Gambia Revenue Authority Boosts HR Management with WACAM Support

Gambia Revenue Authority Boosts HR Management with WACAM Support

With support from the WACAM project funded by the Swedish government, the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) pioneered the implementation of the WCO's competency-based Human Resource Management approach in West and Central Africa. A WCO expert team conducted a comprehensive review of GRA's key HR management tools, providing recommendations for improvement and an implementation plan. Modernizing HR management at GRA will enhance tax administration efficiency, optimize taxpayer services, and foster regional cooperation. This initiative marks a significant step towards improved governance and revenue collection in the region.

WCO Strengthens Risk Management for Middle Corridor Trade in Central Asia Caucasus

WCO Strengthens Risk Management for Middle Corridor Trade in Central Asia Caucasus

The WCO and JICA collaborated to enhance customs risk management capabilities in the Central Asia and Caucasus region. A training program was held in Georgia to develop Master Trainers, aiming to ensure the smooth operation of the 'Middle Corridor'. This initiative focuses on strengthening regional customs expertise and facilitating efficient trade flows along this crucial trade route. The program supports improved risk assessment and management practices within customs administrations, contributing to secure and efficient border procedures.

Madagascar Customs Enhances Trade Via WCO Training Program

Madagascar Customs Enhances Trade Via WCO Training Program

The WCO is supporting the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) in talent development, enhancing human resource management, and addressing trade facilitation challenges. This support includes the launch of an e-learning platform to promote sustainable development. The initiative aims to strengthen the MRA's capabilities in key areas, enabling them to better manage their workforce and streamline trade processes. By investing in talent and providing modern learning tools, the WCO and MRA are working together to create a more efficient and effective customs environment in Malawi.

Barbados Adopts Peoplecentric Customs Reform with WCO Support

Barbados Adopts Peoplecentric Customs Reform with WCO Support

The WCO is assisting Barbados Customs with reforms to enhance human resource management and build a high-performing customs administration that serves national development. This initiative focuses on modernizing customs practices and strengthening the skills and capabilities of customs officers. Ultimately, the goal is to create a more efficient and effective customs service that contributes significantly to Barbados' economic growth and security. The project aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce trade costs, and enhance border security through targeted training and process improvements.

Cameroon Boosts Afcfta Customs Rules with WCO Backing

Cameroon Boosts Afcfta Customs Rules with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on Rules of Origin (RoO) for the AfCFTA in Cameroon, aiming to enhance the understanding and application of these rules by Cameroonian Customs and the private sector. The workshop covered principles of rule-making, specific provisions, and operational issues. It seeks to promote trade development between Cameroon and other African countries, contributing to African economic integration. The initiative underscores the importance of RoO in facilitating trade and ensuring the benefits of the AfCFTA are realized effectively.

WCO Belgian Customs Academy Train African Officials

WCO Belgian Customs Academy Train African Officials

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Belgian Customs School (BCS) are deepening their collaboration to provide tailored training for customs officials from French-speaking African countries. This includes visits to the WCO headquarters and upgraded BCS courses, aiming to enhance their professional capabilities. This initiative intends to better serve African economic development and provide a model for global customs cooperation. The partnership underscores the commitment to strengthening customs administrations in Africa and fostering a more efficient and effective global trade environment.

WCO Launches Gender Equality Program for Frenchspeaking Regions

WCO Launches Gender Equality Program for Frenchspeaking Regions

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a French-speaking “Training of Trainers” workshop to enhance gender equality capacity among its members, aiming to establish a pool of recognized experts in the field. The workshop focused on WCO gender equality tools, such as the GEOAT, and blended learning packages, emphasizing the importance of diagnostics, frameworks, and monitoring & evaluation. The WCO looks forward to collaborating with the newly trained experts to promote gender equality within customs systems globally.

WCO Enhances Customs Training in Francophone Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Training in Francophone Africa

With EU funding, the WCO held a workshop in Burkina Faso to enhance the expertise of Customs administrations in French-speaking African countries, specifically in areas like commodity classification. The training aimed to improve customs efficiency and contribute to trade facilitation within the region. The workshop focused on practical skills and knowledge transfer to strengthen customs operations and promote smoother trade flows. This initiative underscores the WCO's commitment to supporting its members in Africa and fostering economic development through improved customs practices.

Morocco Becomes Key Hub for Chinese Battery Material Firms

Morocco Becomes Key Hub for Chinese Battery Material Firms

Morocco, with its advantageous geographical location, abundant phosphate resources, improving business environment, and deep cooperation with China under the Belt and Road Initiative, is becoming a crucial strategic hub for Chinese lithium battery material companies entering the European market. Companies like CNGR Advanced Material and Huayou Cobalt are investing in factories in Morocco. The booming e-commerce and digital payments further indicate a promising future for China-Morocco cooperation. This collaboration is poised for significant expansion and development in the years to come.

Cold Chain Industry Adapts to Dry Ice Shortage with New Solutions

Cold Chain Industry Adapts to Dry Ice Shortage with New Solutions

The shortage of dry ice due to tight carbon dioxide supplies poses a challenge for cold chain packaging companies. To address this, companies are actively innovating by developing new phase change material packaging, exploring alternative coolants, and optimizing packaging designs to reduce reliance on dry ice. These efforts aim to enhance safety and sustainability while driving the development of the cold chain logistics industry. The focus is on finding effective and environmentally friendly solutions to maintain temperature control during transportation and storage, despite the dry ice limitations.