WTO Trade Deal Advances with World Customs Organization Support

WTO Trade Deal Advances with World Customs Organization Support

The WCO Working Group on Trade Facilitation Agreement emphasized the WCO's crucial role in implementing the TFA. Discussions centered on supporting global trade flow through tools and initiatives like National Trade Facilitation Committees, Coordinated Border Management, Time Release Studies, and the Mercator Programme. The meeting also approved a study tool designed to assist members in submitting national practice case studies easily incorporated into implementation guidelines. This aims to further streamline trade processes and enhance efficiency at borders worldwide.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Gambia Customs in Enhancing Training Expertise

WCO Aids Gambia Customs in Enhancing Training Expertise

The World Customs Organization's MADAO project is assisting the Gambia Revenue Authority in developing a team of expert trainers. Through a 'Training of Trainers' workshop, the project enhances the capabilities of customs personnel, promoting trade facilitation and efficient tax collection. This initiative lays the foundation for customs capacity building in Gambia. Future evaluations will continuously assess the training's impact and contribute to the modernization of customs administration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Liberia Pilot Project Enhances Trade with Datadriven Customs

Liberia Pilot Project Enhances Trade with Datadriven Customs

An evaluation of Liberia's tariff pilot program reveals that the data-driven ASYPM system significantly improved decision-making, transparency, and tax revenue efficiency. The program's success highlights the potential of data-driven approaches to enhance customs operations and improve revenue collection in developing countries. By leveraging data analytics and performance monitoring, the system facilitated better resource allocation and reduced opportunities for corruption, ultimately leading to a more effective and accountable customs administration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Oman Strengthens Customs Audits to Improve Trade Compliance

Oman Strengthens Customs Audits to Improve Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Oman Customs in enhancing its post-clearance audit capabilities. Through workshops, Omani customs officials are empowered with key skills such as risk-oriented auditing and document interpretation. This improved audit capacity of Oman Customs will have a significant impact on companies engaged in import and export trade in Oman. Businesses need to strengthen compliance management and proactively address the new challenges and opportunities arising from these enhancements.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Introduces Certification for Postclearance Audits in Francophone Africa

WCO Introduces Certification for Postclearance Audits in Francophone Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a French-speaking Customs Post Clearance Audit (PCA) Technical and Operational Advisor Certification Program to develop a highly qualified team of experts and enhance PCA capabilities in French-speaking regions. The inaugural seminar was successfully held at WCO headquarters. Through rigorous selection and a combination of theoretical and practical training, this program lays the foundation for customs capacity building in the French-speaking area. The initiative aims to strengthen post-clearance controls and improve overall customs efficiency within the region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China Customs Advances Global Trade Via WCO Revenue Plan

China Customs Advances Global Trade Via WCO Revenue Plan

China Customs actively participates in the World Customs Organization's Revenue Package Programme, sharing its experience in valuation control to provide a reference for customs administrations in developing countries. Through measures such as risk management, information sharing, technology application, and capacity building, the valuation control system of China Customs contributes to the healthy development of global trade. This involvement showcases China's commitment to trade facilitation and its willingness to assist other nations in improving their customs valuation practices.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Global Guidelines Clarify Customs Valuation of Franchise Fees

New Global Guidelines Clarify Customs Valuation of Franchise Fees

The World Customs Organization issued a new advisory opinion clarifying that franchise fees should not be included in the customs valuation of imported goods under specific circumstances. Originating from a Mexican case and confirmed by the Technical Committee on Customs Valuation, this opinion aims to reduce import costs for businesses and enhance customs valuation transparency. Companies should study the opinion, assess their franchise agreements, and communicate with customs authorities to ensure valuation compliance and capitalize on trade opportunities. This helps in correctly determining the dutiable value and avoiding potential penalties.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Antigua and Barbuda Joins World Customs Organization

Antigua and Barbuda Joins World Customs Organization

Antigua and Barbuda officially joined the World Customs Organization (WCO) as its 182nd member. This strengthens the WCO's presence in the Americas/Caribbean region and injects new vitality into global customs cooperation. The WCO is dedicated to improving customs management efficiency through setting standards, providing assistance, and promoting cooperation. Its core mission is to facilitate trade and enhance security worldwide. Antigua and Barbuda's membership will contribute to these efforts and benefit from the WCO's expertise in international trade and customs procedures.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Adopt Datadriven Tech for Green Transition

Global Customs Adopt Datadriven Tech for Green Transition

The World Customs Organization report focuses on the impact of data analysis, environmental challenges, and emerging technologies on border management, emphasizing trade facilitation, process transformation, and international cooperation. It highlights the need for customs administrations to leverage data-driven insights to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The report also addresses the growing importance of sustainable trade practices and the role of customs in promoting environmental protection. Furthermore, it underscores the significance of international collaboration in addressing shared challenges and fostering a secure and efficient global trade environment.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Laos Tightens Border Security with Riskbased Screening

Laos Tightens Border Security with Riskbased Screening

With the support of the World Customs Organization, the Lao People's Democratic Republic is actively building a risk-based passenger clearance mechanism through capacity-building workshops. This mechanism aims to enhance border security, improve customs clearance efficiency, and optimize resource allocation. Facing challenges in data analysis, technology application, and inter-agency collaboration, Laos' experience provides valuable lessons for other developing countries. The implementation focuses on streamlined processes and targeted inspections, improving overall border management while facilitating legitimate travel and trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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