WCO Issues Trade Recovery Guidance Amid Global Disruptions

WCO Issues Trade Recovery Guidance Amid Global Disruptions

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the World Customs Organization's (WCO) 'Trade Recovery Guidelines,' designed to assist national customs administrations in swiftly and efficiently restoring international cargo movement following trade disruptions. It elaborates on the concept of trade recovery, the significance of the SAFE Framework, and the guidelines' three pillars: Action Plan, Customs Actions, and Communication. The article emphasizes the crucial role of international cooperation and public-private partnerships in effectively addressing trade disruptions and ensuring supply chain resilience.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Forum Seeks to Modernize Global Customs Practices

WCO Forum Seeks to Modernize Global Customs Practices

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held the inaugural Customs Work Organization Forum (CWOF), aiming to reshape the paradigm of customs work. The meeting gathered global experts to discuss key areas such as work settings, workplace design, and workforce management. The forum adopted its terms of reference and shared survey findings. The WCO plans to continue hosting meetings, conducting case studies, and developing best practice guidelines to support customs administrations in addressing the challenges of the 'new normal'.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Strengthens Risk Management for Middle Corridor Trade in Central Asia Caucasus

WCO Strengthens Risk Management for Middle Corridor Trade in Central Asia Caucasus

The WCO and JICA collaborated to enhance customs risk management capabilities in the Central Asia and Caucasus region. A training program was held in Georgia to develop Master Trainers, aiming to ensure the smooth operation of the 'Middle Corridor'. This initiative focuses on strengthening regional customs expertise and facilitating efficient trade flows along this crucial trade route. The program supports improved risk assessment and management practices within customs administrations, contributing to secure and efficient border procedures.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Advocates Gender Equality to Strengthen Global Trade

WCO Advocates Gender Equality to Strengthen Global Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) promotes customs efficiency, security, and prosperity through Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (GED). The 5th WCO Global Conference on Gender Equality and Diversity Network focused on disability inclusion and partnerships, emphasizing the importance of trade-enabling women. The WCO supports its members through the GEOAT tool, training packages, and a pool of experts. It also advocates for enhanced cooperation to collectively build a more equitable and efficient customs system. This collaborative approach aims to foster a customs environment that is both effective and inclusive for all stakeholders.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
ASEAN AEO Certification Boosts Smes in Global Trade

ASEAN AEO Certification Boosts Smes in Global Trade

A joint report by the World Customs Organization, World Trade Organization, and International Chamber of Commerce highlights the importance of optimizing AEO programs to lower barriers for SMEs, provide differentiated services, enhance promotion, and strengthen international cooperation. This aims to empower SMEs, achieve more inclusive global trade growth, and shares practical experiences from both businesses and customs administrations. The report emphasizes streamlining processes and offering tailored support to facilitate SME participation in global trade through the AEO framework.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Updates price Actually Paid Definition to Boost Trade Compliance

WCO Updates price Actually Paid Definition to Boost Trade Compliance

The new WCO regulations clarify the definition of "price actually paid or payable," assisting companies with compliance, facilitating trade, and improving the accuracy and efficiency of customs valuation. This clarification helps businesses understand and adhere to international valuation standards, streamlining import/export processes. By providing a more precise definition, the WCO aims to reduce valuation disputes and promote fair trade practices globally. Ultimately, this leads to more predictable and transparent customs procedures, benefiting both businesses and customs administrations.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Eswatini Pilot Enhanced Customs Training Program

WCO Eswatini Pilot Enhanced Customs Training Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a pilot training evaluation project in collaboration with the Eswatini Revenue Authority (ERA) to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of customs personnel, processes, and structures. Funded by the EU-HS Africa Programme, the project utilizes a systematic evaluation framework covering five levels: reaction, learning, behavior, results, and return on investment. Emphasizing collaboration and participation, the project's findings were shared with WCO members in February 2022. This initiative aims to strengthen customs capacity and improve overall performance through comprehensive evaluation methodologies.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Global Customs Agencies Crack Down on Illegal Wildlife Trade

Global Customs Agencies Crack Down on Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Environment Programme, in collaboration with customs administrations from 11 countries, is enhancing capabilities to combat illegal wildlife trade (IWT) through online diagnostic assessments. Focusing on key areas such as training, enforcement, legislation, cooperation, intelligence, and risk management, the program tailors solutions and gathers international experts to build a global anti-smuggling defense line and safeguard ecological security. The initiative aims to improve customs' effectiveness in detecting and preventing the trafficking of endangered species and related products.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Businesses Join Forces to Tackle Postpandemic Smuggling

WCO Businesses Join Forces to Tackle Postpandemic Smuggling

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is collaborating with the business community to address the challenges posed by smuggling and counterfeit trade in the post-pandemic era. By strengthening customs-business partnerships, leveraging data analytics and technological innovation, the aim is to build a more secure and efficient global trade system. This collaboration seeks to protect consumer rights, maintain fair market competition, and ultimately achieve sustainable supply chain development. The joint efforts are crucial for mitigating risks and fostering a resilient and trustworthy international trade environment.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Botswana Strengthens Environmental Customs Enforcement Under Global Pacts

Botswana Strengthens Environmental Customs Enforcement Under Global Pacts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with UNEP and others, held a workshop for Botswana Customs to enhance awareness of the Basel and Montreal Conventions and strengthen controls over the cross-border movement of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances. The workshop fostered cooperation between customs and environmental agencies. Further technical assistance is planned to support the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to bolster Botswana's capacity in enforcing environmental regulations and facilitating legitimate trade while preventing illegal trafficking of harmful materials.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More