Lesotho Revenue Authority Modernizes Talent Management for Efficiency

Lesotho Revenue Authority Modernizes Talent Management for Efficiency

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) is implementing a competency-based human resource management system in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to enhance operational efficiency and tax revenue. WCO workshops and capacity-building support are helping LRA staff acquire modern HR management skills and develop action plans. With strong commitment from LRA leadership, talent management is poised to be a key driver in the tax department's transformation. This initiative signifies a significant step towards modernizing the LRA and improving its ability to meet its revenue collection goals.

Malawi Boosts Wildlife Trafficking Crackdown with WCO Aid

Malawi Boosts Wildlife Trafficking Crackdown with WCO Aid

The WCO is assisting the Malawi Revenue Authority in enhancing its intelligence capabilities to combat illegal wildlife trade. This support includes providing expert assistance and training to strengthen the implementation of the CITES convention. The initiative aims to build a global enforcement network to effectively address wildlife trafficking. By improving intelligence gathering and analysis, the Malawi Revenue Authority will be better equipped to identify and intercept shipments of illegal wildlife products, contributing to the protection of endangered species and the disruption of criminal networks involved in this illicit trade.

Gabon Enhances Customs Skills with WCO Training Program

Gabon Enhances Customs Skills with WCO Training Program

Under the WCO-WACAM project funded by the Swedish government, the Gabon Customs Administration successfully held a 'Train-the-Trainer' workshop. This significantly enhanced the capabilities of 23 participants in key areas such as customs valuation and tariffs. The project not only lays the foundation for a sustainable talent development system within Gabon Customs but also provides valuable lessons learned for other developing countries. The workshop aimed to empower participants to become effective trainers and contribute to the long-term strengthening of customs operations.

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.

Switzerland WCO Boost Ukraine Trade Efficiency

Switzerland WCO Boost Ukraine Trade Efficiency

Switzerland, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), has launched the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) to enhance the efficiency of Ukrainian Customs and improve the business environment. Based on the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and the WCO's Revised Kyoto Convention, the project provides technical assistance, capacity building, and resource support to help Ukraine achieve trade facilitation. This initiative aims to reduce costs for businesses, enhance competitiveness, promote foreign investment, and ultimately benefit consumers.

Georgia Enhances Customs Skills with WCO Classification Training

Georgia Enhances Customs Skills with WCO Classification Training

With the support of the WCO, Georgia hosted a national workshop on commodity classification, aimed at enhancing the institutional capacity of the Revenue Service and cultivating a core team of experts. Through theoretical learning, practical exercises, and expert exchanges, participants significantly improved their understanding and application of the HS, laying a solid foundation for the future development of Georgian Customs. This workshop also provides valuable experience for other countries seeking to improve their commodity classification expertise.

Europe Customs Chiefs Prioritize Digitalization to Boost Trade Compliance

Europe Customs Chiefs Prioritize Digitalization to Boost Trade Compliance

The 2019 WCO European Regional Heads of Customs Conference focused on topics such as regional transit system compatibility, performance measurement, e-commerce, and the WCO Strategic Plan. The meeting emphasized the importance of integrity and digital transformation, and also addressed the appointment of the new Head of the ROCB in Baku. The conference aimed to enhance the effectiveness of European customs administrations and promote regional trade development. The Russian Federal Customs Service was highly commended for its organizational work.

EMCCA Customs College Overhauls Strategy with WCO Backing

EMCCA Customs College Overhauls Strategy with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted the Inter-State School for Customs of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (ISSC-CEMAC) in reshaping its development strategy, aiming to modernize its training system through capacity building. The WCO's diagnostic assessment provided recommendations for ISSC improvements, and a new development strategy was jointly formulated to enhance the professional competence of regional customs officers and promote trade facilitation. The focus is on strengthening the ISSC's role as a key training hub for customs administrations in the CEMAC region.

WCO Program Enhances Asiapacific Trade Efficiency

WCO Program Enhances Asiapacific Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) recently held a successful pre-accreditation workshop on Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) for Asia-Pacific members. The workshop aimed to cultivate professionals capable of promoting regional trade facilitation and security. Through experience sharing, interactive practice, and personalized feedback, the event laid a foundation for a robust network of AEO experts. This initiative will assist WCO members in strengthening their AEO programs and building a secure and efficient global supply chain.

Azerbaijan Expands Trade Program with WCO Backing

Azerbaijan Expands Trade Program with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides technical assistance to Azerbaijan Customs to enhance its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. Through workshops, WCO experts and Azerbaijani Customs representatives discussed the effectiveness of the AEO program, expansion opportunities, and alignment with the SAFE Framework. The goal is to promote trade facilitation, improve supply chain security, and contribute to Azerbaijan's economic growth. The assistance aims to elevate the operational standards of Azerbaijan Customs.