WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is upgrading the PICARD Professional Standards (PS) to adapt to the evolving global trade landscape. The updated standards will encompass key areas such as public-private sector cooperation, customs and tax function integration, and coordinated border management. It will also address emerging trends, security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. The WCO invites stakeholders to participate in capacity building initiatives to jointly promote global customs development. This collaborative effort aims to enhance customs efficiency and effectiveness worldwide.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Businesses Collaborate to Counter Global Trade Protectionism

WCO Businesses Collaborate to Counter Global Trade Protectionism

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) convened to discuss addressing trade protectionism, promoting trade facilitation, and regulating e-commerce. The meeting emphasized strengthening cooperation between customs and the private sector to jointly tackle global trade challenges and support economic and social development. Key topics included streamlining customs procedures, enhancing data exchange, and fostering a more predictable and transparent trading environment. The discussions highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in navigating the evolving landscape of international trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

The 28th SAFE Working Group meeting focused on the review and implementation monitoring of the SAFE Framework, emphasizing customs-private sector cooperation and optimizing questionnaires. Key topics included data strategy, green customs initiatives, promotion of AEO validation courses, revision of work plans, and extension of the review cycle. Enhanced customs cooperation with aviation and port sectors was also highlighted. The meeting injected new momentum into global trade security cooperation, foreshadowing a future of safer, more efficient, and sustainable global trade systems.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Complete Guide to Customs Clearance for Importing Lighting Fixtures: Processes, Costs, and Considerations

Complete Guide to Customs Clearance for Importing Lighting Fixtures: Processes, Costs, and Considerations

This article provides a detailed analysis of the customs clearance process for importing lighting fixtures, including the required materials and costs. It highlights the importance of 3C certification and information on different tax rates for lighting fixtures. The article also offers professional association contacts and resources to help businesses smoothly navigate the import customs clearance process.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Key Considerations for Importing Used Equipment

Key Considerations for Importing Used Equipment

When importing complete sets of mechanical equipment, it is essential to pay attention to tariffs and value-added tax rates, ensuring the accuracy of the declared price and customs codes. Additionally, consistency in nameplate information and compliance with inspection procedures is crucial. After assembly and debugging at the usage location, passing customs acceptance is required before production can commence.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Rwanda Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Upgrade

Rwanda Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Upgrade

The WCO held a customs valuation workshop in Rwanda to enhance the capabilities of tax authority officials. The workshop covered topics such as the WTO Valuation Agreement and transfer pricing. The initiative aims to promote trade development by improving understanding and application of customs valuation principles, ultimately facilitating smoother and more efficient trade processes for Rwanda.

01/08/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Qingdao Customs: Significant Improvement in Customs Efficiency for Exports to South Korea

Qingdao Customs: Significant Improvement in Customs Efficiency for Exports to South Korea

Data from Qingdao Customs shows a significant improvement in customs clearance efficiency for foreign trade enterprises dealing with South Korea, with sea freight times reduced by 34.78% and air freight times increased by 71.43%. This progress is driven by policy benefits and technological innovation, particularly the AEO mutual recognition policy and the consolidated tax reform. Additionally, modern technologies such as the Internet of Things have greatly enhanced customs efficiency, significantly lowering business costs.

07/21/2025 Logistics
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Guide to Streamlining Customs Clearance for International Shipping

Guide to Streamlining Customs Clearance for International Shipping

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the customs clearance process at international sea freight destination ports. It covers key steps such as document conversion, electronic declaration, customs inspection, and tax payment. Furthermore, it analyzes common reasons for clearance delays and corresponding strategies. The importance of matching documents with goods and compliant declarations is emphasized. The aim is to help businesses efficiently complete customs clearance, reduce costs, and ensure the smooth progress of international trade.

01/08/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked DIAN Reform

Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked DIAN Reform

The WCO supported the Colombian National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) in its strategic planning efforts. Workshops were conducted to enhance the strategic development capabilities of DIAN officials. Technical assistance was provided in areas such as risk management and post-clearance audit. The aim was to improve the efficiency and transparency of Colombian customs, promote economic growth, and build a modern customs system. This initiative strengthens DIAN's capacity to effectively manage trade and contribute to Colombia's economic development by streamlining customs procedures and ensuring compliance.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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