WCO Backs Ghana Customs Modernization for 21st Century Trade

WCO Backs Ghana Customs Modernization for 21st Century Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, provided strategic planning support to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). This aimed to evaluate and optimize its 2015-2017 Customs Strategic Plan, enhance monitoring and evaluation, and improve project management capabilities. The initiative assists Ghana Customs in building a modern management system fit for the 21st century, ultimately contributing to Ghana's economic development.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Accurate HS Code Classification for Customs Compliance

Guide to Accurate HS Code Classification for Customs Compliance

This article details five methods for querying HS codes: querying on the official website of the General Administration of Customs, using third-party websites, utilizing AI-powered classification assistants, employing third-party customs systems for rough classification, and outsourcing to professional third-party classifiers. For each method, the operational steps, precautions, advantages, and limitations are explained. The aim is to help foreign trade enterprises efficiently and accurately classify commodities, thereby avoiding trade risks.

01/23/2026 HS Code Query
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UN World Customs Org Boost Collaboration for Global Recovery

UN World Customs Org Boost Collaboration for Global Recovery

The UN Secretary-General met with the Secretary-General of the World Customs Organization, agreeing to strengthen cooperation in addressing global challenges and promoting global economic recovery. Key areas of collaboration include vaccine distribution, combating cross-border crime, facilitating trade, and supporting Sustainable Development Goals. Both parties will enhance information sharing, technological innovation, and capacity building, working towards a safer, more prosperous, and sustainable world. This partnership aims to leverage customs expertise in areas crucial for global stability and economic growth.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Committee Clarifies Customs Valuation Rules for Global Trade

WTO Committee Clarifies Customs Valuation Rules for Global Trade

This article provides an in-depth analysis of key decisions made by the WTO Committee on Customs Valuation over the years. It covers critical issues such as royalties, interpretation of terms, treatment of interest, valuation of software carriers, challenges to declared value, and minimum prices. The aim is to offer an authoritative reference for practitioners, promoting fairness and efficiency in international trade. It delves into the nuances of these resolutions, offering practical insights for navigating complex valuation scenarios and ensuring trade compliance.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mali Customs HR System Sets Benchmark for West Africa

Mali Customs HR System Sets Benchmark for West Africa

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Mali Customs successfully implemented a competency-based human resources management system. Through broad participation and high-level support, they optimized recruitment, training, and performance management. This experience provides a valuable reference for other developing countries, emphasizing the importance of high-level commitment, broad participation, and a gradual approach. The goal is to enhance the professionalism of the customs workforce and contribute to national economic development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Gambias Customs Reform for West African Leadership

WCO Backs Gambias Customs Reform for West African Leadership

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, is assisting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in building a competency-based human resource management system. Through expert consultations and institutionalization efforts, the GRA is expected to become a benchmark for human resource management in West Africa, offering valuable lessons for other developing countries. This initiative aims to strengthen the GRA's capabilities and contribute to its overall effectiveness and efficiency in customs administration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Clarifies Customs HS Codes for Smartwatches and Drones

WCO Clarifies Customs HS Codes for Smartwatches and Drones

The Harmonized System Committee (HSC) of the World Customs Organization has released updated HS code classification decisions regarding products like smartwatches and drones. These decisions, presented as classification rulings, revised explanatory notes, and compendiums of classification opinions, provide clear guidance for the international trade of these products. This helps businesses accurately declare goods and reduce trade risks by providing clarity on how these evolving technologies are classified under the Harmonized System.

01/26/2026 HS Code Query
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WCO Promotes Gender Equality in Customs for Womens Day

WCO Promotes Gender Equality in Customs for Womens Day

On International Women's Day 2025, the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlights the 'Women in Customs' project, emphasizing the vital role and contributions of women in the customs domain. By sharing stories of outstanding women, the WCO aims to inspire more women to pursue careers in customs and reaffirm its commitment to gender equality and diversity. This commitment is crucial for building a more efficient, secure, and prosperous global trade system. The WCO recognizes the importance of empowering women within its ranks and fostering an inclusive environment for all.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Issues New Customs Valuation Guidance for Trade Compliance

WCO Issues New Customs Valuation Guidance for Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization is set to release new Explanatory Note 7.1, aiming to clarify the meaning of 'price actually paid or payable' and assist businesses in more accurately performing customs valuation. Companies should thoroughly understand the new regulations, optimize their valuation strategies, reduce trade costs, and improve compliance levels, thereby gaining a competitive edge in cross-border trade. This updated guidance is crucial for navigating the complexities of international trade and ensuring accurate declaration of goods.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ivory Coast Enhances Customs Training for Advanced Ruling System

Ivory Coast Enhances Customs Training for Advanced Ruling System

Côte d'Ivoire is actively enhancing its customs classification skills in preparation for implementing an advance rulings system, aligning with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. With support from the EU and Germany, Côte d'Ivoire held a customs classification workshop aimed at developing expertise, improving trade facilitation, and contributing to global trade. The advance rulings system, a key mechanism, will enhance trade predictability, reduce costs, promote compliance, and facilitate Côte d'Ivoire's integration into the global trading system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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