WCO Introduces French Online Courses for Trade Efficiency

WCO Introduces French Online Courses for Trade Efficiency

The WCO has launched a French version of its Data Model and Customs Valuation online course to help customs officers in French-speaking regions improve their skills and promote trade facilitation. This initiative aims to empower customs officials with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively implement the WCO Data Model and apply customs valuation principles. By providing access to this comprehensive training in French, the WCO is enhancing accessibility and fostering greater participation, ultimately contributing to more efficient and transparent customs procedures and smoother international trade flows.

WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with EU funding, held a Technical and Operational Advisor (TOA) accreditation workshop for French-speaking African countries. The aim was to enhance customs officials' skills in areas like commodity classification, origin, and valuation. Through pre-accreditation and field visit assessments, the project seeks to expand the pool of experts and facilitate regional trade. Quantitative evaluation and continuous improvement are crucial for the project's success, contributing to the upgrading of African trade. The program ultimately aims to streamline customs procedures and boost economic development within the region.

WTO Aids Bolivia in Strengthening Customs Resilience During Pandemic

WTO Aids Bolivia in Strengthening Customs Resilience During Pandemic

The World Trade Organization's Global Programme on Trade Facilitation (PMFE) organized stress management and psychological support training for Bolivian customs officers to help them cope with the challenges posed by the pandemic. The training included online assessments, knowledge dissemination, and offline workshops, focusing on work-life balance and enhancing psychological resilience. Following the training, customs officers acquired stress management skills, and the expert team proposed establishing a regular stress management mechanism. This initiative aimed to improve the well-being and effectiveness of customs personnel during a demanding period.

Kenya Enhances Customs Training Via WCO Elearning Platform

Kenya Enhances Customs Training Via WCO Elearning Platform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Kenya Regional Training Centre (CRF) in introducing e-learning, aiming to enhance the professional capabilities and efficiency of Kenyan customs officers. This initiative seeks to improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, and enhance international competitiveness. This effort not only boosts Kenya's own capabilities but also provides valuable lessons for other developing countries, contributing to a more efficient, convenient, and secure global trade environment. The e-learning model is expected to significantly improve knowledge dissemination and skills development within the Kenyan customs administration.

Chinas FDI Inflows Surge Amid Strong Economic Growth

Chinas FDI Inflows Surge Amid Strong Economic Growth

In the first half of 2022, China's actual use of foreign capital increased by 17.4% year-on-year, with high-tech industries showing significant growth, indicating foreign investors' confidence in China's economic transformation and upgrading. Investment from major economies like South Korea, the United States, and Germany increased, with a more balanced regional distribution and particularly strong growth in the western region. The attractiveness of the Chinese market to foreign investment continues to strengthen.

US Trade Rep Tai Outlines New China Trade Strategy

US Trade Rep Tai Outlines New China Trade Strategy

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai outlined a new trade strategy towards China, emphasizing a worker-centric approach. This involves evaluating the Phase One agreement, initiating a tariff exclusion process, and addressing deeper structural issues to rebuild American competitiveness. Industry observers suggest the policy's impact requires further observation, and businesses should remain flexible in their response. The strategy aims to reshape the US's competitive edge in the global market while addressing concerns about fair trade practices with China.

Trumps Trade War Disrupts Global Economy Alters Trade Flows

Trumps Trade War Disrupts Global Economy Alters Trade Flows

The Trump trade war, initiated in 2017 to address trade deficits and intellectual property issues, has profoundly impacted the global economy. Economic shocks such as increased tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and agricultural damage, along with heightened internal divisions and strained international relations, highlight the complexity of the trade war. Future trends include ongoing negotiations, a revival of multilateralism, and supply chain restructuring. Countries need to diversify markets, enhance industrial competitiveness, and promote international cooperation to navigate the evolving global landscape.

Bahamas Customs Boosts Anticounterfeit Training Under TRIPS

Bahamas Customs Boosts Anticounterfeit Training Under TRIPS

Bahamas Customs, in collaboration with the WCO, significantly enhanced its capacity to combat counterfeit goods through TRIPS/IPR workshops and practical exercises. Customs officers not only acquired new skills but also strengthened their awareness of intellectual property protection. This initiative lays the foundation for building a secure and fair market environment, contributing to the overall effort of safeguarding legitimate trade and consumer rights.

WCO Enhances North Macedonia Customs with Tariff Training

WCO Enhances North Macedonia Customs with Tariff Training

With the support of the German Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a tariff classification workshop in North Macedonia. Focusing on dairy products, dietary supplements, and high-tech equipment, the workshop aimed to enhance the tariff classification skills of North Macedonian customs officers. This initiative seeks to facilitate international trade and promote customs modernization within the country.

Ethiopian Customs Officials Train in HS at WCO HQ

Ethiopian Customs Officials Train in HS at WCO HQ

Ethiopian customs experts visited the WCO headquarters to study and enhance their HS Code application skills. By participating in HS Committee meetings, exchanging ideas with international experts, and collaborating with the HS-Africa project, Ethiopian Customs achieved significant results in capacity building, international cooperation, and future development planning. This visit laid a solid foundation for better integration into the global trade system.