somali Customs. Despite challenges, the implementation of the HS will facilitate trade, attract investment, and promote economic development in Somalia. This initiative is crucial for streamlining customs procedures and aligning Somalia with international standards, ultimately contributing to its economic growth and integration into the global marketplace.

Pacific Islands Boost Customs Valuation with Expert Program

Pacific Islands Boost Customs Valuation with Expert Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly launched the "Master Trainer Programme" to develop customs valuation experts in Pacific Island Countries. This initiative aims to establish a regional training system, enhance customs valuation capabilities, facilitate trade, increase revenue collection, and improve international competitiveness. The first working group activity has been successfully held, laying a solid foundation for future actions.

Global Trade Adopts Green Customs Codes for Sustainability

Global Trade Adopts Green Customs Codes for Sustainability

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a global “Green Customs” reflection, exploring revisions to the Harmonized System (HS) code to better integrate environmental considerations and promote a global green economy through a series of workshops. These workshops focus on five key areas: food, chemicals, textiles, basic materials, and green technologies. They provide valuable insights and recommendations for the 'greening' of the HS coding system, aiming to build a more sustainable future. The initiative seeks to leverage trade policies to support environmental protection and sustainable development goals.

WCO Promotes Sustainable Trade with Green Customs Initiative

WCO Promotes Sustainable Trade with Green Customs Initiative

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Green Customs Action Plan (GCAP), aims to transform customs into advocates and practitioners of green trade, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). GCAP is divided into short-term, medium-term, and long-term phases, covering the greening of customs operations, the promotion of green trade, and the exploration of innovative measures. Through these three pillars, customs administrations will actively contribute to achieving the UN SDGs. The plan emphasizes a holistic approach to integrating environmental considerations into customs practices.

Global Customs Agencies Pledge Faster Disaster Relief Clearance

Global Customs Agencies Pledge Faster Disaster Relief Clearance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) pledged to expedite customs clearance for disaster relief goods at the World Humanitarian Summit, emphasizing communication, coordination, and protection. The WCO will gather experiences, provide training, and launch an assistance project in West Africa. The Secretary General called for international cooperation to build an efficient and reliable global humanitarian relief system, leveraging data analysis to improve rescue efficiency. The WCO aims to streamline processes and foster collaboration to ensure aid reaches those in need quickly and effectively during times of crisis.

Liberia Launches Digital Etariff Platform to Streamline Customs

Liberia Launches Digital Etariff Platform to Streamline Customs

The Liberia Revenue Authority held a workshop on its e-Tariff platform, aimed at improving the efficiency and accuracy of tariff classification. The platform, expected to launch in September, will cover commodity classification, tariff inquiries, and customs declaration form completion, incorporating Harmonized System revisions. With 53 officials from key departments participating, this initiative marks a significant step in Liberia's customs digital transformation.

Bhutan Boosts Customs Data Analysis with WCO Assistance

Bhutan Boosts Customs Data Analysis with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on Data Analysis and Artificial Intelligence for Bhutan Customs, aiming to enhance its data-driven decision-making capabilities. Through theoretical learning, practical exercises, and international experience sharing, Bhutanese customs officials grasped the applications of data analysis and AI in areas such as risk management and fraud detection. This initiative lays the foundation for the modernization and transformation of Bhutan Customs, enabling them to leverage data for improved efficiency and effectiveness.

WCO Launches Online Course for Customs Change Management

WCO Launches Online Course for Customs Change Management

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched an online Change Management course to equip customs professionals with the skills to navigate the evolving international trade landscape. The course covers change management concepts, stakeholder engagement, tools and processes, and resistance management, emphasizing a blend of theory and practice. It is available on the CLiKC! platform and is accessible free of charge to WCO members. The course aims to improve customs administrations' ability to adapt to new challenges and implement effective trade facilitation measures.

Montenegro Customs Boosts Valuation Skills in WCO Workshop

Montenegro Customs Boosts Valuation Skills in WCO Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on customs valuation for Montenegrin customs officials. The workshop aimed to enhance their professional skills and master the use of valuation databases for risk assessment. Covering the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation, valuation methods, and practical case studies, the workshop assists Montenegrin customs in better fulfilling their duties, safeguarding national revenue, and ensuring fair trade. The training is expected to improve their ability to accurately assess the value of goods and effectively identify potential risks associated with import and export activities.

WCO JICA Boost Customs Audits in East Africa

WCO JICA Boost Customs Audits in East Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly launched the "East African Post Clearance Audit Instructor Training Program" (MTP). This initiative aims to cultivate a high-quality regional instructor pool, enhance the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities of East African customs administrations, and facilitate trade. Through systematic training, curriculum development, and expert guidance, the program seeks to improve PCA skills, promote trade facilitation, strengthen regional cooperation, and achieve sustainable development in the region.