WCO and IDB Partner to Enhance Latin American Trade

WCO and IDB Partner to Enhance Latin American Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) participated in a policy dialogue with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), sharing trade facilitation experiences to support trade development in Latin America. Key initiatives highlighted included the Single Window, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and the Mercator Program. The WCO emphasized the importance of international cooperation in promoting global trade. The dialogue aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange to enhance trade efficiency and security within the Latin American region and beyond.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Global Trade System Marks 30 Years As Harmonized Standard

Global Trade System Marks 30 Years As Harmonized Standard

The Harmonized System (HS) serves as a universal language for global trade, playing an irreplaceable role in facilitating international trade, customs management, and economic development. This paper reviews the HS's development over the past three decades, analyzes its significant functions and challenges, and proposes suggestions such as strengthening international cooperation, promoting technological innovation, and improving classification standards. The aim is to further enhance the HS's effectiveness and adaptability, contributing more significantly to the prosperity and development of global trade.

01/03/2018 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Enhances Zimbabwes Trade Facilitation with Better Project Management

WCO Enhances Zimbabwes Trade Facilitation with Better Project Management

WCO training helps Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) enhance its project management capabilities to better implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. ZIMRA places great importance on project governance and looks forward to continued cooperation with the WCO. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs procedures, contributing to smoother trade flows and economic growth in Zimbabwe. By strengthening project management skills, ZIMRA can effectively manage and implement various trade facilitation initiatives, ultimately benefiting businesses and the overall economy.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Usmexico Trucking Strains Under Driver Shortage As Nearshoring Grows

Usmexico Trucking Strains Under Driver Shortage As Nearshoring Grows

The US-Mexico trucking market in 2026 presents both opportunities and challenges. Nearshoring drives trade growth and foreign investment, but capacity shortages, security risks, and policy changes create a 'triple pressure'. Rates are expected to rebound, but driver shortages and customs reforms require attention. Technology enablement and regional cooperation are key to overcoming these obstacles. Companies need to be proactive and adaptable to navigate this evolving landscape, leveraging innovation and strategic partnerships to capitalize on growth while mitigating risks.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Botswana Enhances Border Efficiency with WCO Study at Mamuno

Botswana Enhances Border Efficiency with WCO Study at Mamuno

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Botswana in conducting a Time Release Study at the Mamuno border post to establish a One-Stop Border Post and enhance trade facilitation. Through data collection and analysis, bottlenecks are identified and processes optimized, injecting new vitality into Botswana's economic development. This initiative not only improves efficiency but also promotes international cooperation, setting a precedent for trade facilitation in Africa. The study aims to streamline border procedures and boost economic growth.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Cte Divoire Boosts Tariff Control with WCO Customs Modernization

Cte Divoire Boosts Tariff Control with WCO Customs Modernization

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic mission to the Ivorian General Directorate of Customs (DGD) to strengthen its tariff classification and valuation control capabilities. During the mission, WCO experts engaged in in-depth discussions with Ivorian customs officials and conducted on-site visits to observe customs operations. The expert team provided targeted recommendations to help Ivorian Customs improve regulatory effectiveness and safeguard national economic development. The aim is to enhance customs procedures and ensure efficient trade facilitation within Côte d'Ivoire.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Helps Togo Increase Revenue by Tightening Customs Controls

WCO Helps Togo Increase Revenue by Tightening Customs Controls

The World Customs Organization (WCO) completed a three-phase capacity building assistance program for Togo Customs, aimed at helping the Togolese Revenue Office (OTR) reclaim outsourced customs valuation functions and enhance its valuation capabilities. The program, through diagnostic assessments, expert training, and the establishment of an electronic database, helped Togo Customs close tax loopholes and increase fiscal revenue, providing stronger financial support for national development. The initiative strengthened Togo's ability to accurately assess customs duties and improve overall customs administration.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Customs Brokerage Key Roles of Declarants Enterprises and Brokers

Customs Brokerage Key Roles of Declarants Enterprises and Brokers

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the conceptual differences between Customs Declaration Units, Customs Brokerage Enterprises, and Customs Brokers, clarifying their respective definitions and business scopes. Through case studies and methods for querying customs registration information, it helps readers identify different types of customs declaration service providers. Furthermore, it offers suggestions for selecting suitable customs partners, aiming to provide professional guidance for import and export trading companies. The article focuses on understanding the nuances of each entity to facilitate informed decision-making in international trade.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade

WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade

On International Women's Day 2025, the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlights its 'Women in Customs' initiative, emphasizing the vital role of women in the customs domain. By showcasing exemplary female figures, the WCO aims to promote gender equality and diversity. Initiatives like the 'Customs Gender Equality and Diversity Framework' are being introduced to foster a fairer, more inclusive, and efficient customs administration system. The WCO is committed to building a future where women can thrive and contribute fully to the success of customs worldwide.

03/07/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Comprehensive Guide to Customs Declaration Elements and Inquiry Methods

Comprehensive Guide to Customs Declaration Elements and Inquiry Methods

In foreign trade customs declarations, the essential elements of declaration must be filled out when reporting to customs. These elements are categorized into three main types: classification, pricing, and document review. Information can be obtained by consulting customs documents, using clearance websites, historical declaration sites, and regional customs official websites. These methods of inquiry help improve customs clearance efficiency and ensure the accuracy and completeness of the declaration information.

07/28/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More