MENA Customs Enhances Regional Ties to Spur Economic Growth

MENA Customs Enhances Regional Ties to Spur Economic Growth

The inaugural meeting of the MENA Customs Resource Mobilization Working Group was successfully held in Bahrain. The meeting focused on enhancing regional customs administration capabilities, promoting trade facilitation, and fostering economic integration. Participants discussed strategies for resource mobilization to support customs modernization and efficiency improvements. The initiative aims to strengthen customs cooperation within the MENA region, contributing to sustainable economic growth and regional stability. Key topics included best practices in revenue collection, risk management, and the use of technology in customs operations.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Maldives Customs Boosts Leadership Skills Via WCO Program

Maldives Customs Boosts Leadership Skills Via WCO Program

The Maldives Customs Service (MCS) participated in the WCO Leadership and Management Development Program, organizing senior management workshops to enhance leadership skills and drive customs modernization. The workshops covered change management, strategic planning, and personnel management, emphasizing practicality and interaction. They fostered team building and a unified vision, laying the foundation for the future development of the MCS. The initiative aimed to equip leaders with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate challenges and effectively lead the organization through its modernization journey.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde Customs Modernizes with WCO Support

Cape Verde Customs Modernizes with WCO Support

The WCO, through the WACAM project, is assisting Cape Verde Customs in optimizing customs clearance procedures. A Time Release Study (TRS) was conducted to improve trade efficiency, reduce costs, and attract investment. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks in the clearance process and provide recommendations for streamlining procedures. This initiative supports Cape Verde's efforts to enhance its competitiveness and integrate more effectively into the global trading system. The focus is on faster release times, which directly benefits businesses and promotes economic growth.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Oman Customs Adopts WCO SAFE Framework to Boost Trade Security

Oman Customs Adopts WCO SAFE Framework to Boost Trade Security

In 2015, the World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Oman Customs in implementing the SAFE Framework and AEO program. Through workshops, Oman Customs officials gained a deeper understanding of supply chain security, customs-business partnerships, and the AEO implementation process, leading to the development of action plans. This initiative aims to enhance Oman's trade security and facilitation, strengthen its international competitiveness, and promote economic development. The implementation of SAFE and AEO will contribute to a more secure and efficient trade environment for Oman.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Customs Adopts Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

Burkina Faso Customs Adopts Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Burkina Faso in establishing an advance ruling mechanism to enhance trade predictability, reduce compliance costs, and improve customs efficiency. Through capacity building workshops and the WACAM project, the WCO supports Burkina Faso's customs modernization and promotes regional trade development. The establishment of this mechanism will improve the trade environment, foster economic growth, and serve as a reference for other African countries. The initiative aligns with global efforts to streamline trade processes and promote efficient customs operations.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Adopts WCO Program to Modernize Customs Boost Trade

Bahamas Adopts WCO Program to Modernize Customs Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization's (WCO) Mercator Program is assisting the Bahamas Customs Department (BCD) in its customs modernization efforts to support its accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Through gap analysis, process optimization, and the establishment of a Single Window system, the program aims to enhance trade facilitation in the Bahamas, strengthen its international competitiveness, and promote economic development. This initiative is crucial for streamlining customs procedures and fostering a more efficient and transparent trade environment in the Bahamas.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts New Project Management System

Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts New Project Management System

The Gambia Revenue Authority, with WCO support, developed a project management methodology to improve project efficiency, standardize processes, reduce risks, and optimize resource allocation. This initiative aims to enhance the Authority's ability to effectively manage and deliver projects related to tax reform and revenue collection. By implementing a structured approach, the GRA seeks to improve accountability, transparency, and ultimately, its overall performance in achieving its strategic objectives. The project management framework will also facilitate better coordination and communication among different departments and stakeholders.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Jamaica Customs Boosts Efficiency Via WCO UNCTAD Partnership

Jamaica Customs Boosts Efficiency Via WCO UNCTAD Partnership

The WCO and UNCTAD assisted the Jamaica Customs Agency in implementing ASYCUDA, enhancing data analysis and customs clearance efficiency, and promoting trade development. This initiative focused on modernizing customs procedures through improved data management and streamlined processes. The collaboration between international organizations and the Jamaica Customs Agency aims to facilitate smoother trade flows and contribute to economic growth. By leveraging ASYCUDA's capabilities, the agency can better analyze trade data, identify potential risks, and expedite the movement of goods across borders.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Port Houston Enhances Cargo Flow with Rail Upgrades

Port Houston Enhances Cargo Flow with Rail Upgrades

Union Pacific and BNSF Railway have launched new intermodal services at Port Houston, aiming to improve freight transportation efficiency and alleviate traffic congestion by streamlining processes and reducing truck drayage. This initiative will enhance Port Houston's competitiveness as the fifth-largest container port in the United States, offering businesses faster delivery times, lower transportation costs, and increased supply chain reliability. The new service is expected to benefit shippers moving goods through the port, providing a more efficient and sustainable transportation option.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Union Pacific Enhances Crossborder Trade Under USMCA

Union Pacific Enhances Crossborder Trade Under USMCA

Union Pacific Railroad has significantly reduced transit times for its cross-border intermodal service with Canadian National and Grupo México Transportes through operational improvements, particularly on the Eagle Pass to Chicago route. This initiative aims to enhance North American trade efficiency, address market competition, and capitalize on nearshoring opportunities, solidifying its market position. The optimized operations are expected to provide faster and more reliable service for customers, strengthening Union Pacific's role in facilitating seamless international trade flows within North America.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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