WCO Enhances Ethiopias Revenue Collection with Audit Upgrades

WCO Enhances Ethiopias Revenue Collection with Audit Upgrades

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the Mercator Programme, supports the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) in enhancing its post-clearance audit (PCA) capabilities. This includes updating the ERCA's PCA manual to align with WCO guidelines and international best practices. The initiative aims to effectively implement the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), thereby promoting trade facilitation and economic development in Ethiopia. This capacity building effort is crucial for efficient customs operations and streamlined trade processes.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Private Sector Collaborate to Strengthen Global Supply Chains

WCO Private Sector Collaborate to Strengthen Global Supply Chains

The WCO Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) meeting and Policy Commission dialogue focused on business recovery, data strategy, and green customs. Participants emphasized the need to make trade facilitation measures permanent, leverage data-driven strategies for planning, and promote green customs to build a sustainable trade ecosystem. The discussions centered on jointly addressing global trade challenges and building more resilient supply chains. The aim is to foster a robust and adaptable global trade environment capable of weathering future disruptions.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guyana Upgrades Customs System to Boost Trade with WCO Aid

Guyana Upgrades Customs System to Boost Trade with WCO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Guyana's customs modernization through the 'Accelerated Trade Facilitation Programme,' focusing on strengthening the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) system and implementing the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. With support from the UK, the initiative aims to streamline customs procedures, enhance supply chain security, and boost Guyana's international trade competitiveness. The program emphasizes efficient and secure trade practices, contributing to economic growth and regional integration by fostering a more reliable and predictable trade environment.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Russias Energy Trade Thrives As Tech Sector Struggles Under Sanctions

Russias Energy Trade Thrives As Tech Sector Struggles Under Sanctions

Western sanctions against Russia aim to limit, not sever, trade. While the ruble remains strong and oil revenues are high, access to technology is restricted. Sanctions are being implemented in phases, with energy exports remaining robust, while technology sanctions are showing initial effects. Global trade data reveals the impact of sanctions on Russian imports and exports, as well as shifts in trade flows. Sanctions are a long-term strategy with far-reaching consequences, impacting Russia's economy and global trade dynamics.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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New Framework Aims to Boost Gender Equality in Global Trade

New Framework Aims to Boost Gender Equality in Global Trade

During the 2019 WTO Global Review of Aid for Trade, the WCO co-organized a side event focusing on gender mainstreaming in trade facilitation. The meeting highlighted the importance of gender equality, revealing barriers to women's participation in trade. Experiences from the EU and Uganda were shared, and the WCO presented its tools and initiatives to promote gender equality and diversity in customs. This event laid the groundwork for future efforts to promote gender equality within Aid for Trade initiatives.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Botswana Implements Advanced Customs Preruling System

Botswana Implements Advanced Customs Preruling System

Botswana is actively advancing its advance ruling system to align with international standards and optimize its trade environment. Through self-assessment and international cooperation, Botswana is committed to improving its laws and regulations, strengthening capacity building, and streamlining processes. This aims to provide businesses with clearer and more reliable trade guidance, reduce trade risks, improve customs clearance efficiency, embrace trade facilitation, and enhance international competitiveness. The initiative is expected to significantly benefit businesses operating in Botswana and contribute to the country's economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Philippines Boosts Customs Oversight with STCE Project

Philippines Boosts Customs Oversight with STCE Project

The WCO's STCE Project provided training support to the Philippine Customs on strategic goods control. Through online training, Philippine Customs officers enhanced their capabilities in strategic trade control, risk management, and the application of the Strategic Trade Atlas. The project strengthened cooperation between Philippine Customs and domestic agencies as well as international partners, contributing to national security and the international trade order. This initiative improved the effectiveness of customs operations in preventing the illicit trafficking of sensitive items and promoting responsible trade practices.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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IF Coconut Water Opens Shanghai HQ to Expand China Presence

IF Coconut Water Opens Shanghai HQ to Expand China Presence

IF Coconut Water's China headquarters settles in Hongqiao. Walmart upgrades its stores. China achieves breakthroughs in underwater space station technology. Hainan Free Trade Port opens a new multimodal transport channel. China Merchants Group increases its investment in Hainan's shipping industry. Hainan's coffee industry flourishes. The China-ASEAN Free Trade Area is upgraded. Hainan Free Trade Port's independent customs operation yields significant results. Coca-Cola appoints a Chief Digital Officer. A new export channel for chemical products from Hainan Free Trade Port opens.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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US Imposes Tiered Fees to Counter Chinas Maritime Trade Dominance

US Imposes Tiered Fees to Counter Chinas Maritime Trade Dominance

The U.S. Trade Representative is implementing tiered tariffs targeting China's maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding industries, aiming to counter its dominance. This action, through adjusted fees and LNG export policies, will impact container shipping costs, supply chain diversification, market competition, and trade friction risks. Businesses should reassess their supply chains, optimize transportation plans, enhance transparency, and monitor policy developments to navigate the evolving trade landscape. The tariffs are expected to increase costs and potentially disrupt existing trade routes, forcing companies to adapt their strategies.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WTO Moves to Standardize Global Customs Valuation Rules

WTO Moves to Standardize Global Customs Valuation Rules

The 1983 Customs Valuation Committee Decision clarified that the English term "undertaken" in the Customs Valuation Agreement should be interpreted as "carried out." This aims to standardize international trade terminology, enhance the accuracy and consistency of customs valuation, reduce the risk of trade disputes, and facilitate international trade. The French and Spanish versions of the term remain unchanged. This clarification ensures a more uniform application of the agreement across different language versions, promoting fairness and predictability in international trade transactions.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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