Colombia Customs Businesses Collaborate to Streamline Trade

Colombia Customs Businesses Collaborate to Streamline Trade

With the support of SECO-WCO GTFP, Colombian Customs hosted a trade facilitation forum. The forum focused on the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, shared experiences from Abu Dhabi's customs reform, and explored the impact of disruptive technologies on the future of customs. The goal was to support DIAN's customs transformation, creating an efficient, transparent, and modern customs system. Ultimately, this initiative aims to promote trade development in Colombia by streamlining processes and embracing innovation within the customs framework.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Antiillegal Logging Efforts with New Tools

WCO Enhances Antiillegal Logging Efforts with New Tools

On the occasion of the 2024 International Day of Forests, this article highlights the crucial role of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in combating illegal timber trade. Through international cooperation, updating the Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature, and conducting 'Operation Thunder', the WCO helps customs administrations enhance their enforcement capabilities. By utilizing innovative technologies such as Geographic Information Systems, GPS trackers, and drones, the WCO effectively monitors timber trade, protects forest resources, and collectively safeguards our planet.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaraguas AEO Program Boosts Trade Efficiency Reduces Costs

Nicaraguas AEO Program Boosts Trade Efficiency Reduces Costs

Nicaragua is actively promoting the AEO program to improve customs clearance efficiency and reduce trade costs. Supported by the WCO-Norad project and aligned with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, the program certifies businesses to enjoy benefits like prioritized inspection and simplified documentation. Participation in the AEO program can lower operating costs, improve efficiency, and enhance credibility, allowing companies to stand out in the market. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes and foster economic growth within Nicaragua.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Thailand South Korea Sign AEO Trade Facilitation Deal

Thailand South Korea Sign AEO Trade Facilitation Deal

Thailand and South Korea Customs signed an AEO Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) to facilitate bilateral trade by mutually recognizing AEO enterprise qualifications. This includes reduced inspection rates, priority customs clearance, and simplified documentation. The agreement provides opportunities for businesses to expand into international markets and encourages them to actively apply for AEO certification, strengthen internal management, and familiarize themselves with the MRA to fully leverage its benefits. This collaboration aims to boost trade efficiency and competitiveness for both countries.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Launches Electronic Trade Transit System

West Africa Launches Electronic Trade Transit System

Five West African nations are jointly developing an electronic transit system to streamline processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, thereby promoting regional economic integration and supporting trade facilitation agreements. This initiative aims to modernize customs procedures and enhance the movement of goods within the region, fostering economic growth and attracting investment. By leveraging technology, the system seeks to overcome existing bottlenecks and create a more predictable and transparent trade environment for businesses operating in West Africa.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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El Salvador Upgrades Customs Labs to Boost Trade Efficiency

El Salvador Upgrades Customs Labs to Boost Trade Efficiency

El Salvador hosted a workshop on modernizing customs laboratories to enhance commodity classification capabilities and promote trade facilitation. Sponsored by the World Customs Organization (WCO), the workshop focused on the Harmonized System (HS) classification and international cooperation. The aim was to improve the accuracy and efficiency of customs procedures, ultimately contributing to smoother and faster trade flows. This initiative underscores the importance of modern customs infrastructure and skilled personnel in supporting global trade and economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases Arabic Audit Guide to Enhance Middle East Trade Compliance

WCO Releases Arabic Audit Guide to Enhance Middle East Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released the Arabic version of the 'Post-Clearance Audit Guidelines' to assist Arabic-speaking members in effectively implementing post-clearance audits, enhancing trade compliance, optimizing customs control, and promoting international trade facilitation. Translated by Jordan Customs, the guidelines cover risk management, operational guidance, and digital transformation, contributing to the construction of an intelligent, efficient, and collaborative post-clearance audit system. This aims to improve overall customs effectiveness and streamline trade processes within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Boost Customs Valuation Training in Southern Africa

WCO JICA Boost Customs Valuation Training in Southern Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) joint project is progressing in Southern Africa. The 3rd Working Group activity of the Customs Valuation (CV) Master Trainer Programme (MTP) aimed to enhance the customs valuation capabilities of Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. The project focuses on developing a regional pool of trainers and creating training materials. This initiative seeks to promote fairness and efficiency in international trade by strengthening customs valuation expertise within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mexicos ASC Boosts Freight Competitiveness with Training

Mexicos ASC Boosts Freight Competitiveness with Training

ASC CAPACITACIÓN Y CONSULTORÍA EN CARGA INTERNACIONAL SA DE CV is a Mexican organization specializing in international freight training and consulting, empowering businesses to enhance their competitiveness. Their services encompass professional training, customized consulting, compliance assessments, and risk management. They aim to help companies optimize freight processes, reduce costs, and ensure regulatory compliance. By providing expert guidance and tailored solutions, ASC helps businesses navigate the complexities of international shipping and achieve greater efficiency in their global supply chains.

01/05/2026 Airlines
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New IATA Tool Helps Businesses Track Carbon Emissions

New IATA Tool Helps Businesses Track Carbon Emissions

This paper delves into carbon emission calculators, specifically IATA CO2 Connect, and how they assist companies in achieving sustainability goals. CO2 Connect enables businesses to formulate greener travel policies, improve environmental performance, enhance brand reputation, and support Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies by accurately quantifying aviation carbon emissions. It empowers organizations to understand their carbon footprint associated with air travel, allowing for informed decisions and contributing to a more sustainable future for the aviation industry and the planet.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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