Colombia Tax Authority Bolsters Leadership with WCO Training

Colombia Tax Authority Bolsters Leadership with WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held its first virtual Leadership and Management Development (LMD) program at the request of the Colombian National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN). The program, which included modules on crisis management, effectively enhanced the leadership, teamwork, and organizational strategic capabilities of DIAN executives. The Director of DIAN highly praised the program and expressed anticipation for future collaboration. This initiative demonstrates the WCO's commitment to supporting its members in developing strong leadership within their customs administrations.

Zimbabwe Tax Authority Gains from WCO Leadership Program

Zimbabwe Tax Authority Gains from WCO Leadership Program

The WCO held a workshop in Zimbabwe to enhance the management capabilities of ZIMRA, promoting customs modernization and trade development. The workshop aimed to improve tax efficiency and international competitiveness. Key areas covered included leadership development strategies tailored for customs and tax administration. Participants explored best practices in streamlining customs procedures, leveraging technology for tax collection, and fostering a culture of compliance. The ultimate goal is to bolster Zimbabwe's economic growth through efficient and effective revenue collection and enhanced trade facilitation.

WCO SICPA Enhance Global Supply Chain Security Partnership

WCO SICPA Enhance Global Supply Chain Security Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and SICPA are deepening their cooperation to enhance global supply chain security. Through SICPA's support for WCO capacity-building programs, both parties are jointly combating counterfeiting and improving customs enforcement capabilities, aiming to build a safer and more efficient international trade system. This collaboration demonstrates the commitment of governments and the private sector to jointly maintain global trade order. The partnership focuses on strengthening customs administrations to effectively address security threats and facilitate legitimate trade flows.

WCO Updates Expert Guidance for Enhanced Capacity Building

WCO Updates Expert Guidance for Enhanced Capacity Building

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the new "WCO Expert Guidance" to provide comprehensive support to experts involved in capacity building missions. This guide covers pre-mission preparation, execution, post-mission follow-up, and administrative and financial rules. It aims to ensure that experts complete their tasks efficiently and in accordance with regulations, thereby contributing to global customs capacity building efforts. The guidance serves as a valuable resource for experts to enhance their effectiveness and impact on customs modernization worldwide.

WCO and OASIS Collaborate to Standardize Global Trade Tech

WCO and OASIS Collaborate to Standardize Global Trade Tech

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards (OASIS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote the adoption of technical standards by governments and the public sector worldwide, particularly in customs. This collaboration aims to streamline customs procedures and enhance trade efficiency using open IT technologies, ultimately building a secure and efficient supply chain. This signifies the dawn of a new era in trade driven by technical standards, fostering greater interoperability and transparency in global commerce.

Ecommerce Sellers Face Risks from Underdeclaring Shipments

Ecommerce Sellers Face Risks from Underdeclaring Shipments

AliExpress sellers should be wary of customer requests for under-declaration, as compliance can lead to customs fines and buyer refund risks. Brazilian customs inspections are strict, and VAT collection by platforms in the EU market renders under-declaration pointless. Under the DDP model, customs duties are already collected by the platform. Sellers should refuse unreasonable requests, clearly define responsibilities in communication, and retain evidence to protect themselves. Ignoring these issues can lead to significant financial and legal repercussions for AliExpress businesses.

Iran WCO Host Trade Facilitation Workshop

Iran WCO Host Trade Facilitation Workshop

Iran, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization, hosted a national workshop on the Harmonized System (HS). The workshop aimed to enhance the professional capabilities of Iran Customs in commodity classification, promote the uniform application of the HS, and strengthen cooperation with international organizations. This initiative is expected to contribute to the country's economic development by facilitating smoother international trade and ensuring accurate tariff application. The focus was on improving the efficiency and accuracy of customs procedures related to the HS nomenclature.

WCO Boosts Trade Controls in Azerbaijan to Counter WMD Threats

WCO Boosts Trade Controls in Azerbaijan to Counter WMD Threats

The WCO's ACES project has assisted Azerbaijan Customs in enhancing its control over weapons of mass destruction. This initiative involved training customs officers and certifying experts, enabling Azerbaijan to fulfill UN Security Council resolutions and contribute to building a global security barrier. The project strengthens strategic trade control and customs capacity building, ultimately aiming to prevent the proliferation of WMDs and ensure a safer global environment. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing critical security challenges.

Fiji Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

Fiji Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and its stakeholders in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS). This study aims to assess and optimize cargo release processes, thereby enhancing trade facilitation. With WCO's guidance and training, Fiji is expected to better fulfill its obligations under the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and inject new vitality into its economic development. The TRS will provide valuable insights for streamlining customs procedures and improving efficiency.

WCO Conference Highlights Digital Tools for Sustainable Trade

WCO Conference Highlights Digital Tools for Sustainable Trade

The World Customs Organization Technology Conference focused on "Digital Empowerment for Trade Facilitation," delving into topics like Single Window systems, trusted digital ecosystems, and data-driven sustainable supply chains. The conference emphasized technological innovation as a key driver of customs modernization. It called for strengthened international cooperation to build smart customs, addressing global trade challenges and enhancing efficiency, security, and sustainability. The discussions highlighted the importance of leveraging digital tools to streamline processes and foster a more resilient and interconnected global trade environment.