Accra Port is the main harbor of Ghana, located along the Gulf of Guinea, playing a vital role in maritime trade and commerce. It serves as the center of the nation's economy and culture, supported by a robust industrial base and transportation network. The climate and demographic structure of Accra provide favorable conditions for the port's development.
The WCO and UNCTAD are supporting Ghana in enhancing its trade facilitation capabilities to implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, improve its trade environment, and promote economic development. Funding support is provided by the UK's HMRC. This initiative aims to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and boost Ghana's competitiveness in the global market. By strengthening institutional capacity and promoting international cooperation, the project contributes to sustainable economic growth and regional integration.
Kumasi Airport, located in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, serves as a key domestic aviation hub. After its reconstruction in 2015, the airport offers modern services and facilities, linking to the capital city, Accra. With an elevation of 287 meters and a runway length of 1982 meters, its capacity has continually increased, making it the second busiest airport in Ghana.
The 300,000-ton bulk carrier "CBS Se Wol" is scheduled to arrive at the Port of Takoradi, Ghana, on January 27th, setting a new berthing record for West African ports. This will support Ghana Manganese Company in achieving its export targets, enhance the bulk cargo handling capacity of the Port of Takoradi, and solidify Ghana's position in West African maritime transportation. The port has implemented various measures to ensure safe berthing of the vessel.
Winneba Port, situated in the Central Region of Ghana, is a historic port city. It serves as a vital fishing harbor and local commercial hub, as well as a key node on important shipping routes in West Africa. Explore Winneba Port to experience its unique charm and economic vitality.
WCO, in collaboration with the Belgian Customs Academy, provides training to African customs officials to enhance their capabilities. Recently, officials visited the WCO headquarters to deepen cooperation, focusing on areas such as digital transformation. This partnership aims to strengthen customs administration in Africa and facilitate trade by building a skilled workforce and promoting modern practices. The collaboration underscores the WCO's commitment to supporting Africa's development through effective customs management and capacity building initiatives.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Belgian Customs Academy (BCS) have deepened their collaboration to provide enhanced training for customs officials from French-speaking African countries. The training covers the WCO's latest tools and issues. This initiative aims to improve customs management capabilities in Africa, promote regional trade development, and serve as a model for global customs capacity building. The partnership underscores the commitment to strengthening customs administrations and fostering a more efficient and secure global trade environment.
This paper analyzes a capacity-building program for Francophone African customs officials, a collaboration between the Belgian Customs Academy and the World Customs Organization. The program, employing methods like curriculum supplementation, field visits, and virtual reality training, aims to enhance the professional skills of African customs officials and their ability to navigate complex trade environments. The article highlights the importance of regional cooperation, localized application, technological innovation, and evaluation mechanisms in capacity building. It also provides relevant recommendations for improving future programs.
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.
Data from Qingdao Customs shows a significant improvement in customs clearance efficiency for foreign trade enterprises dealing with South Korea, with sea freight times reduced by 34.78% and air freight times increased by 71.43%. This progress is driven by policy benefits and technological innovation, particularly the AEO mutual recognition policy and the consolidated tax reform. Additionally, modern technologies such as the Internet of Things have greatly enhanced customs efficiency, significantly lowering business costs.
