WCOJICA Initiative Strengthens Customs Trade in East and Southern Africa

WCOJICA Initiative Strengthens Customs Trade in East and Southern Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), successfully held the 3rd Working Group Activity of the Advanced Rules of Origin Trainers Project for the East and Southern Africa region in Zambia. This project aims to cultivate qualified customs trainers, enhance regional customs capacity, and facilitate the smooth implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Through systematic training and curriculum development, the project will provide a solid foundation of skilled personnel for regional trade facilitation.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Summit Stresses Trade Resilience Cooperation

Asiapacific Customs Summit Stresses Trade Resilience Cooperation

The 25th WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Conference successfully concluded in Sydney, focusing on the theme of 'Customs Engaging Purposefully with Traditional and New Partners,' emphasizing international supply chain resilience. The conference reviewed the implementation of the regional strategic plan, approved a new strategic plan, endorsed a draft WCO resolution supporting enhanced Customs-industry resilience, and approved the establishment of a WCO Regional Training Center in Cambodia. This marks a new chapter for customs cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Leaders Urge Cooperation to Address Crises

Global Leaders Urge Cooperation to Address Crises

The World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized the critical importance of international cooperation in the face of global crises at an international organization annual meeting. Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya highlighted the WCO's measures to ensure smooth cargo flow during the pandemic, emphasizing the inclusiveness and flexibility of international instruments. He called for strengthening cooperation platforms to transform challenges into opportunities. The WCO's efforts demonstrate the vital role of collaboration in navigating global disruptions and fostering resilience in international trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Network Boosts Cooperation During Pandemic

Global Customs Network Boosts Cooperation During Pandemic

The Regional Intelligence Liaison Office (RILO) network held its second virtual meeting to strengthen international cooperation during the pandemic. The meeting highlighted RILO's crucial role in data quality and combating illegal wildlife trade. Participants also discussed involvement in WCO meetings and preparations for the global RILO conference. Facing global challenges, the RILO network will continue to enhance cooperation and capabilities to contribute to global trade security and economic development. The focus remains on improving information sharing and coordinated efforts to address evolving threats.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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West and Central Africa Boost Customs Cooperation

West and Central Africa Boost Customs Cooperation

The 2015 Liaison Office Meeting on Customs Capacity Building in West and Central Africa was held in Senegal, focusing on regional customs reform and capacity enhancement. The meeting reviewed the implementation of the strategic plan, initiated the identification of assistance needs, promoted a regional capacity-building market, and discussed key projects. Through mutual cooperation and field visits, the aim was to improve regional customs efficiency, facilitate trade, and safeguard the economic development of West and Central Africa. The meeting emphasized collaboration to strengthen customs operations and regional integration.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China Vows Support for Multilateralism Global Cooperation

China Vows Support for Multilateralism Global Cooperation

China reaffirmed its unwavering support for multilateralism at the United Nations, emphasizing the importance of upholding the UN's authority. China called for a coordinated approach to advancing the three pillars of peace, development, and human rights, prioritizing development. China supports UN reform aimed at building a more just and equitable global governance system to jointly address global challenges and build a community of shared future for mankind. This commitment underscores China's dedication to international cooperation and a more inclusive and effective global order.

01/28/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chinaarab Trade Zone Project Promotes Economic Cooperation

Chinaarab Trade Zone Project Promotes Economic Cooperation

The China-Arab Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Zone will host a business cooperation project promotion conference on September 18, 2025, aiming to deepen China-Arab strategic cooperation and seize the opportunities of the Belt and Road Initiative. The event will showcase the achievements of the Demonstration Zone, promote high-quality projects, and build an efficient matchmaking platform to help enterprises expand into the Middle East market and achieve mutual benefit and win-win results.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Africa Enhances Customs Oversight with Audit Training Completion

East Africa Enhances Customs Oversight with Audit Training Completion

The WCO and JICA's joint "Master Trainer Programme" successfully concluded in East Africa, training 18 post-clearance audit experts and developing regional training materials. This initiative aims to enhance customs audit capabilities in East Africa, facilitating trade, combating smuggling, and safeguarding economic security. The project is expected to inject new momentum into regional development by strengthening customs administration and promoting efficient trade practices within the East African Community.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Belgium WCO Train Francophone Africa to Boost Customs Capacity

Belgium WCO Train Francophone Africa to Boost Customs Capacity

The Belgian Customs Academy provides training for customs officers from Francophone African countries, covering customs management, trade facilitation, and international cooperation. Participants visited the WCO headquarters to gain a deeper understanding of international customs cooperation mechanisms. This training aims to improve customs management in Africa, promote regional trade development, and explore future opportunities for deepening international cooperation to continuously enhance African customs capabilities. The program emphasizes practical skills and knowledge transfer to foster efficient and effective customs operations across the region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Hungary Conference Explores Tax and Customs Cooperation Reforms

Hungary Conference Explores Tax and Customs Cooperation Reforms

A tax and customs cooperation conference held in Hungary focused on improving the synergistic efficiency of tax and customs departments. The World Customs Organization emphasized the importance of data sharing, joint risk management, and capacity building. The conference also commemorated Hungarian customs pioneers and explored future cooperation trends towards intelligence and synergy, aiming to build a more prosperous and secure international trade environment. The discussions highlighted the need for streamlined processes and enhanced collaboration to facilitate legitimate trade while combating illicit activities.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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