WCO Tackles Ecommerce Challenges at Davos Forum

WCO Tackles Ecommerce Challenges at Davos Forum

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization attended the Davos Forum, focusing on the opportunities and challenges presented by cross-border e-commerce. Through multilateral meetings, the crucial role of customs in trade facilitation was emphasized. The Secretary General actively advocated for data sharing, technology application, and international cooperation, aiming to build a secure and efficient cross-border e-commerce ecosystem and enhance the influence of customs in global trade. The discussions highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to address evolving complexities and ensure seamless trade flows in the digital age.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Adopt Digital Tools Under WCO Guidance

Asiapacific Customs Adopt Digital Tools Under WCO Guidance

The WCO Asia-Pacific region launched a workshop on sharing experiences with disruptive technologies, focusing on the application of technologies such as blockchain, AI, and IoT in the customs field. Discussions covered public-private partnerships, data pipelines, and risk management, while emphasizing the role of international standards in achieving interoperability and paperless trade. The workshop provided valuable recommendations for the digital transformation of Asia-Pacific customs, aiming to build a secure, efficient, and intelligent global trade ecosystem. It highlighted the potential of these technologies to revolutionize customs operations and facilitate trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCOJICA Project Improves Customs Skills in East Africa

WCOJICA Project Improves Customs Skills in East Africa

The WCO/JICA Joint Project aims to enhance commodity classification capabilities of East African Customs and promote regional trade facilitation. Through Master Trainer training, case studies, and experience sharing, the project addresses commodity classification challenges, improves customs enforcement efficiency, and increases revenue collection, contributing to regional economic integration. The project commits to continuous support for capacity building in East African Customs, ensuring sustainable development. This initiative is crucial for streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth in the region by standardizing commodity identification and promoting compliance with international trade regulations.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Unveils Strategy to Streamline Global Trade

WCO Unveils Strategy to Streamline Global Trade

The WCO's strategic plan aims to enhance global trade efficiency, focusing on technology, green customs, and governance. Businesses should understand and participate in WCO activities, applying its standards and tools. This includes leveraging WCO instruments for trade facilitation, such as the Revised Kyoto Convention and the SAFE Framework. By embracing WCO initiatives, companies can streamline their customs procedures, reduce costs, and improve their competitiveness in the global market. Active engagement with the WCO is crucial for staying informed about evolving customs practices and contributing to a more efficient and secure international trade environment.

06/11/2024 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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Qatar Customs Boosts Audit System with WCO Backing

Qatar Customs Boosts Audit System with WCO Backing

The WCO assessed Qatar Customs' Post Clearance Audit (PCA) mechanism to help it comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The WCO shared its expertise and best practices during the assessment. Qatar Customs anticipates the assessment report to further enhance its PCA program and streamline trade processes. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations, contributing to smoother and more secure international trade flows for Qatar. The assessment focused on identifying areas for improvement and providing recommendations for aligning the PCA mechanism with international standards.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Thailand Sierra Leone Push Kyoto Convention Signatories Over 100

Thailand Sierra Leone Push Kyoto Convention Signatories Over 100

With Thailand and Sierra Leone joining, the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) has surpassed 100 contracting parties, marking a significant step in global trade facilitation. The convention aims to simplify and harmonize customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and improve efficiency. It works in synergy with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement, injecting new vitality into global economic development. The WCO encourages more members to join and collectively promote trade facilitation. This milestone underscores the growing global commitment to streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth through simplified customs procedures.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advances Trade Pact to Boost Global Commerce

WCO Advances Trade Pact to Boost Global Commerce

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively promotes the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) by establishing working groups, providing technical assistance, and developing guidance tools. These efforts help members improve customs management and facilitate global trade. Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya emphasized that the WCO will continue to support the TFA implementation, jointly moving towards a more efficient and transparent trade future. The WCO's commitment aims to streamline processes and reduce trade barriers for its members.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Private Sector Collaborate to Strengthen Global Supply Chains

WCO Private Sector Collaborate to Strengthen Global Supply Chains

The WCO Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) meeting and Policy Commission dialogue focused on business recovery, data strategy, and green customs. Participants emphasized the need to make trade facilitation measures permanent, leverage data-driven strategies for planning, and promote green customs to build a sustainable trade ecosystem. The discussions centered on jointly addressing global trade challenges and building more resilient supply chains. The aim is to foster a robust and adaptable global trade environment capable of weathering future disruptions.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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