WCO Releases Guide to Curb Illegal Trade in Ecosensitive Goods

WCO Releases Guide to Curb Illegal Trade in Ecosensitive Goods

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released guidelines to assist customs officers in combating illegal trade in environmentally sensitive commodities. The guidelines place particular emphasis on the Basel Convention and aim to strengthen border controls to protect the environment. By focusing on key areas such as waste management and hazardous materials, the WCO seeks to enhance customs' role in preventing the illicit movement of environmentally damaging goods across international borders and ensuring compliance with international environmental agreements. This initiative is crucial for safeguarding environmental security and promoting sustainable trade practices.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Boosts Trade Control Enforcement in Albania Kosovo

WCO Boosts Trade Control Enforcement in Albania Kosovo

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its STCE and COPES projects, conducted online training for Albanian and Kosovar Customs, aiming to enhance their enforcement capabilities in strategic trade control and dual-use item management. The training covered strategic item definitions, evidence collection standards, and investigation techniques. It emphasized the application of data analysis in risk assessment and intelligence analysis to build a global strategic trade control system and maintain global security. The training is expected to improve the effectiveness of customs operations in preventing the illicit proliferation of sensitive goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Adopts Disruptive Tech to Modernize Global Trade

WCO Adopts Disruptive Tech to Modernize Global Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Permanent Technical Committee (PTC) acknowledged the “Disruptive Technologies Research Report,” focusing on the application of seven key technologies, including blockchain and artificial intelligence, in customs and border management. The report analyzes the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of each technology. It also explores key success factors for innovative customs, data-driven decision-making, smart border construction, and sustainable development. This signals a profound transformation is on the horizon for global trade. The report highlights the potential of these technologies to streamline processes and enhance security.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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South Africas SARS Boosts Female Leadership in Organizational Overhaul

South Africas SARS Boosts Female Leadership in Organizational Overhaul

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an all-women leadership workshop in South Africa for the South African Revenue Service (SARS). The workshop aimed to enhance the leadership skills of female managers and promote institutional reform. Focusing on the challenges faced by SARS, the workshop covered topics such as strategic management and personnel management. Participants actively engaged and benefited greatly. Funded by the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the event reflects the importance placed on women's leadership development and customs modernization. This initiative contributes to building a more inclusive and effective customs administration.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a risk management diagnostic of the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) to enhance its risk management effectiveness and promote trade facilitation. Through in-depth research, multi-stakeholder engagement, on-site visits, and supply chain analysis, the WCO tailored solutions for ERCA and proposed a capacity building action plan. This initiative aims to help Ethiopia establish a more efficient and secure customs administration system. The diagnostic and subsequent recommendations are intended to strengthen ERCA's ability to manage risks effectively and facilitate legitimate trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases Guide to Strengthen Supply Chain Disaster Resilience

WCO Releases Guide to Strengthen Supply Chain Disaster Resilience

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released the 'Disaster Management and Supply Chain Continuity Guidelines' to enhance customs' ability to respond to emergencies and ensure global supply chain stability. Covering the phases of preparedness, response, and recovery, the guidelines address key areas such as risk management, AEO, CBM, NII, and Single Window. It provides practical methods and a comprehensive framework for businesses and customs administrations to navigate crises and ensure smooth global trade flow. The guidelines aim to help mitigate disruptions and maintain the flow of goods during and after disasters.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Shipping Food Safely to Hungary

Guide to Shipping Food Safely to Hungary

This article provides a detailed guide on how to safely and legally ship food to Hungary. It emphasizes key aspects such as food packaging, customs regulations, selection of mailing services, customs declaration, and the clearance process. Common questions are addressed to help readers successfully send food and express their sentiments. The guide aims to navigate the complexities of international food shipping to Hungary, ensuring compliance and a smooth delivery experience for both sender and recipient. It covers practical tips and considerations for avoiding potential issues with Hungarian customs.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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WTO Advocates Trade Transparency Via Advance Rulings

WTO Advocates Trade Transparency Via Advance Rulings

This article explores the role of advance rulings in international trade, highlighting the legal certainty and risk management advantages they offer to businesses and customs in terms of classification, origin, and valuation. The technical guidelines from the World Customs Organization support the implementation of advance rulings by countries, promoting trade efficiency and transparency.

08/08/2025 Logistics
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Importer Security Filing Key to Global Trade Compliance

Importer Security Filing Key to Global Trade Compliance

The Importer Security Filing (ISF) is a crucial requirement by U.S. Customs for importers, which must be submitted 24 hours before cargo is loaded. The ISF includes key information from both the importer and carrier, ensuring smooth customs clearance and avoiding hefty fines. Accurate and timely ISF submissions are vital for importers.

08/05/2025 Customs Knowledge
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