West Africa Customs Training Thrives Amid Pandemic Challenges

West Africa Customs Training Thrives Amid Pandemic Challenges

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) joint “Mentoring Training Programme” (MTP) has made significant progress in West Africa. Overcoming the impact of the pandemic through innovative models such as virtual working groups, the program successfully enhanced the capacity of customs officers in West African countries in risk management and intelligence analysis, contributing to regional trade security and economic development. The success of this program provides a valuable reference for capacity building in other developing countries.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Alliance Forms to Fight Fake Sports Goods

Global Alliance Forms to Fight Fake Sports Goods

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in combating counterfeit goods, particularly in the sporting goods sector. This collaboration aims to enhance the capacity of customs officials to identify counterfeit products through the promotion of the IPM platform, improved information exchange, and training programs. The initiative seeks to protect consumer rights and maintain market order by preventing the trade of fake sports equipment and other goods.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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MENA Adopts Digital Tech for Smarter Border Control

MENA Adopts Digital Tech for Smarter Border Control

The WCO's SMART Borders workshop in Riyadh, focusing on the MENA region, highlighted the application of cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain in customs processes. Through WCO best practice sharing and guidance from ZATCA, participants explored how to leverage technology to enhance border management efficiency, injecting new momentum into the MENA region's digital transformation. The event fostered discussions on optimizing customs procedures and improving security through innovative digital solutions, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and secure trade environment within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Upgrades Clikc Platform with Mobile Learning for Customs Officials

WCO Upgrades Clikc Platform with Mobile Learning for Customs Officials

The WCO CLiKC! e-learning platform has been upgraded with a new website design and mobile application, supporting both iOS and Android. The initial launch includes 25 mobile-optimized courses and videos, featuring offline learning capabilities. This upgrade aims to enhance the professional skills of customs officials worldwide, promote knowledge sharing, support capacity building, and contribute to the security and facilitation of global trade. It provides convenient access to training materials anytime, anywhere, fostering continuous learning and development within the customs community.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Central Asia Road Transport for Trade Growth

WCO Enhances Central Asia Road Transport for Trade Growth

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization emphasized the role of road transport in improving border 'soft infrastructure' at the International Road Transport Conference. He commended Central Asian countries for joining the revised Kyoto Convention. He called for strengthened public-private partnerships to enhance transport connectivity and contribute to the prosperity and development of the Central Asian region. This collaboration aims to streamline customs procedures and facilitate trade, ultimately boosting economic growth and regional integration through efficient and reliable road transport networks.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cape Verde Customs Modernizes with WCO Support

Cape Verde Customs Modernizes with WCO Support

The WCO, through the WACAM project, is assisting Cape Verde Customs in optimizing customs clearance procedures. A Time Release Study (TRS) was conducted to improve trade efficiency, reduce costs, and attract investment. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks in the clearance process and provide recommendations for streamlining procedures. This initiative supports Cape Verde's efforts to enhance its competitiveness and integrate more effectively into the global trading system. The focus is on faster release times, which directly benefits businesses and promotes economic growth.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Shipping Wood Packaging Fumigation Rules Explained

Global Shipping Wood Packaging Fumigation Rules Explained

This article provides an in-depth analysis of compliance requirements for wood packaging fumigation in international maritime shipping. It focuses on explaining the fumigation operation process, the application of the IPPC mark, the retention of fumigation certificates, and specific regulations for different countries/regions. The aim is to help exporters avoid customs clearance risks caused by wood packaging issues and ensure smooth customs clearance of goods. It covers essential aspects of fumigation standards and procedures to facilitate international trade compliance.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Importers Face Fines Without Proper ISF Filing

US Importers Face Fines Without Proper ISF Filing

Understanding the Importer Security Filing (ISF) is crucial for every importer, as it is an essential document for ensuring smooth customs clearance and avoiding hefty fines. By mastering the detailed information required for the ISF and ensuring timely submissions, your trade transactions will proceed more smoothly.

08/08/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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St Lucia Aims to Enhance Trade Via AEO Program

St Lucia Aims to Enhance Trade Via AEO Program

Saint Lucia initiated its AEO program exploration in 2009, aiming to simplify customs procedures and enhance business competitiveness by certifying secure and reliable trade operators. A workshop shared Jamaica's experience, emphasizing the importance of swift action. While the private sector expressed concerns, it pledged support. AEO certification is a global trend, and Saint Lucia needs to overcome challenges and seize opportunities to achieve trade facilitation and economic development. The program seeks to streamline processes and improve efficiency for authorized economic operators, fostering a more competitive and attractive trade environment.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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