WCO Advances Customs Modernization with Updated ECP Plan

WCO Advances Customs Modernization with Updated ECP Plan

The WCO's revised Phase IV of the ECP Action Plan aims to advance global customs modernization and promote trade facilitation and security. This is achieved through initiatives like compiling transit trade best practices, revising data model guidelines, focusing on Small Island Economies, researching Special Customs Zones, reviewing the Kyoto Convention, exploring rail customs procedures, developing PLACI guiding principles, aligning AEO with ICAO programs, and updating the disruptive technology report. These efforts collectively contribute to a more efficient and secure global trade environment.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New HS 2028 Codes Target Plastic Waste Trade for Environmental Compliance

New HS 2028 Codes Target Plastic Waste Trade for Environmental Compliance

The HS 2028 customs coding system has been updated to include specific subheadings for plastic waste. This enhancement allows for more accurate identification and tracking of transboundary movements of hazardous plastic waste. This update assists customs authorities and businesses in effectively implementing the Basel Convention, contributing to global efforts to address the growing plastic pollution crisis. The new subheadings provide a more granular level of detail, enabling better monitoring and control of plastic waste shipments and supporting international cooperation in environmental protection.

02/12/2026 HS Code Query
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Comoros Customs Adopts Harmonized System to Boost Trade

Comoros Customs Adopts Harmonized System to Boost Trade

Comoros Customs is actively preparing for the early application of the Harmonized System Convention. Through capacity-building programs funded by the African Development Bank, Customs officers are enhancing their understanding and application of the latest HS. This initiative aims to simplify customs procedures, improve trade efficiency, promote trade facilitation, and boost Comoros' international competitiveness. Support from COMESA experts will ensure the smooth integration of the HS into the customs system, laying the foundation for Comoros' integration into the global trading system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Boosts Customs Intelligence to Curb Wildlife Trafficking

Malawi Boosts Customs Intelligence to Curb Wildlife Trafficking

The World Customs Organization (WCO) continues to support the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) in strengthening its intelligence functions to enhance its risk management capabilities in combating illegal wildlife trade. Through the WCO-INAMA project, the MRA has optimized its business processes and job responsibilities, laying the foundation for the implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This initiative is of great significance for the ecological security of Malawi and the world.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Intensify Crackdown on Plastic Waste

Asiapacific Customs Intensify Crackdown on Plastic Waste

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted virtual diagnostic missions to Indonesian and Philippine Customs to address the growing problem of illegal plastic waste trade in the Asia-Pacific region. The missions aimed to enhance their capacity to manage legal imports, curb illegal shipments, and promote the Basel Convention amendment. Through self-assessments, expert consultations, and tailored implementation plans, the WCO supports Asia-Pacific Customs in comprehensively improving their capabilities at both strategic and tactical levels to collectively address the plastic waste challenge.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances African Customs Risk Management Against Illegal Wildlife Trade

WCO Enhances African Customs Risk Management Against Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the "Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization Programme for Sustainable Development in Sub-Saharan Africa," supports Customs administrations and national environmental agencies in the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The program develops risk indicators for goods and substances controlled by the Montreal Protocol and the Basel Convention. This aims to combat the illegal cross-border movement and trade of hazardous waste, thus maintaining the sustainability of the global environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Boosts Customs with Wcobacked Reforms

Burkina Faso Boosts Customs with Wcobacked Reforms

With support from the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Burkina Faso to assist the country in implementing the revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) and the SAFE Framework. The workshop focused on the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, providing practical guidance on the RKC and AEO for customs officials and private sector representatives of Burkina Faso. It also helped develop action plans to improve customs administration and promote international trade development in Burkina Faso.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New HS 2028 Rules Target Global Plastic Waste

New HS 2028 Rules Target Global Plastic Waste

To address the growing plastic pollution crisis, the HS 2028 version introduces new subheadings designed to enhance the monitoring of plastic waste flows and assist countries in better implementing the Basel Convention. These new regulations provide clearer guidance for customs enforcement and corporate compliance through more refined classifications, potentially curbing the illegal transboundary movement of plastic waste. This update aims to improve the tracking and management of plastic waste, contributing to global efforts to reduce plastic pollution and promote responsible waste management practices.

02/06/2026 HS Code Query
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ATA and Istanbul Conventions Adopt Digital Trade Measures

ATA and Istanbul Conventions Adopt Digital Trade Measures

The ATA & Istanbul Conventions Conference focused on the electronic transformation of ATA Carnets and the conventions themselves. The aim is to simplify customs procedures, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, ultimately facilitating international trade. Digitalization promises streamlined processes, faster clearance times, and enhanced data security. This shift towards electronic systems aligns with global efforts to modernize trade and promote greater economic cooperation by removing trade barriers and fostering a more efficient and transparent environment for businesses.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Mastering VGM Compliance for Safer Cargo Shipping

Guide to Mastering VGM Compliance for Safer Cargo Shipping

This paper elaborates on the definition, declaration process, responsible parties, and precautions of VGM (Verified Gross Mass). It aims to assist shippers and related parties in accurately and timely submitting VGM information to ensure the safety and efficiency of cargo transportation and avoid delays and additional costs arising from non-compliant VGM declarations. The paper provides a detailed explanation of the VGM requirements under the SOLAS Convention and its impact on container shipping operations, emphasizing the importance of accurate weight verification for safe and compliant transport.

09/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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