Madagascar Revamps HR to Strengthen Tax Revenue

Madagascar Revamps HR to Strengthen Tax Revenue

The Madagascar Revenue Authority (MRA), with support from the World Customs Organization (WCO), launched an HR modernization project. This initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency, optimize tax collection, and improve employee engagement by building a competency-based HR management system. The MRA will focus on developing a highly skilled and professional tax workforce through competency models, digital empowerment, and cultural transformation. This transformation will enable the MRA to contribute more significantly to Madagascar's economic development.

Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR System

Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR System

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) is actively implementing a competency-based human resource management system to enhance operational efficiency and tax collection capabilities. Supported by the World Customs Organization (WCO) through training and capacity building, the LRA aims to modernize its HR practices, establishing a transparent and efficient system. This initiative seeks to better serve the nation's economic development by improving the skills and performance of its workforce within the tax administration.

Serbia Boosts Customs Modernization with WCO Support

Serbia Boosts Customs Modernization with WCO Support

With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Customs Cooperation Fund Germany (CCF Germany), Serbian Customs held a workshop on customs laboratory modernization and Harmonized System (HS) tariff management. By enhancing laboratory analysis capabilities, optimizing HS code application, and strengthening capacity building, Serbian Customs aims to promote trade facilitation, improve revenue collection, and combat smuggling, ultimately boosting its international competitiveness. This initiative reflects Serbia's commitment to aligning with international standards and improving its customs operations.

WCO Chief Praises Uzbekistans Growing Trade Prospects

WCO Chief Praises Uzbekistans Growing Trade Prospects

In 2010, the WCO Secretary-General visited Uzbekistan, meeting with the President to focus on regional customs cooperation and economic development. As a double-landlocked country, Uzbekistan faces unique challenges but remains committed to trade liberalization, emphasizing the importance of the private sector and education. The WCO pledged its support, highlighting the role of customs in facilitating trade. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to jointly promote regional economic development. The visit underscored the importance of customs cooperation in fostering economic growth in Central Asia.

DRC Zambia Launch Tradeboosting Customs Link

DRC Zambia Launch Tradeboosting Customs Link

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia are collaborating on a customs systems interconnectivity project at the Kasumbalesa border post to enhance cross-border trade efficiency. Supported by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), the project has established a steering committee and developed a work plan. Data exchange is expected to commence in May 2025, significantly reducing trade costs and promoting regional integration. This initiative underscores the commitment of both nations to streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth through enhanced customs cooperation.

WCO Group Prioritizes Trade Facilitation in Uganda

WCO Group Prioritizes Trade Facilitation in Uganda

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) convened in Kampala, Uganda, focusing on SAFE Framework updates, Trade Facilitation Agreement implementation, and e-commerce challenges. The meeting emphasized customs-business partnerships, streamlined clearance procedures, and enhanced international cooperation, aiming to promote global trade security and efficiency. Discussions also explored regional trade cooperation possibilities within Africa. The key takeaway was the importance of collaborative efforts between customs administrations and the private sector to navigate the evolving landscape of international trade and address emerging issues related to security and facilitation.

WCO Enhances Asiapacific Supply Chains Postpandemic

WCO Enhances Asiapacific Supply Chains Postpandemic

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the COVID-19 Project to enhance member customs' capacity to respond to pandemics and disasters. The first Asia-Pacific regional workshop focused on disaster management and supply chain continuity, fostering experience sharing and cooperation. The WCO is developing related guidelines and introducing digital procedures. Future efforts will strengthen data-driven decision-making, promote digital solutions, and deepen international cooperation to build a more resilient global supply chain. The project aims to equip customs administrations with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate future disruptions effectively.

Jordan Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

Jordan Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

The Jordan Customs Valuation Workshop, jointly organized by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Customs Cooperation Fund Germany (CCF Germany), aimed to enhance the understanding and application of the Customs Valuation Agreement among Jordanian customs officials. Through theoretical learning and case studies, participants delved into key issues such as the transaction value principle and alternative valuation methods. This initiative laid the foundation for Jordan to build a fair and transparent international trade environment.

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits with Maldives Partnership

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits with Maldives Partnership

Uzbekistan and Maldives collaborated to enhance post-clearance customs audit capabilities through a virtual workshop under the World Customs Organization framework. This initiative focused on capacity building and fostering customs cooperation between the two nations. The workshop aimed to improve audit processes and efficiency, contributing to better revenue collection and trade facilitation. This collaboration exemplifies the WCO's commitment to supporting its member countries in strengthening their customs administrations and promoting effective customs practices.