AI Enhances Customs Fraud Detection Curbing Tax Evasion

AI Enhances Customs Fraud Detection Curbing Tax Evasion

The DATE neural network model, developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), leverages a dual attention mechanism and tree-aware embedding techniques to effectively identify potential customs fraud transactions and improve inspection efficiency. Successfully piloted in Nigeria and open-sourced for use by customs administrations worldwide, this model has the potential to become a new tool in combating cross-border tax evasion. It offers a data-driven approach to detecting irregularities and enhancing risk assessment in international trade, ultimately contributing to fairer and more secure global commerce.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Revised Kyoto Convention Hits 113 Members Boosts Global Trade

Revised Kyoto Convention Hits 113 Members Boosts Global Trade

The Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) now has 113 contracting parties, with the Republic of Congo being the latest addition. This convention, recognized as the blueprint for modern customs by the international customs community, aims to simplify and harmonize customs procedures, thereby facilitating global trade. It emphasizes the application of information technology, risk management, enhanced cooperation with the trade community, and the establishment of accessible appeal systems. The WCO encourages more members to join and implement the convention's provisions to build a more competitive global economy.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Smart Security Devices Boost Global Trade Efficiency

Smart Security Devices Boost Global Trade Efficiency

A World Customs Organization (WCO) report reveals the profound impact of Smart Security Devices (SSDs) on international trade. SSDs reshape trade by enhancing cargo control, streamlining customs clearance, and ensuring supply chain security. The report emphasizes interoperability, standardization, and international cooperation as crucial for maximizing the potential of SSDs. It explores the advantages and disadvantages of different SSD types, providing guidance for building a safer and more efficient global trade system. This analysis highlights the transformative role of technology in securing and facilitating international commerce.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Saudi Arabia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked AEO Program

Saudi Arabia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked AEO Program

A World Customs Organization (WCO) expert team recently visited Saudi Arabia to provide AEO system capacity building training to the Saudi ZATCA. The training focused on key elements such as the SAFE Framework of Standards, risk management, and Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs). This initiative aims to assist Saudi Customs in optimizing AEO implementation, enhancing trade facilitation, and promoting economic diversification. By strengthening its AEO program, Saudi Arabia can improve efficiency, security, and predictability in its customs procedures, ultimately contributing to a more competitive and attractive business environment.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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East Africa Boosts Trade with Regional Audit Collaboration

East Africa Boosts Trade with Regional Audit Collaboration

With the support of the WCO/JICA joint project, the tax authorities of the five East African countries launched a senior trainer program for Post Clearance Audit (PCA) to enhance regional PCA capabilities and promote trade facilitation. By establishing a network of experts, improving training capabilities, and developing cooperation plans, customs administrations in East Africa will strengthen cooperation, address challenges, and contribute to regional economic development. The initiative aims to build a sustainable framework for PCA expertise and collaboration within the East African Community.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mali Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

Mali Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

With WCO support, Mali Customs initiated a competency-based human resource modernization reform. This aims to build a high-quality, professional workforce through a modern training system, career development system, and integrity policies. The goal is to enhance overall customs performance, strengthen organizational competitiveness, and promote Mali's sustainable economic development. This paper analyzes the reform's background, objectives, key achievements, challenges, and opportunities. It also proposes recommendations for an action plan to further the reform's success and ensure its long-term impact on the Malian customs administration.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Botswana Strengthens Environmental Customs Enforcement Under Global Pacts

Botswana Strengthens Environmental Customs Enforcement Under Global Pacts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with UNEP and others, held a workshop for Botswana Customs to enhance awareness of the Basel and Montreal Conventions and strengthen controls over the cross-border movement of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances. The workshop fostered cooperation between customs and environmental agencies. Further technical assistance is planned to support the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to bolster Botswana's capacity in enforcing environmental regulations and facilitating legitimate trade while preventing illegal trafficking of harmful materials.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Jamaica Customs Boosts Efficiency Through Leadership Overhaul

Jamaica Customs Boosts Efficiency Through Leadership Overhaul

The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA), with support from HMRC and the WCO, is driving management transformation through Leadership and Management Development (LMD) workshops. These workshops aim to enhance managers' leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills, fostering a people-centered, continuous learning, and high-performance organization. This is crucial for adapting to the challenges of the global trading environment. The JCA's practices offer valuable lessons for customs reform in other countries. The focus is on building capacity and creating a more effective and responsive customs administration.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a high-level Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) seminar in Nigeria, empowering customs administrations from four West African countries. By raising awareness of gender mainstreaming, focusing on gender and security issues, and utilizing the GEOAT tool, the seminar assisted customs departments in developing and implementing GED action plans. The aim is to promote trade security, inclusive development, and address the challenges faced by women in cross-border trade. This initiative strengthens customs capacity to better serve all members of society.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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