Bosnia Boosts Ecommerce with Wcobacked Customs Reform

Bosnia Boosts Ecommerce with Wcobacked Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Bosnia and Herzegovina focusing on cross-border e-commerce. The aim was to enhance the awareness of Bosnian Customs regarding e-commerce and to optimize clearance procedures. The workshop highlighted WCO's Framework of Standards on Cross-Border E-Commerce and the Immediate Release Guidelines. These tools are designed to help Bosnia and Herzegovina seize the opportunities presented by cross-border e-commerce, address related challenges, and ultimately achieve economic development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Data Model Aims to Streamline Global Trade Processes

WCO Data Model Aims to Streamline Global Trade Processes

The WCO Data Model and Information Management Conference achieved significant results. It improved the data model, enhanced information security, and contributed to the global digital transformation of trade, thereby improving trade efficiency. The conference focused on streamlining data standards and promoting secure information exchange to facilitate seamless cross-border transactions. The outcomes are expected to accelerate the adoption of digital solutions in customs procedures and foster greater collaboration among stakeholders in the international trade ecosystem. Ultimately, this will lead to faster, more secure, and more efficient global trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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MENA Customs Adopts Blockchain Aiiot to Modernize Trade

MENA Customs Adopts Blockchain Aiiot to Modernize Trade

The WCO's MENA region workshop on disruptive technologies focused on the application of blockchain, AI, and IoT in customs. These technologies can reshape the future of trade by enhancing supply chain transparency, optimizing risk assessment, and enabling real-time cargo tracking. The development of international standards and strengthened regional cooperation are key for MENA customs administrations to seize the opportunities presented by digital transformation.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Highlights Data Strategy and Trade Tools at June Meetings

WCO Highlights Data Strategy and Trade Tools at June Meetings

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Permanent Technical Committee (PTC) meeting focused on data strategy, emphasizing the future of data-driven customs management. The meeting approved several key tools, including the 'Study Report on Disruptive Technologies' and the 'Rail Transit Handbook,' which will be submitted to the Policy Commission and Council for approval. Furthermore, discussions covered e-commerce, pandemic response, and the circular economy. The meeting also saw the election of a new chairman and vice-chairman.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Customs Boosts Planning with WCO Backing

Colombia Customs Boosts Planning with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the GTFP project, assisted the Colombian Tax and Customs Authority (DIAN) in enhancing its strategic planning and project management capabilities. The workshop yielded significant results. DIAN developed an implementation plan for a results-based management system, constructed a future customs model, and identified three flagship projects. These initiatives lay a solid foundation for the modernization of Colombian customs.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids MENA Customs in Trade Boost Via Harmonized System

WCO Aids MENA Customs in Trade Boost Via Harmonized System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively supports the implementation of the Harmonized System by customs administrations in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, enhancing trade facilitation. Through workshops on the HS 2017 amendments and promotion of advance rulings, the WCO assists regional customs in improving management and promoting economic development. Future cooperation will focus on capacity building, technical assistance, and long-term planning to address new challenges in global trade. This aims to further streamline processes and boost regional economic growth within the MENA region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts WCO Strategy for Regional Leadership

Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts WCO Strategy for Regional Leadership

With the support of the World Customs Organization, The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) launched strategic management reforms to enhance organizational efficiency and strategic execution. Through assessment, roadmap development, and strengthening project management systems, the GRA aims to become a West African tax model, contributing to regional development. The reforms are expected to improve revenue collection, streamline processes, and foster greater international cooperation in tax matters, ultimately boosting The Gambia's economic growth and stability.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and WTO Boost Global Trade Facilitation Committees

WCO and WTO Boost Global Trade Facilitation Committees

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the World Trade Organization (WTO), held a high-level course for chairs of National Trade Facilitation Committees. The course aimed to enhance participants' understanding of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and strengthen their ability to engage with stakeholders. The WCO shared its experience in stakeholder consultation and resource mobilization, introducing relevant tools and standards to support countries in establishing and improving their National Trade Facilitation Committees. This collaborative effort contributes to building a more open and efficient global trading system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Antitrafficking Training in MENA to Protect Cultural Heritage

WCO Launches Antitrafficking Training in MENA to Protect Cultural Heritage

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with various partners, successfully conducted a training-of-trainers workshop for customs officers in the Middle East and North Africa region. This initiative aimed to enhance the capacity of customs personnel to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural property. The training covered cultural property identification, risk management, and international cooperation, emphasizing the importance of implementing relevant WCO resolutions. This training represents a significant step by the WCO in the field of cultural heritage protection and contributes to strengthening the defenses against cultural property crime.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Joins Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Burkina Faso Joins Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Burkina Faso has acceded to the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), becoming the 111th contracting party. The RKC simplifies customs clearance procedures, promotes trade facilitation, and enhances global competitiveness. By adopting the RKC, Burkina Faso aims to streamline its customs operations, reduce trade barriers, and ultimately boost its economic growth. This accession underscores the country's commitment to international standards and its desire to integrate more effectively into the global trading system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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