WCO Backs Benin Customs in Advancing Gender Equality

WCO Backs Benin Customs in Advancing Gender Equality

The World Customs Organization (WCO) partnered with Benin Customs for a follow-up action in Cotonou, implementing Gender Equality and Diversity (GEDC) policies and raising awareness among customs officers. Through workshops and action plans, the initiative aims to create a customs working environment that respects diversity, promotes equal treatment and opportunities, and contributes to sustainable development. The collaboration focuses on fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace within Benin Customs, ultimately strengthening its capacity and contributing to broader societal goals.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Middle East North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

Middle East North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

A Customs Valuation and Fraud Workshop was held in Jordan, supported by the World Customs Organization and the China Customs Cooperation Fund. The workshop aimed to enhance the professional skills of customs officers from North Africa, the Near East, and the Middle East. It focused on the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation, the application of the Revenue Package, and fraud response. Through case studies and risk management discussions, the workshop promoted regional cooperation and the construction of a fair trade environment.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Bahamas Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Study

Bahamas Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Study

With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Bahamas Customs has launched its first Time Release Study (TRS). This initiative aims to quantify the time taken at each stage of the customs clearance process, identify bottlenecks, and optimize procedures. The goal is to improve customs efficiency, reduce trade costs, enhance the business environment, and prepare for accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The WCO provides technical assistance and training to help Bahamas Customs modernize and promote trade facilitation.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Belgian Customs Academy Train African Officials

WCO Belgian Customs Academy Train African Officials

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Belgian Customs School (BCS) are deepening their collaboration to provide tailored training for customs officials from French-speaking African countries. This includes visits to the WCO headquarters and upgraded BCS courses, aiming to enhance their professional capabilities. This initiative intends to better serve African economic development and provide a model for global customs cooperation. The partnership underscores the commitment to strengthening customs administrations in Africa and fostering a more efficient and effective global trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Advocates Gender Equality to Boost Customs Efficiency

WCO Advocates Gender Equality to Boost Customs Efficiency

The World Customs Organization conference emphasized inclusive customs practices, advocating for gender equality and diversity. The focus was on empowering women and vulnerable groups to enhance trade efficiency. The discussions highlighted the importance of creating a fair and equitable environment within customs administrations and across international trade. This approach aims to leverage the talents of all individuals, fostering innovation and collaboration to improve customs operations and contribute to sustainable economic development. Ultimately, inclusive customs practices lead to more effective and efficient trade facilitation.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Japan Customs Lab Boosts Trade Analysis with Global Partners

Japan Customs Lab Boosts Trade Analysis with Global Partners

RCL Japan Brief No. 19 highlights the advancements of the Central Customs Laboratory of Japan (CCL Japan) in international cooperation and capacity building. The brief showcases CCL Japan's efforts to enhance global customs analysis capabilities through collaborative projects and knowledge sharing initiatives. This contribution underscores Japan's commitment to strengthening international customs practices and fostering a more secure and efficient global trade environment by improving analytical skills and knowledge within customs laboratories worldwide.

11/03/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Sierra Leone Adopts Wcos Ncen System to Strengthen Risk Management

Sierra Leone Adopts Wcos Ncen System to Strengthen Risk Management

Under the Mercator Program, the World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Sierra Leone in deploying the nCEN system to enhance risk management and customs valuation capabilities. Through technical assistance, training, and experience sharing, the WCO assists Sierra Leone in establishing an efficient and secure customs system, promoting trade facilitation and economic development. This initiative aims to strengthen customs procedures and improve overall border management in Sierra Leone, contributing to a more streamlined and secure trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Americas Caribbean Customs Agencies Push Gender Equality at Forum

Americas Caribbean Customs Agencies Push Gender Equality at Forum

The Americas and Caribbean Customs Virtual Forum focused on gender equality and diversity, bringing together representatives from 24 countries. They shared experiences, discussed challenges, and launched the Spanish version of the WCO Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT). The forum aims to promote progress in gender equality within customs administrations and integrate it into the customs agenda. This initiative lays the foundation for building a more equitable and inclusive customs environment across the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO HMRC Aid Nigeria Customs in Trade Efficiency Boost

WCO HMRC Aid Nigeria Customs in Trade Efficiency Boost

A WCO project is assisting the Nigeria Customs Service in optimizing document review and risk control. Drawing on South African experience, Nigeria Customs will update its manual strategies to enhance trade facilitation. This initiative aims to streamline customs procedures, improve efficiency, and reduce delays in cross-border trade. By implementing best practices and leveraging international cooperation, Nigeria Customs seeks to strengthen its risk management capabilities and promote a more secure and efficient trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Nigeria Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

Nigeria Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

The Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), is actively promoting a gender equality and diversity strategy. Initiatives include revising action plans and conducting GED (Gender Equality and Diversity) training to raise awareness among customs officers and foster an inclusive work environment. The WCO will continue to provide technical support to help Nigeria Customs achieve more equitable and efficient development. The aim is to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected, contributing to a stronger and more effective customs administration.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More