Botswana Overhauls Tax Agency for Improved Efficiency

Botswana Overhauls Tax Agency for Improved Efficiency

The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS), in collaboration with the WCO, implemented a competency-based human resource management program. This initiative aimed to enhance organizational performance, improve employee engagement, and strengthen border management. The program focused on identifying and developing the necessary skills and knowledge for BURS staff to effectively carry out their duties, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and effective tax administration system in Botswana. The partnership with WCO provided valuable expertise and support in the design and implementation of the competency model.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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MENA Customs Boost Efficiency in Wcoled Workshop

MENA Customs Boost Efficiency in Wcoled Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on organizational performance evaluation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, aiming to enhance regional customs effectiveness. The workshop covered core topics such as strategic planning indicator design and work area planning. Qatar Customs shared their experience in business intelligence exploration. Based on WCO standards, this event assists customs administrations in the MENA region to improve management and promote regional trade development. This initiative aims to foster efficiency and collaboration within the customs community.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Border Security with Trade Control Training

WCO Enhances Border Security with Trade Control Training

The World Customs Organization's (WCO) Strategic Trade Control Enforcement (STCE) Expert Training and Certification Program aims to develop a professional workforce and enhance member customs' enforcement capabilities to combat the illicit trade of items related to weapons of mass destruction. Through systematic training and rigorous certification, the program builds a sustainable training system, promotes international cooperation, and drives the unification of STCE standards, contributing to global security. This initiative fosters a global network of trained experts dedicated to preventing the proliferation of sensitive goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

In 2017, Lao Customs officers participated in a training program on airport compliance and enforcement, supported by the World Customs Organization and sponsored by the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund. The training aimed to enhance Lao Customs' capabilities in passenger risk management. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, participants mastered key skills such as risk assessment, risk profiling, and target selection. They also learned practical methods including verbal and non-verbal risk assessment and questioning techniques. This initiative contributes to the modernization of Lao Customs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Zambia in Trade Facilitation Program Upgrade

WCO Backs Zambia in Trade Facilitation Program Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in establishing an internationally compliant Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to enhance trade facilitation. Through expert team support, remote guidance, and on-site validation, the WCO assists ZRA in optimizing its AEO program. The WCO also looks forward to future collaboration to further strengthen the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and promote regional economic development. This initiative aims to align ZRA's practices with global standards and boost its efficiency in facilitating international trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zimbabwe Zambia Boost Trade with Customs Data Link

Zimbabwe Zambia Boost Trade with Customs Data Link

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Zimbabwe and Zambia are advancing customs data interconnectivity to facilitate cross-border trade. By standardizing data, establishing data exchange protocols, and creating a change management framework, the two countries aim to reduce clearance times, lower trade costs, and enhance risk management capabilities. This initiative serves as a model for customs cooperation in other African nations, promoting regional economic integration. The project emphasizes streamlined processes and improved efficiency, ultimately contributing to a more competitive and integrated trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Aviation Board Advances Data Standards for Digital Transformation

Aviation Board Advances Data Standards for Digital Transformation

IATA's ATSB is dedicated to developing aviation data exchange standards, promoting interconnectivity and digital transformation. The Open API Working Group is building a 'common language' to facilitate industry collaboration. This initiative aims to streamline data sharing and improve operational efficiency across the aviation sector by establishing standardized protocols and interfaces. The focus is on creating a more connected and data-driven ecosystem within the industry, ultimately leading to enhanced decision-making and improved passenger experiences. The 'common language' fosters interoperability between different systems and stakeholders.

01/08/2026 Airlines
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China Southern Expands UK Cargo Routes with Glasgow Service

China Southern Expands UK Cargo Routes with Glasgow Service

China Southern Cargo has launched a new cargo route from Guangzhou to Glasgow Prestwick Airport, initially operating four times a week with plans to increase to daily flights. This initiative aims to enhance the airport's cargo capacity and boost trade between China and the UK, particularly for Scottish seafood and whisky exports to China. The airport has invested in upgraded equipment and is in discussions with other airlines for potential collaborations, with the ambition of becoming a key air bridge connecting China and Scotland.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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Hershey Invests 250M to Modernize Supply Chain

Hershey Invests 250M to Modernize Supply Chain

Hershey is investing $250 million in a supply chain upgrade focused on boosting operational efficiency and agility through digitalization and automation. The plan encompasses optimizing sourcing and manufacturing, accelerating R&D and planning, and integrating existing business units onto the SAP S/4 HANA platform. Expected to be completed in 2026, the initiative is projected to yield $300 million in annual savings, with 30% attributed to supply chain productivity gains. This transformation aims to create a more responsive and efficient supply chain for the company.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Kraft Heinz Microsoft Partner to Digitize Food Supply Chain

Kraft Heinz Microsoft Partner to Digitize Food Supply Chain

Kraft Heinz is partnering with Microsoft to build a "Supply Chain Control Tower" and "Digital Twin" factories using Azure and other technologies. This initiative aims to enhance supply chain visibility, mitigate disruption risks, and accelerate product launches. The move is part of Kraft Heinz's "Agile@Scale" transformation strategy, focused on building a leading technology ecosystem, reshaping digital manufacturing capabilities, and co-innovating with consumers and customers. The partnership seeks to create a more resilient and responsive supply chain, ultimately improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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