Tunisias Sfax Port Expands North African Trade Links

Tunisias Sfax Port Expands North African Trade Links

Sfax Port is a vital maritime hub in Tunisia, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the African continent. The port boasts well-developed facilities, offering comprehensive cargo handling, warehousing, and vessel services. With its strategic location and efficient operations, Sfax Port serves as an ideal gateway to access the North African market. Its modern infrastructure and experienced personnel ensure smooth and reliable logistics for businesses looking to expand their reach in the region.

09/29/2025 Port Encyclopedia
Read More
African Trade Requires ECTN for Smooth Customs Clearance

African Trade Requires ECTN for Smooth Customs Clearance

The Electronic Cargo Tracking Number (ECTN No.) is a crucial document required for exports to African countries to ensure smooth customs clearance. Many African nations, including Nigeria, Senegal, and Guinea, mandate obtaining this number before shipment to avoid customs issues and fines. Shippers should inquire about the relevant regulations from the consignee during the application process. Understanding the importance of this registration significantly enhances the efficiency of international trade.

07/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
African Customs Agencies Boost Trade and Capacity Efforts

African Customs Agencies Boost Trade and Capacity Efforts

The 19th meeting of the Customs Management Council of the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) region focused on trade facilitation and capacity building. Emphasis was placed on the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Discussions covered regional cooperation, financial management, and the appointment of the WCO Director. The meeting aimed to promote African trade growth and regional economic integration through innovative customs procedures. Furthermore, the goal was to enhance customs efficiency and risk management capabilities within the ESA region.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with EU funding, held a Technical and Operational Advisor (TOA) accreditation workshop for French-speaking African countries. The aim was to enhance customs officials' skills in areas like commodity classification, origin, and valuation. Through pre-accreditation and field visit assessments, the project seeks to expand the pool of experts and facilitate regional trade. Quantitative evaluation and continuous improvement are crucial for the project's success, contributing to the upgrading of African trade. The program ultimately aims to streamline customs procedures and boost economic development within the region.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Djibouti Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Enhance African Trade

Djibouti Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Enhance African Trade

With support from the World Customs Organization and the European Union, Djibouti is updating its national tariff system to align with the international standard Harmonized System (HS). This initiative aims to enhance trade facilitation, increase fiscal revenue, improve international competitiveness, and promote sustainable development, ultimately positioning Djibouti as a new trade hub in Africa. The modernization of the tariff system is expected to streamline customs procedures and reduce trade barriers, contributing to economic growth and regional integration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Bamako Airport Expansion Elevates Malis West African Trade Role

Bamako Airport Expansion Elevates Malis West African Trade Role

Bamako Airport serves as a vital aviation hub for Mali's capital. Recent upgrades have significantly enhanced its operational capacity. Several international airlines operate scheduled passenger and cargo flights, facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. This activity injects new vitality into the local economy and strengthens Mali's connection to the rest of the world. The airport's strategic location positions it as a key gateway within West Africa.

09/26/2025 Airport Codes
Read More
Ghanas Customs Reforms Boost Women in West African Trade

Ghanas Customs Reforms Boost Women in West African Trade

The World Customs Organization partnered with the Ghana Revenue Authority on a Gender Equality and Diversity project, empowering female traders in Ghana. The project included stakeholder meetings with SMEs and small traders, aiming to simplify trade procedures, provide information support, and promote gender equality. The outcomes of these meetings will be used to improve customs services and create a more equitable trading environment for women traders. This initiative seeks to address barriers faced by women in trade and foster inclusive economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
African Customs Officials Train at WCO As Trade Grows

African Customs Officials Train at WCO As Trade Grows

The World Customs Organization (WCO) hosted a study visit for customs experts from Portuguese-speaking African countries, aiming to enhance their application of the Harmonized System (HS) and promote regional trade development. The activities included participation in the HS Committee (HSC) meeting, meetings with representatives of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), and planned capacity-building workshops to strengthen tariff classification and customs cooperation. The visit focused on improving skills and fostering collaboration to facilitate trade and ensure accurate classification practices within the region.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
African Customs Labs Adopt Asiapacific Methods to Boost Trade

African Customs Labs Adopt Asiapacific Methods to Boost Trade

African customs laboratory leaders visited the Asia-Pacific region to learn from best practices and enhance their capabilities. Through laboratory visits and experience sharing, the African representatives gained in-depth understanding of the operational models, technological applications, and management methods of regional customs laboratories in the Asia-Pacific. This activity promoted capacity building for African customs laboratories and laid the foundation for regional cooperation, contributing to African trade development and economic prosperity. The visit focused on practical knowledge transfer and establishing future collaborative efforts.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
EUWCO Project Supports African Free Trade with Harmonized Rules

EUWCO Project Supports African Free Trade with Harmonized Rules

The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme aims to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by 2025. It focuses on finalizing the rules of origin, harmonizing key African origin regimes, and developing a community of practice for rules of origin. This initiative is expected to lay the groundwork for economic prosperity in Africa by facilitating trade and ensuring the smooth implementation of the AfCFTA agreement. The program will contribute to a more predictable and transparent trade environment across the continent.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More