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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Cape Verde Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Study

Cape Verde Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, supported Cape Verde Customs in preparing its first Time Release Study (TRS) to improve clearance efficiency and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. A workshop facilitated collaboration between customs officials and stakeholders, leading to the development of an action plan. This initiative not only enhances trade facilitation in Cape Verde but also provides a valuable reference for other developing countries. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks and streamline processes for faster goods release.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Adopts Mexican Expertise to Modernize Customs Risk Management

Colombia Adopts Mexican Expertise to Modernize Customs Risk Management

In May 2021, Mexico shared its customs risk management expertise with Colombia, aiming to help Colombia improve clearance efficiency and achieve more effective trade regulation. This customs cooperation initiative facilitated knowledge transfer and best practices, enabling Colombia to strengthen its risk assessment capabilities. By leveraging Mexico's experience, Colombia can enhance its ability to identify and mitigate potential risks associated with cross-border trade, ultimately leading to streamlined processes and improved security. The collaboration underscores the importance of international cooperation in fostering secure and efficient global trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Officers Face Rising Mental Health Challenges Seek Resilience

Customs Officers Face Rising Mental Health Challenges Seek Resilience

In collaboration with SECO, the WCO is enhancing stress management and psychological resilience among Bolivian customs officers through training programs. This initiative aims to equip them with the necessary skills to effectively cope with the challenges posed by the pandemic, ensuring they can maintain their well-being and continue performing their duties effectively under pressure. The training focuses on building coping mechanisms and fostering a positive mindset.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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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Mongolia Boosts Customs Efficiency Via HS Rules Advance Rulings

Mongolia Boosts Customs Efficiency Via HS Rules Advance Rulings

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Mongolia successfully hosted a national workshop on the HS Nomenclature and Advance Rulings, aimed at enhancing the commodity classification skills of customs officials and addressing the increasingly complex challenges of international trade. Through international cooperation and experience exchange, Mongolian Customs is committed to improving efficiency, promoting trade facilitation, and contributing to national budget revenue. The workshop emphasized practical application and knowledge sharing to strengthen customs operations.

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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Pacific Islands Enhance Customs Skills Via WCO Training Program

Pacific Islands Enhance Customs Skills Via WCO Training Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a Harmonized System (HS) expert development program for Pacific Island Countries, aiming to enhance customs capacity in the region by building a regional pool of experts. The first working group activity was held in October 2021, with the participation of customs administrations from six countries, including Fiji and Papua New Guinea. This initiative, a collaboration between the WCO and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), seeks to promote trade development and economic cooperation among Pacific Island Countries.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Latin America Strengthens Tax Customs Systems Through Global Partnerships

Latin America Strengthens Tax Customs Systems Through Global Partnerships

The "Senior Tax and Customs Administration Program," jointly organized by institutions like the IMF and WCO, aims to enhance the capabilities of mid-to-senior level managers in tax and customs administrations across Central and South America. This program, delivered through a blended online and offline approach, provides training in areas such as strategic planning, risk management, and change management. It assists customs and tax departments in addressing global trade and tax challenges, ultimately contributing to economic development in the region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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