Chile Peru US Push for Trade Transparency Via Internet Disclosure

Chile Peru US Push for Trade Transparency Via Internet Disclosure

A joint proposal by Chile, Peru, and the United States aims to enhance trade transparency and reduce transaction costs by using the internet to publish import and export regulations, thereby promoting trade facilitation. The proposal emphasizes the internet as a method of publication and focuses on the specific needs of developing countries. It seeks to assist them in integrating into the global trade system through technical assistance, delegation of functions, and private sector involvement, ultimately fostering an open, transparent, and efficient global trade ecosystem.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts WCO Trade Facilitation Tool

Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts WCO Trade Facilitation Tool

The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) is collaborating with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to enhance trade facilitation capabilities through the WCO's Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM). This initiative aims to assess customs performance, optimize operations, and promote economic development. The GRA is focusing on measures such as the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program and Coordinated Border Management (CBM) to align with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and provide a model for other developing countries. The PMM will help identify areas for improvement and track progress towards achieving trade facilitation goals.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Peru Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked Strategy

Peru Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked Strategy

The WCO assists Peruvian Customs in strategic planning, enhancing efficiency and services, and optimizing the trade environment. Peru's experience offers valuable lessons for developing countries. This collaboration focuses on streamlining customs procedures, reducing trade costs, and improving overall competitiveness. The strategic plan aims to modernize customs operations, promote compliance, and foster a more transparent and predictable trade regime. By implementing best practices and leveraging technology, Peruvian Customs seeks to facilitate legitimate trade while effectively combating illicit activities. The success of this initiative highlights the importance of international cooperation in promoting trade facilitation and economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mozambique Tightens Customs to Curb Hazardous Waste Smuggling

Mozambique Tightens Customs to Curb Hazardous Waste Smuggling

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with organizations like the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), held a workshop in Mozambique to enhance customs officers' awareness of the Basel Convention and the Montreal Protocol. This initiative aims to strengthen border control of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances. The activity is part of the Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, which supports developing countries' customs administrations in improving their environmental capabilities to address global environmental challenges collectively. The program focuses on building capacity for effective implementation and enforcement of relevant environmental agreements.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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HS Convention at 25 Data Shapes Global Trades Future

HS Convention at 25 Data Shapes Global Trades Future

The World Customs Organization (WCO) celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Harmonized System Convention, highlighting the HS's central role and future development in international trade. As a universal language for global trade, the HS simplifies trade processes and enhances efficiency. The WCO is actively conducting strategic reviews to ensure the HS adapts to new trade patterns and technological advancements. It also encourages greater participation from developing countries in HS-related activities, fostering a more inclusive and responsive global trade environment. This ensures the HS remains relevant and effective in facilitating international commerce.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Boosts Project Management for Modernization

Gambia Revenue Authority Boosts Project Management for Modernization

The Gambia Revenue Authority, with support from the WCO-Sweden Cooperation Programme (OMD-MADAO), has successfully developed a project management methodology to improve the efficiency of reform and modernization projects. This methodology covers all phases of the project lifecycle and is expected to be officially approved and fully implemented in September. It aims to establish an efficient and standardized project management system within the Gambia Revenue Authority and serve as a model for other developing countries. The initiative will enhance the GRA's ability to effectively manage and execute strategic projects.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Supports Benin Customs in Streamlining Disaster Relief Clearance

WCO Supports Benin Customs in Streamlining Disaster Relief Clearance

The World Trade Organization (WTO) assisted Benin Customs in developing standard operating procedures for clearing natural disaster relief goods. Through unified import procedures, accelerated clearance processes, expert experience sharing, and practical exercises, the project aims to establish an efficient and convenient customs clearance mechanism for disaster relief supplies. This initiative not only enhances Benin Customs' disaster response capabilities but also provides valuable lessons for other countries, contributing to the construction of a global disaster relief system. The focus is on speed and efficiency in getting aid to those who need it most.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kenya Enhances Customs Training Via WCO Elearning Platform

Kenya Enhances Customs Training Via WCO Elearning Platform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Kenya Regional Training Centre (CRF) in introducing e-learning, aiming to enhance the professional capabilities and efficiency of Kenyan customs officers. This initiative seeks to improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, and enhance international competitiveness. This effort not only boosts Kenya's own capabilities but also provides valuable lessons for other developing countries, contributing to a more efficient, convenient, and secure global trade environment. The e-learning model is expected to significantly improve knowledge dissemination and skills development within the Kenyan customs administration.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Global Customs Disaster Response Initiative

WCO Launches Global Customs Disaster Response Initiative

The WCO's (World Customs Organization) COVID-19 Project held its first Asia-Pacific regional seminar, focusing on disaster management and supply chain continuity. Customs representatives from various countries gathered to share experiences and discuss cooperation, aiming to enhance customs' ability to respond to pandemics and similar emergencies and ensure global supply chain stability. The WCO is actively developing guidelines and promoting digital transformation within customs to build a more resilient global supply chain. The seminar highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in navigating the challenges posed by global crises.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uganda US Ease Trade Barriers by Dropping Consular Rules

Uganda US Ease Trade Barriers by Dropping Consular Rules

In 2006, Uganda and the United States jointly submitted a proposal to the WTO to eliminate consular authentication requirements related to trade in goods. The proposal explicitly prohibits requiring consular transactions, defines the specific content of such transactions, and emphasizes the importance of technical assistance and capacity building to help developing countries adapt to the trade environment after the elimination of consular authentication. This initiative aims to reduce trade costs, shorten delivery times, and promote trade growth, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in international trade.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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