Pacific Islands Boost Customs Skills with Trainer Program

Pacific Islands Boost Customs Skills with Trainer Program

The WCO-JICA MTP project focuses on developing customs trainers in Pacific Island Countries, aiming to enhance their skills in valuation and classification. This initiative contributes to improved customs administration and ultimately facilitates regional trade. Through comprehensive training programs and knowledge transfer, the project empowers local customs officials to effectively implement international standards and best practices. This leads to more efficient border procedures and a more predictable trading environment, supporting economic growth and regional integration within the Pacific region.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Boost Customs Revenue in Pacific Islands

WCO JICA Boost Customs Revenue in Pacific Islands

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), launched the Pacific Islands Customs "Professional Mentoring Framework" (PMF) to enhance customs modernization in the region. A preparatory meeting identified customs valuation and commodity classification as priority areas. The project's success hinges on accurate needs assessments, practical training content, diverse training methods, scientific impact evaluation, and ensuring sustainability. The PMF aims to build capacity and improve tax administration through effective mentorship and targeted training programs.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Boost Customs Training in Pacific Islands

WCO JICA Boost Customs Training in Pacific Islands

The WCO/JICA joint project implements an Advanced Training of Trainers program in Pacific Island Countries. It aims to enhance the autonomous training capabilities of these countries' customs administrations in areas like customs valuation and commodity classification. This is achieved by building a regional pool of trainers and developing customized training materials. Ultimately, the project contributes to regional economic development by strengthening customs expertise and promoting efficient trade practices within the Pacific Island region.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Islands Boost Tax Revenue with Regional Training

Pacific Islands Boost Tax Revenue with Regional Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), launched the 'Master Training Program (MTP)' to enhance the revenue management capacity of Customs administrations in Pacific Island Countries. The program focuses on developing tax experts and improving the accuracy of customs valuation and HS code classification, thereby promoting trade facilitation and sustainable economic development. Pacific Island Customs administrations have identified revenue-related issues as a primary focus of the MTP.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Japanfunded Project Enhances Pacific Islands Disaster Customs Response

Japanfunded Project Enhances Pacific Islands Disaster Customs Response

Funded by the Japanese government through the WCO COVID-19 Project, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop to enhance the capacity of Pacific Island countries' customs administrations to expedite the clearance of relief goods during natural disasters and other emergencies. The workshop fostered international cooperation, promoted regulatory updates and process optimization, and improved the professional skills of customs officers. This initiative aims to build a robust barrier for the region to cope with potential future natural disasters by strengthening customs' ability to respond effectively.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Airport Opens on Mitiaro Island Boosting South Pacific Tourism

New Airport Opens on Mitiaro Island Boosting South Pacific Tourism

Mitiaro Airport (MOI/NCMR) is a vital transportation hub in the Cook Islands, connecting remote islands. It plays a crucial role in facilitating tourism, enabling access for visitors to explore the island's unique culture and natural beauty. Furthermore, the airport provides essential air links for medical services, ensuring timely access to healthcare for residents of Mitiaro and neighboring islands. Its strategic location and operational capabilities make it indispensable for the region's connectivity and well-being.

01/27/2026 Airport Codes
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Guide to Trade Opportunities at Aitutakis Arutanga Harbour

Guide to Trade Opportunities at Aitutakis Arutanga Harbour

This article focuses on Avarua Harbour in the Cook Islands, detailing its geographical location, port type, shipping lines, and UN/LOCODE. It also briefly lists other significant seaports in the Cook Islands. The aim is to provide readers with a port selection reference for South Pacific trade, facilitating smooth trade routes. The information presented aids in understanding the logistical aspects of shipping within the Cook Islands and offers valuable insights for businesses involved in international trade in the region.

09/29/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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