Gambia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

Gambia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to enhance trade facilitation. Through workshops and technical assistance, the WCO helped Gambia identify bottlenecks in cargo clearance, optimize customs procedures, and align with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The ultimate goal is to improve the business environment and promote sustainable economic development in Gambia. The TRS aims to streamline processes and reduce the time and cost associated with importing and exporting goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Coupang Enhances Seller Tools for Inventory Management

Coupang Enhances Seller Tools for Inventory Management

Coupang optimizes its CGF (Coupang Global Fulfillment) service, addressing challenges sellers face with CGF inventory discrepancies and product detail modifications. Sellers can now independently modify product details, but should pay attention to review status and potential rejections. For product delisting, sellers need to contact customer service for relisting assistance. This platform optimization aims to enhance seller operational efficiency and improve customer conversion rates. The improvements focus on providing sellers with more control and clarity over their CGF inventory and product listings.

12/30/2025 Logistics
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Bahrain Hosts Regional WTO Trade Facilitation Workshop

Bahrain Hosts Regional WTO Trade Facilitation Workshop

In 2015, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held the 3rd Regional Workshop on the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in Bahrain, aiming to promote understanding and implementation of the TFA in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The workshop brought together customs and trade experts to discuss key TFA provisions, technical assistance, institutional cooperation, and member case studies. During the event, Japan announced its ratification of the TFA, injecting new momentum into trade facilitation efforts in the MENA region.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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California Trucking Industry Disrupted by AB5 Legal Challenges

California Trucking Industry Disrupted by AB5 Legal Challenges

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals' ruling intensifies the challenges posed by California's AB-5 law to trucking companies. Businesses relying on independent contractors are significantly impacted. Companies need to reassess their employment structures, optimize operational models, seek legal assistance, and leverage technology to navigate the industry reshuffle and seize new opportunities. This necessitates a fundamental shift in how trucking companies in California operate, forcing them to adapt to the new legal landscape and potentially reshape their business strategies to remain competitive.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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DOJ Expands Whistleblower Program to Tackle Customs Fraud

DOJ Expands Whistleblower Program to Tackle Customs Fraud

The U.S. Department of Justice has expanded its pilot program for corporate whistleblower rewards to include customs fraud and tax evasion. Rewards can reach up to 30% of the forfeited amount. This aims to combat tax evasion tactics like misrepresenting the origin or misclassifying goods, maintaining a fair trade environment. Insiders and competitors with relevant information are encouraged to report, but should be aware of the risks and seek professional assistance. Companies should strengthen compliance operations to avoid legal pitfalls.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Helps Togo Increase Revenue by Tightening Customs Controls

WCO Helps Togo Increase Revenue by Tightening Customs Controls

The World Customs Organization (WCO) completed a three-phase capacity building assistance program for Togo Customs, aimed at helping the Togolese Revenue Office (OTR) reclaim outsourced customs valuation functions and enhance its valuation capabilities. The program, through diagnostic assessments, expert training, and the establishment of an electronic database, helped Togo Customs close tax loopholes and increase fiscal revenue, providing stronger financial support for national development. The initiative strengthened Togo's ability to accurately assess customs duties and improve overall customs administration.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Tanzania Upgrades Border Security with Smart Risk Management

Tanzania Upgrades Border Security with Smart Risk Management

Tanzania, with assistance from the World Customs Organization and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, is upgrading its customs risk management framework. This aims to enhance customs efficiency, promote trade facilitation, and combat smuggling through more precise risk identification and response. The upgrade is a significant step towards improving the country's customs administration and contributing to national economic development and trade security. The improved framework will allow for better resource allocation and targeted interventions, ultimately streamlining trade processes and reducing illicit activities.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WHO Ships Monkeypox Test Kits to Sri Lanka Under New Guidelines

WHO Ships Monkeypox Test Kits to Sri Lanka Under New Guidelines

This article details Sri Lanka's regulations regarding the import of monkeypox test kits. It explicitly states that mailing monkeypox test kits to Sri Lanka is prohibited and explains the rationale behind this restriction. The article provides guidance for individuals requiring monkeypox testing, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional medical assistance from healthcare facilities. Finally, it addresses frequently asked questions concerning issues such as entrusted carrying, returns, and potential future policy changes related to monkeypox test kit imports in Sri Lanka.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bangladesh Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with Stakeholder Talks

Bangladesh Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with Stakeholder Talks

The Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), jointly initiated by the World Customs Organization and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, has launched a specific assistance program for Bangladesh. This program aims to help Bangladesh Customs optimize goods release processes and improve trade efficiency. In-depth strategic dialogues were held on the issue of Time Release Study (TRS), and a comprehensive TRS work plan was developed to ensure the sustainability of goods release times and strengthen the autonomy of Bangladesh Customs.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sudan Customs Overhauls HR to Boost Trade Efficiency

Sudan Customs Overhauls HR to Boost Trade Efficiency

With the assistance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Sudanese Customs has launched a Human Resources modernization project. This initiative aims to enhance the professionalism and efficiency of the customs workforce by establishing a competency-based management system. The goal is to better serve national economic development and international trade security. The project encompasses assessing the current management situation, developing practical tools, formulating a roadmap, and providing ongoing expert support. This comprehensive approach seeks to transform HR practices within Sudanese Customs.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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