WCO Expertise France Boost Gender Equality in African Tax Agencies

WCO Expertise France Boost Gender Equality in African Tax Agencies

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Expertise France jointly organized a gender equality workshop in Côte d'Ivoire. The workshop aimed to raise awareness of gender equality among customs and tax officials in West and Central Africa. Practical tools, such as the Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT), were introduced. The event also facilitated the exchange of experiences between countries, laying the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive customs and tax environment. The initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in promoting gender equality within customs and taxation sectors.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Customs Modernizes HR to Enhance West African Trade

Burkina Faso Customs Modernizes HR to Enhance West African Trade

Burkina Faso Customs, with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), has officially adopted human resource tools such as a competency framework and job catalogue to enhance talent management and organizational effectiveness. This initiative, a key outcome of the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, will help Burkina Faso Customs achieve its organizational goals, facilitate trade, and promote economic development in the West African region. The implementation aims to modernize HR practices and build a skilled workforce capable of meeting the challenges of international trade and customs administration.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Londolozi Airport Opens Boosting Access to South African Wilderness

New Londolozi Airport Opens Boosting Access to South African Wilderness

Londolozi Airport (LDZ/FALD) serves as a gateway to premier private game reserves in South Africa. Strategically located, the airport caters to smaller aircraft and private charters, providing convenient access for tourists and boosting local tourism and economic growth. Understanding the airport information is beneficial for travelers planning a visit to Londolozi. It offers a seamless transition to the luxurious safari experiences the region is known for, avoiding long drives and maximizing valuable vacation time. The airport plays a crucial role in facilitating access to this exclusive destination.

01/20/2026 Airport Codes
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WCO Trains African Customs on Gender Equality for Better Teams

WCO Trains African Customs on Gender Equality for Better Teams

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the Finnish ESA Project II, held a workshop in Africa to enhance the skills of customs administrations in gender equality. The workshop focused on the application of WCO tools, promoted regional cooperation, and conducted an assessment of Mauritius Customs. The aim is to build more inclusive and diverse customs teams, improve operational efficiency, and enhance service quality. This initiative contributes to creating a more equitable and effective customs environment across the region.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West and Central African Customs Chiefs Back Continental Free Trade

West and Central African Customs Chiefs Back Continental Free Trade

The meeting of heads of customs from West and Central Africa focused on the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The World Customs Organization reaffirmed its support, emphasizing the critical role of customs departments and the importance of infrastructure. Discussions also covered addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic, combating counterfeit medicines and vaccines, and strengthening capacity building and regional cooperation. These efforts aim to contribute to regional economic development and the prosperity of the African continent. The importance of efficient customs procedures for the AfCFTA's success was highlighted.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chinamiddle East Sea Freight Costs Explained

Chinamiddle East Sea Freight Costs Explained

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the sea freight costs for the Middle East DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) line. It details the various factors influencing freight rates, such as cargo characteristics, transportation methods, destination ports, and market conditions. Furthermore, it offers practical cost estimation methods to help businesses accurately control logistics costs and enhance their trade competitiveness. The aim is to provide businesses with the knowledge to better manage their shipping expenses to the Middle East.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Middle East Tensions Escalate: Freight Market Volatile

Middle East Tensions Escalate: Freight Market Volatile

Tensions in the Middle East have sharply escalated due to the potential U.S. military strikes on Iran. The freight market has reacted swiftly, with significant increases in VLCC and LR2 freight rates, alongside soaring insurance costs. The international community urges for a peaceful resolution to the conflict to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.

06/23/2025 Logistics
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WCO Aids Niger Customs in Trade System Upgrade for Africa

WCO Aids Niger Customs in Trade System Upgrade for Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with EU funding, launched the project "Harmonized Commodity Classification Based on WCO Standards to Strengthen African Trade," with Niger as one of the first beneficiary countries. WCO experts assessed Niger Customs to enhance its commodity classification and customs valuation capabilities, unify commodity classification standards, and facilitate African trade. This project will provide valuable experience for other African countries, jointly building a new landscape for African trade.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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IATA Names Peter Chilufya Chikumba Regional Director for Africa

IATA Names Peter Chilufya Chikumba Regional Director for Africa

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Peter Chikuumba as its Area Manager for Africa, based in Nairobi. This appointment aims to strengthen collaboration with African aviation bodies and address the challenges facing the African aviation industry. Chikuumba brings extensive industry experience to the role and will focus on ensuring the robust development of African aviation, promoting its safety, efficiency, and sustainability. This appointment reflects IATA's strategic emphasis on the growing importance of the African market.

01/26/2026 Airlines
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