Moldova Advances Customs Reform with SECOWCO Aid Targets 2026 TRS

Moldova Advances Customs Reform with SECOWCO Aid Targets 2026 TRS

Moldova, with the support of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, held a virtual Time Release Study (TRS) workshop to assess clearance times and develop a national implementation roadmap. The goal is to complete the TRS report by January 2026, covering import and export processes, and to make it available to all stakeholders. The WCO pledged continued technical support to help Moldova improve trade facilitation and promote economic development. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to streamline border procedures.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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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
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WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade Initiatives

WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade Initiatives

On International Women's Day, the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the crucial role of women in global trade and actively promotes gender equality. Through conferences, the development of assessment tools, and the implementation of leadership development programs, the WCO is dedicated to elevating the position of women in customs, breaking down gender barriers, and jointly building a more prosperous and equitable global trade landscape. The WCO's efforts aim to empower women and ensure their equal participation in shaping the future of international trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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DR Congo Customs Boosts Revenue with HS Code Upgrade

DR Congo Customs Boosts Revenue with HS Code Upgrade

DR Congo Customs aims to achieve customs autonomy by introducing HS tools and conducting nationwide training, reducing reliance on external organizations. This initiative includes equipping customs offices with HS software, developing provincial promotion plans, improving vocational training systems, and strengthening integrity. By enhancing the professionalism and operational capabilities of customs personnel, DR Congo hopes to boost its economic growth. The implementation of HS tools and comprehensive training are key components of this strategy for achieving greater self-reliance in customs management.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Law Enforcement Cracks Down on Wildlife Trafficking

Global Law Enforcement Cracks Down on Wildlife Trafficking

The CITES Secretary-General, at the WCO Enforcement Committee meeting, emphasized the shared goals and close collaboration between the two organizations in combating illegal wildlife trade. Through capacity building, data sharing, and joint enforcement efforts, they are jointly safeguarding global ecological security. Customs agencies are the first line of defense in protecting wildlife, requiring global participation. The collaboration between CITES and WCO is crucial in addressing the complex challenges posed by wildlife trafficking and ensuring the effective implementation of international regulations.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Niger Customs Modernizes Trade Processes with WCO Backing

Niger Customs Modernizes Trade Processes with WCO Backing

Niger Customs, with WCO support, launched an IT strategy for modernization. It involved needs analysis and strategic planning, focusing on establishing an IT department, talent development, infrastructure upgrades, and process standardization. The strategy aims to improve clearance efficiency, reduce error rates, increase revenue, and enhance services. Challenges include funding, technology, and mindset shifts, requiring international assistance and talent cultivation. The successful implementation of this IT strategy is crucial for Niger Customs to meet its modernization goals and contribute to national development.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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UN Adopts GOVCBR Standard to Simplify Global Trade

UN Adopts GOVCBR Standard to Simplify Global Trade

The new UN/EDIFACT message GOVCBR aims to provide a unified data submission standard for cross-border trade, simplifying processes and improving efficiency. The WCO is developing implementation guidelines, aligning with the UN/CEFACT Core Component Library. The promotion of GOVCBR will drive global trade facilitation and provide a foundation for trade data analysis. It streamlines information exchange between traders and government agencies, reducing redundancies and promoting transparency. This standardized approach is crucial for fostering a more efficient and secure global trading environment.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Adds Spanish Arabic to Professional Standards for Global Customs

WCO Adds Spanish Arabic to Professional Standards for Global Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) announced the addition of Spanish and Arabic versions to its PICARD Professional Standards, aiming to enhance the professional capabilities of customs officers worldwide and facilitate international trade. The WCO expressed gratitude to the University of Costa Rica and the Saudi Customs for their translation support. The WCO will continue to promote the standards to support global customs capacity building initiatives. This expansion ensures wider accessibility and implementation of best practices in customs administration across diverse linguistic regions.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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SADC Conference Boosts Regional Trade Through Customs Reform

SADC Conference Boosts Regional Trade Through Customs Reform

The 2010 SADC Customs Capacity Building Conference fostered regional customs reform and modernized management, strengthening regional coordination. Participants shared capacity-building experiences and identified areas for cooperation based on WCO standards. Significant attention was given to the SACU pilot project and the implementation of the WCO Customs Learning Standards, laying the foundation for future regional capacity-building development. The conference highlighted the importance of harmonized procedures and collaborative efforts in enhancing customs efficiency and regional trade facilitation within the SADC region.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Benin Port Upgrade Boosts Trade with Customs Reforms

Benin Port Upgrade Boosts Trade with Customs Reforms

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Benin Customs with reform and modernization efforts to improve the efficiency of the Port of Cotonou. By providing expert guidance, overseeing strategic implementation, and coordinating resources, the WCO aims to optimize customs procedures, introduce advanced technologies, and enhance personnel skills, ultimately fostering Benin's economic development. A key aspect of the reform involves tailored measures addressing the port's specific circumstances and establishing an efficient information-sharing mechanism. This collaboration seeks to streamline operations and boost trade facilitation.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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