WCO Speeds Up Disaster Aid After Earthquakes Floods

WCO Speeds Up Disaster Aid After Earthquakes Floods

The World Customs Organization (WCO) expresses its deep sorrow regarding the recent earthquake in Morocco and the floods in Libya. The WCO emphasizes the crucial role of customs in disaster relief, offering tools and guidelines to streamline border procedures and expedite the cross-border movement of life-saving supplies. The WCO urges member customs administrations to prioritize the clearance of relief goods, implement simplified and advance declarations, and adopt flexible clearance procedures. It also calls for enhanced international cooperation to jointly respond to disasters and provide support and condolences to the affected communities.

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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WCO Mechanism Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

WCO Mechanism Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

The 6th meeting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Working Group on Performance Measurement successfully concluded, marking significant progress in the development of the WCO Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM). The meeting finalized the first edition of PMM Key Performance Indicators, advanced the implementation of the data collection platform, and improved the self-assessment and peer review guidelines. These efforts aim to enhance customs efficiency, facilitate trade, and strengthen international cooperation, ultimately contributing positively to global trade development. The PMM will serve as a valuable tool for customs administrations worldwide.

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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Guatemala Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Partnership

Guatemala Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the Mercator Program, supports Guatemala's Tax and Customs Administration (SAT) in implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This support includes on-site missions, needs analysis, and action plan development. The WCO team engaged with Guatemalan stakeholders, proposing recommendations to optimize customs clearance processes, enhance transparency, and strengthen inter-agency cooperation. The aim is to help Guatemala achieve trade facilitation, thereby promoting economic development. This initiative underscores the WCO's commitment to assisting member states in streamlining trade procedures and fostering a more efficient global trading environment.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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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Delayed Payment Fees Impact Import Process Efficiency

Delayed Payment Fees Impact Import Process Efficiency

A late payment fee refers to the charge that freight forwarders or customs brokers impose on customers after paying customs duties and value-added tax on their behalf, typically calculated as a percentage of the amount paid. Understanding this fee can help businesses optimize their import processes, control costs, and enhance market competitiveness.

08/05/2025 Customs Knowledge
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HS Code Challenges for Plasma Laser and Waterjet Cutting Machines

HS Code Challenges for Plasma Laser and Waterjet Cutting Machines

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the HS code classification for various cutting machines, including plasma, laser, and waterjet cutters. It analyzes both specifically named and unnamed scenarios, offering detailed guidance on HS code classification considerations. The aim is to assist readers in accurately completing customs declarations and avoiding customs clearance issues.

09/26/2025 HS Code Query
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