WCO Launches Ecommerce Framework to Boost African Digital Trade

WCO Launches Ecommerce Framework to Boost African Digital Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted an online workshop for Eastern, Southern, Western, and Central Africa, focusing on the implementation of the E-Commerce Framework of Standards (E-Commerce FoS). By interpreting the 15 standards and sharing practical examples, the workshop aimed to help African customs seize digital trade opportunities, address challenges, and promote the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce. This initiative seeks to inject new vitality into the African economy by facilitating smoother and more efficient online trade processes across the continent.

WCO Belgian Customs Academy Expand African Customs Training Partnership

WCO Belgian Customs Academy Expand African Customs Training Partnership

Customs officials from French-speaking African countries visited the WCO headquarters during their training at the Belgian Customs Academy. They participated in presentations on intellectual property, and health & safety projects. The WCO's long-standing collaboration with the Belgian Customs Academy significantly contributes to customs capacity building in Africa through tailored training programs. This partnership supports economic prosperity and social development across the African continent.

WCO Backs African Customs Agencies to Strengthen Green Trade

WCO Backs African Customs Agencies to Strengthen Green Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme and the Basel Convention Secretariat, conducted workshops in Kenya and Tanzania. These workshops aimed to enhance the knowledge and enforcement capabilities of the two countries' customs departments regarding the Basel Convention and the Montreal Protocol. This initiative is part of the Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, designed to promote sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa and strengthen the role of customs in environmental protection. The workshops focused on identifying and intercepting illegal shipments of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances.

EUWCO Project Boosts African Free Trade with Rules Harmonization

EUWCO Project Boosts African Free Trade with Rules Harmonization

The EU-WTO Rules of Origin Africa Programme will significantly contribute to finalizing the AfCFTA's Rules of Origin by 2025. This initiative aims to harmonize key origin systems across Africa, fostering a unified approach to trade regulations. By promoting a community of practice focused on origin-related issues, the project supports the broader goal of African economic integration. Ultimately, streamlining and standardizing Rules of Origin will reduce trade barriers and facilitate smoother trade flows within the AfCFTA, boosting economic growth and development across the continent.

Manakara Port Boosts Trade in Southeastern Madagascar

Manakara Port Boosts Trade in Southeastern Madagascar

Manakara Port is an important barge port on the southeastern coast of Madagascar. Connected to the inland via the Pangalanes Canal and railway, it serves as a distribution center for goods like rice and coffee. Although small in size, its convenient land and water transportation, combined with efficient loading and unloading capabilities, make it a significant option for expanding into the East African market. Its strategic location and accessibility offer a viable alternative for regional trade despite its limited infrastructure.

Togos Lom Port Emerges As Key West African Trade Hub

Togos Lom Port Emerges As Key West African Trade Hub

This article provides an in-depth analysis of Lomé Port as a key trade hub in West Africa, covering critical aspects such as its geographical location, annual throughput, shipping routes, customs processes, and logistics services. It also explores the future development potential of the port, offering valuable insights for businesses looking to optimize their supply chains.