Lesotho Customs Enhances Trade with WCO PCA Support

Lesotho Customs Enhances Trade with WCO PCA Support

In June 2019, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic mission to enhance the post clearance audit (PCA) capabilities of the Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA). By assessing the LRA's institutional setup, infrastructure, and technical approaches, the WCO aimed to assist Lesotho in better implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, optimizing trade processes, and fostering economic development. This collaboration demonstrates the WCO's vital role in global trade facilitation.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic of Antigua and Barbuda Customs to enhance trade facilitation. Through observation and discussions, the WCO assessed the current state of PCA implementation and provided recommendations for improvement. Moving forward, the WCO will continue to collaborate, assisting Antigua and Barbuda Customs in refining risk management, data analysis, personnel training, and IT systems. This includes strengthening cooperation with the private sector to promote trade development. The goal is to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Swiss SECO WCO Collaborate to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

Swiss SECO WCO Collaborate to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

The Swiss SECO, in collaboration with the WCO, has launched the "Global Trade Facilitation Programme" with an investment of 5.5 million Swiss francs. This initiative aims to enhance trade competitiveness and integration into the global economy for developing and transition countries, fostering sustainable development. The programme focuses on organizational capacity building, technical assistance, and WCO capacity building support. Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, and Uzbekistan are among the first countries to benefit from this project.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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World Customs Organization Boosts Gender Equality in East and Southern Africa

World Customs Organization Boosts Gender Equality in East and Southern Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through Phase II of the Finland-East and Southern Africa Project, is helping customs administrations in the region enhance their gender equality capabilities. This includes providing tools, organizing training, and promoting cooperation. Workshops focused on gender mainstreaming, sharing practical examples, and developing guidelines for regional development. The WCO will continue to support national customs agencies in building a more equitable, inclusive, and efficient working environment.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Businesses Customs Collaborate to Strengthen Supply Chains

Businesses Customs Collaborate to Strengthen Supply Chains

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has adopted a resolution aimed at strengthening customs-business partnerships and enhancing global supply chain resilience. The resolution emphasizes strategic prioritization, innovative partnerships, digital transformation, data sharing, and capacity building. The WCO will support its implementation. Businesses can actively participate through AEO certification, enhanced communication, embracing digitalization, and strengthened risk management, collectively building a secure and efficient trade environment. This collaborative approach fosters greater trust and predictability within the international trade landscape, ultimately bolstering supply chain stability.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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UK Nigeria Boost Trade Via Customs Partnership

UK Nigeria Boost Trade Via Customs Partnership

The UK's HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) collaborated with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to support the NCS in developing an AEO program compliant with WCO SAFE standards through AEO program benchmarking. This collaboration aims to strengthen trade partnerships between the two countries, enhance supply chain security and efficiency, and achieve trade facilitation, injecting new impetus into global trade development. The partnership leverages HMRC's experience to help NCS establish a robust and effective AEO program, ultimately fostering smoother and more secure international trade flows.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nigeria Customs Adopts WCO System to Boost Trade Efficiency

Nigeria Customs Adopts WCO System to Boost Trade Efficiency

With WCO support, the Nigeria Customs Service upgraded its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) system, strengthening risk management, optimizing trader segmentation, and supporting the implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. This initiative aims to enhance trade efficiency and promote economic prosperity. Emphasizing data-driven customs management, the project offers valuable lessons for other developing countries looking to modernize their customs operations and improve trade facilitation measures. The focus on risk-based approaches and data analysis is key to achieving tangible improvements in customs performance.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Botswana Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

Botswana Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) workshop for the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) to enhance its revenue administration capabilities. This activity, part of the Swedish government-funded Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, covered topics like risk management and customs valuation. The workshop aims to assist Botswana in increasing tax revenue, combating smuggling, and promoting trade facilitation and sustainable development. It focuses on strengthening BURS's ability to effectively conduct PCA and improve overall customs control.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Botswana Enhances Border Efficiency with WCO Study at Mamuno

Botswana Enhances Border Efficiency with WCO Study at Mamuno

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Botswana in conducting a Time Release Study at the Mamuno border post to establish a One-Stop Border Post and enhance trade facilitation. Through data collection and analysis, bottlenecks are identified and processes optimized, injecting new vitality into Botswana's economic development. This initiative not only improves efficiency but also promotes international cooperation, setting a precedent for trade facilitation in Africa. The study aims to streamline border procedures and boost economic growth.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Train-the-Trainer workshop in Kenya, focusing on the Basel and Montreal Conventions. Through capacity building, the WCO aims to assist national customs administrations in improving compliance, combating illegal trade, and protecting the environment. The Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization (TFCM) Programme provides technical assistance to relevant customs agencies to address trade-related environmental issues and promote sustainable development. This initiative empowers customs officers to effectively enforce environmental regulations and contribute to global environmental protection efforts.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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