WCO Scholarship Program Enhances Customs Officials Global Skills

WCO Scholarship Program Enhances Customs Officials Global Skills

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Spanish Scholarship Program has been launched to enhance the professional skills and management capabilities of customs officials from Spanish-speaking countries and promote customs reform and modernization. The program offers tailored curriculum, lectures by WCO experts, and field visit opportunities, helping participants broaden their international perspectives and accelerate their career development. This is an unmissable learning and development opportunity for customs professionals.

Sierra Leone Djibouti Join HS Convention to Streamline Trade

Sierra Leone Djibouti Join HS Convention to Streamline Trade

In 2015, Sierra Leone and Djibouti acceded to the International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, becoming the 152nd and 153rd contracting parties. This is significant for both countries, facilitating trade, enhancing international competitiveness, and promoting economic development. The Convention covers over 98% of global trade in goods. Its standardized coding system simplifies trade procedures, enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and standardization of global trade.

Niger Customs Deploys Geospatial Tech to Curb Smuggling

Niger Customs Deploys Geospatial Tech to Curb Smuggling

Niger Customs utilized high-resolution satellite imagery analysis to identify 855 border crossings in the Torodi region, effectively combating smuggling activities. This initiative demonstrates the significant potential of geospatial intelligence data in border management and provides valuable experience for other countries. The use of satellite imagery allowed for detailed mapping and analysis of remote areas, leading to improved surveillance and interdiction efforts against illegal trade.

US Container Imports Rise in June As Chinas Share Dips

US Container Imports Rise in June As Chinas Share Dips

A Descartes report indicates a slight month-over-month increase but a year-over-year decrease in US container imports for June. China's share continues to decline. Key factors include trade policy adjustments, supply chain diversification, and evolving port dynamics. Southeast Asian countries are gaining prominence, while West Coast ports are rebounding. US importers need to adapt to these shifts and adjust their supply chain strategies accordingly.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Global Trade Program Extended to Strengthen Customs Operations

Global Trade Program Extended to Strengthen Customs Operations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) have agreed to a no-cost extension of one year for the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP). Launched in 2018, the GTFP has benefited numerous countries by significantly improving customs management and trade facilitation through capacity building, institutional reforms, cooperation promotion, and technological innovation. This has injected new momentum into global trade development.

Europes Top Maritime Hubs Ranked for Sea Freight

Europes Top Maritime Hubs Ranked for Sea Freight

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the strongest European maritime nations. It assesses countries based on maritime scale, shipping companies, port facilities, and maritime technology. The analysis reveals the leading positions of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. This study serves as a reference for companies seeking suitable European maritime partners, offering insights into the key players and infrastructure within the European maritime sector.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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WCO Belgian Customs Academy Expand African Customs Training Partnership

WCO Belgian Customs Academy Expand African Customs Training Partnership

Customs officials from French-speaking African countries visited the WCO headquarters during their training at the Belgian Customs Academy. They participated in presentations on intellectual property, and health & safety projects. The WCO's long-standing collaboration with the Belgian Customs Academy significantly contributes to customs capacity building in Africa through tailored training programs. This partnership supports economic prosperity and social development across the African continent.

Odunvis Launches Zhengzhouho Chi Minh City Route to Boost Chinavietnam Trade

Odunvis Launches Zhengzhouho Chi Minh City Route to Boost Chinavietnam Trade

Shanghai Audunweis International Freight Forwarding Co., Ltd. actively expands its China-Vietnam road transportation business, offering full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) dedicated line services from Zhengzhou to Ho Chi Minh City, etc. With efficient and convenient door-to-door service, bilateral formal customs declaration, and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services, it helps accelerate China-Vietnam trade and provides higher-quality logistics options for enterprises in both countries.

08/21/2025 Logistics
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Africa Customs Clearance Key Tips to Avoid Common Delays

Africa Customs Clearance Key Tips to Avoid Common Delays

This article provides a detailed interpretation of customs clearance requirements in several African countries, including Sudan's sanctions documents, Tunisia's export declarations, Guinea's high-value parcel regulations, South Africa's restrictions on used goods, Namibia's telecommunications equipment certification, Reunion Island's destination selection, Liberia and Sierra Leone's bio-material exports, and Egypt's nutritional product import permits. It aims to help foreign trade practitioners avoid customs clearance pitfalls and ensure smooth delivery of goods.

WCO Issues Guidance for Consistent HS Commodity Classification

WCO Issues Guidance for Consistent HS Commodity Classification

The World Customs Organization (WCO) recommendations promote the implementation of Harmonized System (HS) resolutions, facilitating global trade and compliance. These recommendations, often discussed within the HS Committee, aim to provide clarity and consistency in customs classification. By adhering to WCO guidelines and HS resolutions, countries can streamline import and export processes, reduce trade barriers, and ensure accurate tariff application. This ultimately contributes to a more efficient and transparent international trading environment.