Azerbaijan Honors WCO Chief for Customs Reform Efforts

Azerbaijan Honors WCO Chief for Customs Reform Efforts

World Customs Organization (WCO) Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya was awarded the “Order of Friendship” by the President of Azerbaijan for his outstanding contributions to customs reform in Azerbaijan. The article reviews the transformation of Azerbaijan's customs service, highlighting the WCO's supportive role and outlining future cooperation directions. It emphasizes the importance of international collaboration in customs modernization. The award recognizes Mikuriya's and the WCO's dedication to assisting Azerbaijan in enhancing its customs procedures and promoting efficient and secure trade facilitation.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advocates Gender Equality to Boost Customs Efficiency

WCO Advocates Gender Equality to Boost Customs Efficiency

The World Customs Organization conference emphasized inclusive customs practices, advocating for gender equality and diversity. The focus was on empowering women and vulnerable groups to enhance trade efficiency. The discussions highlighted the importance of creating a fair and equitable environment within customs administrations and across international trade. This approach aims to leverage the talents of all individuals, fostering innovation and collaboration to improve customs operations and contribute to sustainable economic development. Ultimately, inclusive customs practices lead to more effective and efficient trade facilitation.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Barbados Adopts Peoplecentric Customs Reform with WCO Support

Barbados Adopts Peoplecentric Customs Reform with WCO Support

The WCO is assisting Barbados Customs with reforms to enhance human resource management and build a high-performing customs administration that serves national development. This initiative focuses on modernizing customs practices and strengthening the skills and capabilities of customs officers. Ultimately, the goal is to create a more efficient and effective customs service that contributes significantly to Barbados' economic growth and security. The project aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce trade costs, and enhance border security through targeted training and process improvements.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCOWACAM Project Boosts Customs HRM in West and Central Africa

WCOWACAM Project Boosts Customs HRM in West and Central Africa

WCO, in collaboration with WACAM, is developing customs HRM experts in West and Central Africa to enhance management capabilities. Through training and practical exercises, the initiative aims to build a regional think tank, fostering customs modernization. This partnership strengthens regional cooperation and promotes efficient customs practices, ultimately contributing to improved trade facilitation and economic development within the region. The focus is on equipping customs officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage human resources and implement modern customs procedures.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Officials Adopt Online Training Amid Crisis

Customs Officials Adopt Online Training Amid Crisis

The pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation of customs training, making online training an inevitable choice. The World Customs Organization (WCO) has published the 'Online Training Transformation Guide' to provide practical guidance for customs training managers. It emphasizes interactive engagement to help build a flexible and efficient online training system, enhance the capabilities of customs personnel, and promote global trade. This guide offers valuable insights for developing effective online training programs and adapting to the evolving needs of customs administrations worldwide.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nigeria Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

Nigeria Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

The Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), is actively promoting a gender equality and diversity strategy. Initiatives include revising action plans and conducting GED (Gender Equality and Diversity) training to raise awareness among customs officers and foster an inclusive work environment. The WCO will continue to provide technical support to help Nigeria Customs achieve more equitable and efficient development. The aim is to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected, contributing to a stronger and more effective customs administration.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Boost East Africa Customs Valuation for Trade Growth

WCO JICA Boost East Africa Customs Valuation for Trade Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) joint project held an advanced Customs Valuation trainer workshop in East Africa. The aim was to cultivate experienced trainers, develop practical training materials, and enhance customs valuation capabilities in East Africa, thereby promoting trade facilitation. Through case studies, expert guidance, and skills sharing, the workshop improved the professional level of customs officials and customs brokers, contributing to regional economic development. The initiative underscores the importance of skilled personnel in ensuring fair and efficient trade practices.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances African Customs Training Amid Belgian Graduation Milestone

WCO Enhances African Customs Training Amid Belgian Graduation Milestone

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) attended the graduation ceremony of French-speaking African customs officials at the Belgian Customs Academy, emphasizing the crucial role of customs in revenue collection, trade facilitation, and societal protection. This initiative supports African economic development and the AfCFTA by enhancing customs management, promoting regional integration, and fostering international cooperation. The WCO plays a key role by providing technical assistance and promoting the application of international standards, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and secure trade environment in Africa.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Barbados Advances Customs Modernization with WCO Support

Barbados Advances Customs Modernization with WCO Support

The WCO assisted Barbados Customs with its reform efforts, leading to improved efficiency, revenue collection, and trade facilitation. A key focus was on human resource management, with positive employee engagement. This initiative aimed to modernize customs operations and enhance the overall effectiveness of the Barbados Customs administration. The reform encompassed various aspects, including streamlined procedures, updated technology, and enhanced training programs for customs officers. Ultimately, the goal was to create a more efficient and transparent customs environment, benefiting both the government and the business community.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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