WCO Enhances Trade and Customs Modernization in Namibia

WCO Enhances Trade and Customs Modernization in Namibia

At the request of Namibian Customs, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment to support the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through in-depth research and tailored recommendations, the WCO aims to help Namibian Customs streamline processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen cooperation with other development partners. The ultimate goal is to achieve customs modernization and promote economic growth in Namibia. This initiative focuses on identifying areas for improvement and providing practical guidance for enhancing trade facilitation measures.

Gambia Revenue Authority Launches Strategic Management Dashboard

Gambia Revenue Authority Launches Strategic Management Dashboard

With support from the World Customs Organization, the Gambia Revenue Authority has developed a strategic dashboard. This dashboard aims to improve management effectiveness in areas such as tax collection and trade facilitation through the monitoring and analysis of key performance indicators (KPIs). It will provide management with a comprehensive overview of performance, enabling them to make more informed decisions, seize opportunities, and address challenges, ultimately contributing to Gambia's economic development. The dashboard is expected to enhance transparency and accountability within the revenue authority.

UK WCO Extend Trade Facilitation for Developing Nations

UK WCO Extend Trade Facilitation for Developing Nations

UK Customs and the World Customs Organization have extended their trade facilitation cooperation project, investing £1.6 million to support Commonwealth developing countries in implementing the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to enhance customs capabilities, promote inter-agency cooperation, and establish sustainable mechanisms. The project will help developing countries integrate into the global trading system, fostering economic growth. The extended partnership will focus on building long-term capacity and ensuring the benefits of trade facilitation are realized by participating nations.

Ghanas Takoradi Port Berths Record 300000ton Vessel

Ghanas Takoradi Port Berths Record 300000ton Vessel

Ghana's Takoradi Port is set to receive the 'CBS Years', a 300,000-tonne bulk carrier, the largest ever in West Africa. This marks a new era for Ghana's maritime industry, expected to significantly boost bulk cargo exports, increase export revenue, and drive economic growth. Comprehensive technical and operational preparations, including personnel training and risk assessments, have been undertaken to ensure safe berthing and cargo handling. This upgrade demonstrates Ghana's commitment to modernizing its port infrastructure and facilitating increased trade flows.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Eswatini Overhauls HR to Improve Trade Facilitation

Eswatini Overhauls HR to Improve Trade Facilitation

Eswatini is addressing trade facilitation challenges by reforming its human resource management system. With WCO support, the SRA conducted a 'People Development Diagnostic' to assess capacity gaps and committed to adopting competency-based management. By building competency models, optimizing training programs, improving performance management, and planning career development, Eswatini aims to enhance customs efficiency and promote economic development. This initiative serves as a valuable example for other developing countries seeking to modernize their customs operations and leverage human capital for improved trade outcomes.

WCO Belgian Customs Academy Train African Officials

WCO Belgian Customs Academy Train African Officials

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Belgian Customs School (BCS) are deepening their collaboration to provide tailored training for customs officials from French-speaking African countries. This includes visits to the WCO headquarters and upgraded BCS courses, aiming to enhance their professional capabilities. This initiative intends to better serve African economic development and provide a model for global customs cooperation. The partnership underscores the commitment to strengthening customs administrations in Africa and fostering a more efficient and effective global trade environment.

Lesotho Revenue Authority Advances Operational Excellence in Strategic Retreat

Lesotho Revenue Authority Advances Operational Excellence in Strategic Retreat

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) successfully held a high-level strategic retreat to clarify strategic priorities, enhance leadership, and accelerate reform and modernization. The World Customs Organization, the World Bank, and the Finnish Customs Cooperation Fund provided support. The retreat strengthened the management team's cohesion and provided clear direction for the organization's future development. Key focus areas included improving tax administration, fostering effective leadership, and driving strategic growth initiatives to enhance the LRA's overall performance and contribution to Lesotho's economic development.

Customs Agencies Enhance Efficiency Via SECOWCO Partnership

Customs Agencies Enhance Efficiency Via SECOWCO Partnership

The SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) aims to improve customs and tax administration in developing countries. Through training courses and capacity building initiatives, the GTFP helps managers master the latest management concepts and techniques to promote trade facilitation and support economic development. The program has supported customs and tax officials in numerous countries to enhance their capabilities, contributing to a more open and prosperous international trading system. This includes providing resources and expertise to modernize procedures and improve efficiency.

Burkina Faso Boosts Customs with Wcobacked Reforms

Burkina Faso Boosts Customs with Wcobacked Reforms

With support from the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Burkina Faso to assist the country in implementing the revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) and the SAFE Framework. The workshop focused on the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, providing practical guidance on the RKC and AEO for customs officials and private sector representatives of Burkina Faso. It also helped develop action plans to improve customs administration and promote international trade development in Burkina Faso.

WCO OECD Align Customs and Transfer Pricing to Boost Trade

WCO OECD Align Customs and Transfer Pricing to Boost Trade

A joint workshop by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) aimed to enhance the expertise of customs and tax authorities in customs valuation and transfer pricing. It promoted cooperation to resolve tax disputes and trade frictions arising from valuation differences. The workshop included rule learning, practical exchanges, and provided WCO guidelines as reference. Future efforts will focus on deepening collaboration to build a fair trade environment by addressing valuation challenges and fostering international cooperation.