Eswatini Boosts Customs Audits Via WCO Mercator Program

Eswatini Boosts Customs Audits Via WCO Mercator Program

A WCO Mercator Programme diagnostic of Eswatini Customs' PCA aimed to enhance risk management and trade compliance. The assessment recommended improvements to balance control and facilitation, ultimately promoting economic development. The findings highlighted areas for optimization in PCA processes, focusing on data analysis and risk profiling to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This will contribute to a more streamlined and secure trade environment, fostering economic growth and regional integration for Eswatini.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Boosts Lesotho Customs Modernization with Audit Reform

WCO Boosts Lesotho Customs Modernization with Audit Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully completed a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic mission for the Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA). The mission aimed to assess the LRA's systems, techniques, and methodologies related to PCA and provide recommendations for improvement, enhancing the efficiency and transparency of its tax administration system. This initiative is part of the HMRC-WCO-UNCTAD collaboration project, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in promoting customs modernization in developing countries.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Central African Republic to Launch Customs Preruling System

Central African Republic to Launch Customs Preruling System

The Customs Administration of the Central African Republic is actively preparing to establish an advance ruling system to provide businesses with a more transparent and predictable trade environment, reduce trade risks, and improve customs clearance efficiency. In cooperation with the WCO, the Central African Republic Customs has not only drafted relevant legal drafts but also established a steering committee and accepted the WCO's recommendations. This marks a significant step forward in trade facilitation, potentially promoting economic development and attracting foreign investment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malta Customs Adopts Innovation to Strengthen Island Economy

Malta Customs Adopts Innovation to Strengthen Island Economy

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization visited Malta to discuss development opportunities for small island economies. Malta's Finance Minister highlighted the country's economic transformation, emphasizing the crucial role of customs. The Prime Minister presented the vision of a "Blockchain Island" and called for strengthened international cooperation. Malta Customs has achieved significant success in risk management and technology application, providing a valuable reference for customs cooperation among Mediterranean countries. The discussions focused on leveraging technology and collaboration to enhance trade facilitation and security in the unique context of a small island nation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Group Enters New Era of Cooperation

Global Customs Group Enters New Era of Cooperation

The successful annual conference of the Customs Representatives Association marked the official launch of the association's restructuring and modernization process, injecting new vitality into global customs cooperation. The conference emphasized the crucial role of customs specialists in international collaboration and looked forward to the future of customs cooperation in the context of digitalization and intelligence. The aim is to jointly address global challenges and promote global trade facilitation and security.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Saudi Customs Launches Single Window for MENA Trade

Saudi Customs Launches Single Window for MENA Trade

A regional workshop held by the World Customs Organization in Saudi Arabia focused on coordinating border management, Single Window implementation, and the application of the WCO Data Model in the Middle East and North Africa region. The conference emphasized the importance of strategic planning, business process re-engineering, and data harmonization. The aim is to facilitate regional cross-border trade and economic development by streamlining procedures, improving efficiency, and enhancing transparency. This initiative seeks to create a more seamless and effective trade environment within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Agencies Boost Efficiency Through Talent Management Strategies

Customs Agencies Boost Efficiency Through Talent Management Strategies

This guide aims to assist customs departments in establishing a competency-based human resource management system to enhance organizational effectiveness. It elaborates on the importance of human resource management, provides a roadmap for developing practical tools, and outlines methods for integrating competency orientation into various processes. Divided into three parts, the guide seeks to enable customs departments to build an exceptional team capable of addressing challenges and seizing opportunities. The ultimate goal is to foster a high-performing workforce within customs administrations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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IRU Training Enhances Customs Efficiency and Trade Security

IRU Training Enhances Customs Efficiency and Trade Security

IRU's TIR-EPD training enhances customs efficiency and trade security. This program focuses on leveraging the Electronic Pre-Declaration (EPD) system to facilitate trade and improve risk management. By equipping customs officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to utilize EPD effectively, the training contributes to faster border crossings, reduced delays, and a more secure supply chain. Ultimately, the TIR-EPD training promotes seamless international road transport and strengthens global trade relationships through improved customs procedures.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Customs Delays Disrupt Supply Chains Cause Backlogs

US Customs Delays Disrupt Supply Chains Cause Backlogs

Stricter US customs policies, increased tariffs, and intensified inspections are hindering deliveries to Amazon and Walmart warehouses, exacerbating port congestion. Exporters need to pay close attention to policy changes, strengthen compliance, and optimize logistics to address these challenges. The tightened regulations are impacting supply chains and require proactive measures to mitigate potential disruptions and delays. Businesses should also explore alternative shipping routes and consider diversifying their customer base to reduce reliance on specific markets.

01/05/2026 Logistics
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Kazakhstan Enhances Trade Transit with Wtobacked Customs Reforms

Kazakhstan Enhances Trade Transit with Wtobacked Customs Reforms

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop for Kazakhstan to support the implementation of Article 11 of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, aiming to improve transit efficiency. The workshop focused on the role of the National Transit Coordinator and shared best practices. It provided support for Kazakhstan to optimize transit procedures and promote trade facilitation, strengthening its position as a transit hub in Central Asia. The initiative is expected to streamline customs processes and boost regional trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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