ISSA and AEO Certification Boost Global Trade Security

ISSA and AEO Certification Boost Global Trade Security

The ISSA Council discussed the integration of the ISSA Standard with the World Customs Organization's (WCO) Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) concept. By combining ISSA's quality standards with AEO certification, the aim is to enhance supply chain security, customs clearance efficiency, and business competitiveness, thereby facilitating global trade and healthy development. This collaboration will contribute to establishing a more transparent, efficient, and secure international trade environment. The synergy aims to streamline processes and foster trust among stakeholders within the global supply chain.

WCO Urges Global Trade Resilience at BASC Congress

WCO Urges Global Trade Resilience at BASC Congress

The WCO Deputy Secretary General highlighted the importance of international trade resilience at the 10th World BASC Congress. He presented the WCO's work in standardizing customs procedures, promoting international cooperation, and building capacity, with specific mention of the SAFE Framework and its positive impact on AEO programs. The WCO will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to address international trade challenges and promote global economic prosperity. The speech underscored the critical role of customs in ensuring secure and efficient global supply chains.

Georgia Joins Revised Kyoto Convention to Boost Trade

Georgia Joins Revised Kyoto Convention to Boost Trade

Georgia has officially joined the Revised Kyoto Convention, becoming its 116th contracting party, marking a significant step in its trade facilitation efforts. The Convention, considered the "gold standard" for global trade facilitation, promotes international trade development through simplified customs procedures and increased transparency. The World Customs Organization encourages more countries to join, working together to build an open and efficient global trade system. This accession highlights Georgia's commitment to streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth through adherence to international standards.

WCO Businesses Collaborate to Counter Global Trade Protectionism

WCO Businesses Collaborate to Counter Global Trade Protectionism

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) convened to discuss addressing trade protectionism, promoting trade facilitation, and regulating e-commerce. The meeting emphasized strengthening cooperation between customs and the private sector to jointly tackle global trade challenges and support economic and social development. Key topics included streamlining customs procedures, enhancing data exchange, and fostering a more predictable and transparent trading environment. The discussions highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in navigating the evolving landscape of international trade.

WCO Group Targets Doubled Customs Efficiency with Inspection Tech

WCO Group Targets Doubled Customs Efficiency with Inspection Tech

The 8th meeting of the World Customs Organization's Technical Expert Group on Non-Intrusive Inspection (TEG-NII) focused on the development of the Unified File Format (UFF) and NII-related matters, aiming to enhance customs supervision efficiency. The meeting emphasized the application of technologies such as big data and artificial intelligence, and discussed topics including radiation detection, data analysis, and centralized image analysis. The goal is to promote the modernization of global customs supervision and facilitate trade security and facilitation.

Moldova Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs System Upgrade

Moldova Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs System Upgrade

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, Moldovan Customs held a workshop on strategic planning and performance evaluation to enhance strategic alignment, governance, and accountability. Participants utilized tools like PESTLE and SWOT analysis to develop strategic objectives and KPIs. The WCO will continue to provide support, assisting Moldovan Customs in becoming a new engine for efficient trade. The workshop aimed to improve customs operations through better planning and performance measurement, ultimately contributing to increased trade facilitation and economic growth in Moldova.

WCO Updates Expert Guidance for Enhanced Capacity Building

WCO Updates Expert Guidance for Enhanced Capacity Building

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the new "WCO Expert Guidance" to provide comprehensive support to experts involved in capacity building missions. This guide covers pre-mission preparation, execution, post-mission follow-up, and administrative and financial rules. It aims to ensure that experts complete their tasks efficiently and in accordance with regulations, thereby contributing to global customs capacity building efforts. The guidance serves as a valuable resource for experts to enhance their effectiveness and impact on customs modernization worldwide.

WCO and OASIS Collaborate to Standardize Global Trade Tech

WCO and OASIS Collaborate to Standardize Global Trade Tech

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards (OASIS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote the adoption of technical standards by governments and the public sector worldwide, particularly in customs. This collaboration aims to streamline customs procedures and enhance trade efficiency using open IT technologies, ultimately building a secure and efficient supply chain. This signifies the dawn of a new era in trade driven by technical standards, fostering greater interoperability and transparency in global commerce.

Malawi Customs Strengthened Against Wildlife Trafficking

Malawi Customs Strengthened Against Wildlife Trafficking

The INAMA Project aims to enhance the capacity of Malawi Customs to combat illegal wildlife trade. Through diagnostic assessments, training implementation, and risk management workshops, the project assists Malawi Customs in building risk defenses. It strengthens cooperation with customs administrations of other countries to jointly address the global challenge of illegal wildlife trade, protect endangered species, maintain national security, and facilitate trade. The project ultimately contributes to a more secure and sustainable future by mitigating risks associated with wildlife trafficking.

Asiapacific Nations Boost Customs Cooperation at WCO Meeting

Asiapacific Nations Boost Customs Cooperation at WCO Meeting

The 32nd WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Contact Points Meeting was held in Australia, focusing on regional cooperation, strategic planning, and WCO policy updates. The meeting highlighted the importance of data strategy, green customs, and technology application. The aim is to strengthen customs cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, address global challenges, and promote trade security and facilitation. Discussions centered around enhancing information sharing, capacity building, and the implementation of international standards to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations across the region.