WCO Boosts Namibias Anticounterfeiting Efforts in IP Program

WCO Boosts Namibias Anticounterfeiting Efforts in IP Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched its Intellectual Property Health and Safety (IPHS) Programme, with the first online training successfully held in Namibia. This initiative aims to enhance customs' ability to combat counterfeiting and piracy, particularly focusing on illicit medical goods during the pandemic. The WCO emphasizes customs' responsibility and provides tools to address these challenges. Funded by Japan Customs, the program seeks to strengthen international cooperation through information sharing, joint enforcement operations, capacity building, and public awareness campaigns, ultimately safeguarding global trade security.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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IIS 75 4040 Errors Causes and Solutions Explored

IIS 75 4040 Errors Causes and Solutions Explored

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the 404.0 Not Found error in IIS 7.5, specifically targeting errors related to the `CaptchaImage.axd` resource. It meticulously interprets the error message, offering a range of potential causes, troubleshooting steps, and corresponding solutions. The aim is to empower website administrators to quickly identify and resolve the issue, ultimately improving user experience. The troubleshooting guide helps pinpoint the root cause and implement effective fixes for this common problem in IIS 7.5 environments.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Advance Cargo Declarations Speed Up Global Customs Clearance

Advance Cargo Declarations Speed Up Global Customs Clearance

This paper delves into the significance of advance declaration and fast release mechanisms for goods, highlighting their crucial role in accelerating customs clearance, reducing costs, and improving efficiency. It elaborates on the key elements for implementing advance declaration and introduces relevant tools and guidelines from the World Customs Organization (WCO). The paper concludes by summarizing the multifaceted benefits of advance declaration for businesses, customs authorities, and nations, advocating for its widespread adoption to foster a new paradigm in global trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Sierra Leones Trade Recovery Postdisaster

WCO Aids Sierra Leones Trade Recovery Postdisaster

Following the devastating mudslides in Sierra Leone, the WCO assisted the National Revenue Authority (NRA) in developing its Strategic Plan for 2018-2022. This plan focuses on trade facilitation as a key driver for economic growth and development. The WCO's support aimed to strengthen the NRA's capacity to implement efficient and effective customs procedures, ultimately contributing to the country's reconstruction and long-term economic stability. The strategic plan provides a roadmap for modernizing customs operations and promoting a more business-friendly environment in Sierra Leone.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaragua Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs Reforms

Nicaragua Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs Reforms

Nicaragua, with the support of the World Customs Organization, hosted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop. The aim was to identify and address trade bottlenecks through the TRS methodology, thereby improving customs clearance efficiency. This event is part of the WCO-Norwegian Development Cooperation Agency's Customs Capacity Building Project and complements Nicaragua's Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) pilot program. Both initiatives are dedicated to enhancing supply chain security and efficiency, ultimately promoting trade facilitation.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos Mercator Program Advances Palestinian Customs Modernization

Wcos Mercator Program Advances Palestinian Customs Modernization

The World Customs Organization (WCO) positively assessed Palestine's Mercator Program, acknowledging its effectiveness in trade facilitation. The report highlighted the importance of strategic planning, public-private partnerships, and electronic connectivity, laying the groundwork for future tailored support. International cooperation contributes to Palestine's customs modernization, offering a valuable model for other developing countries. The assessment underscores the program's success and provides insights for further improvements and replication in similar contexts, emphasizing the role of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable trade facilitation outcomes.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Gabon in Curbing Illegal Wildlife Trade

WCO Aids Gabon in Curbing Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a CITES-Framework Action Plan training in Gabon, aimed at enhancing the capacity of African customs officers to combat illegal wildlife trade. Hosted by the Gabonese Customs Administration, the training involved representatives from multiple countries, focusing on discussing challenges and sharing experiences. The U.S. Department of State funded the training. The WCO-INAMA project is dedicated to protecting Africa's biodiversity through training and cooperation. This initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in tackling wildlife crime and strengthening customs enforcement efforts.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gabon Customs Adopts Wcobacked HR Modernization Plan

Gabon Customs Adopts Wcobacked HR Modernization Plan

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Gabonese Customs is actively promoting the modernization of its human resource management system, aiming to establish a competency-based modern HRM system. Through evaluating pilot programs, developing HR strategies, strengthening capacity building, and collaborating with the Ministry of Finance, Gabonese Customs is striving to enhance the professional skills and overall work efficiency of its employees, thereby contributing more significantly to national economic development. The reforms focus on building a more skilled and efficient workforce to support the organization's goals.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ethiopia Boosts Trade Compliance with WCO Audit Support

Ethiopia Boosts Trade Compliance with WCO Audit Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Ethiopia in enhancing its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities, aiming to create an efficient and compliant trade environment by optimizing customs controls, improving clearance efficiency, and promoting business compliance. The workshop covered PCA concepts, risk management, audit processes, and valuation challenges. It aims to improve the professional skills of Ethiopian customs officers and inject new vitality into the country's trade development. This initiative contributes to trade facilitation and strengthens customs capacity within Ethiopia.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a risk management diagnostic of the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) to enhance its risk management effectiveness and promote trade facilitation. Through in-depth research, multi-stakeholder engagement, on-site visits, and supply chain analysis, the WCO tailored solutions for ERCA and proposed a capacity building action plan. This initiative aims to help Ethiopia establish a more efficient and secure customs administration system. The diagnostic and subsequent recommendations are intended to strengthen ERCA's ability to manage risks effectively and facilitate legitimate trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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