Comoros Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Single Window System

Comoros Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Single Window System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of Comoros to assist the country in evaluating the feasibility of implementing a Single Window. The assessment will provide Comoros with tailored recommendations and capacity-building support to strengthen effective coordination between customs and other border agencies, enhance trade facilitation reforms, and move towards a Single Window environment. This initiative ultimately aims to promote economic development in Comoros by streamlining trade processes and reducing associated costs and delays.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaragua Launches AEO Program to Streamline Trade

Nicaragua Launches AEO Program to Streamline Trade

Nicaragua has launched an AEO pilot program, supported by the WCO, aimed at enhancing customs capacity, streamlining clearance procedures, reducing business operating costs, and boosting international trade competitiveness. The program includes AEO certification and Time Release Studies, designed to create an efficient and convenient customs environment and promote Nicaragua's economic development. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the ease of doing business and attract foreign investment by fostering a more predictable and reliable trade ecosystem.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Customs System Eases Trade Amid Environmental Rules

New Customs System Eases Trade Amid Environmental Rules

A WCO workshop in the EAC/SADC region helped customs administrations address environmental risks, combat illicit trade, protect the environment, and facilitate trade. The workshop aimed to strengthen customs' capacity to identify and manage environmental risks associated with cross-border movements. Businesses are encouraged to improve their compliance levels to mitigate potential risks related to environmental regulations and international trade practices. This proactive approach ensures both adherence to legal requirements and contribution to a more sustainable global trade environment.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Extends Trade Program to Aid Developing Nations Customs

WTO Extends Trade Program to Aid Developing Nations Customs

The Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), a collaboration between the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the World Customs Organization (WCO), has been extended until December 2023 due to its significant achievements. The program aims to promote economic growth in developing countries by simplifying trade procedures and improving customs administration through capacity building. This extension will consolidate gains, address challenges posed by the pandemic, and enhance sustainability, ultimately providing long-term development opportunities for beneficiary countries.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcos GTFP Initiative

Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcos GTFP Initiative

WCO remotely assisted Colombian Customs in optimizing its strategic planning, enhancing operational efficiency and performance measurement. This involved introducing project-based management and emphasizing capacity building to ensure sustainability. The assistance aimed to improve the overall effectiveness of Colombian Customs and align its operations with international best practices. The support included guidance on developing key performance indicators (KPIs) and implementing effective project management methodologies. The initiative was part of the broader GTFP project, focusing on trade facilitation and security.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Assessment Enhances Zambias Trade Facilitation Efforts

WCO Assessment Enhances Zambias Trade Facilitation Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a trade facilitation capacity assessment in Zambia, focusing on time release studies, coordinated border management, data harmonization, and single window development. The assessment provided specific recommendations aimed at enhancing internal capabilities within the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and establishing a timeline for implementing the time release study. This supports Zambia's trade facilitation reforms by identifying areas for improvement and offering a roadmap for achieving greater efficiency in customs procedures and border management.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Program Boosts Botswana Customs Tax Reform Efforts

WCO Program Boosts Botswana Customs Tax Reform Efforts

The WCO conducted a leadership workshop in Botswana to enhance the capabilities of Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) managers and promote tax reform. This initiative, funded by Finland, highlights the crucial role of leadership in driving customs modernization and organizational effectiveness. The workshop aimed to equip BURS personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge to lead effectively, contributing to improved revenue collection and overall efficiency. Capacity building through leadership development is a key component of sustainable customs modernization efforts.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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INAMA Initiative Expands Antiwildlife Trafficking in Africa Asia

INAMA Initiative Expands Antiwildlife Trafficking in Africa Asia

The INAMA project supports customs authorities in nine African and Asian countries, enhancing their capacity to combat illegal wildlife trade through expert support missions. These missions focus on training, legislation, risk management, and action plans. The project promotes international cooperation, improves enforcement capabilities, and protects biodiversity, aiming to build a strong defense against ecological threats. By strengthening customs controls and fostering collaboration, INAMA contributes to the global effort to conserve endangered species and maintain ecological balance.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Chiefs Plan Trade Recovery Reforms

Asiapacific Customs Chiefs Plan Trade Recovery Reforms

The WCO Asia Pacific Heads of Customs Conference was held in Seoul, focusing on upgrading strategies, building smart customs, and strengthening international cooperation. Thailand was elected as the next Vice-Chair. South Korea will establish a training center to further support capacity building in the region. The conference highlighted the importance of regional collaboration to enhance trade facilitation and security within the Asia Pacific region and beyond, aiming to create a more efficient and interconnected global trade environment.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Boosts Customs Valuation Via WCO Training Program

Lesotho Boosts Customs Valuation Via WCO Training Program

The WCO conducted customs valuation training in Lesotho to enhance the country's capacity, promote trade facilitation, and support the implementation of WTO agreements, ultimately improving the trade environment. This initiative aimed to strengthen Lesotho's ability to accurately assess the value of imported goods, leading to increased revenue collection and reduced trade barriers. By building local expertise in customs valuation, the WCO's training contributes to a more transparent and efficient trading system, fostering economic growth and regional integration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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