Tunisia Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

Tunisia Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a national workshop on Post Clearance Audit (PCA) in Tunisia, aiming to enhance the Tunisian Customs' PCA capabilities. The workshop covered WCO guidelines interpretation, human resource management, case studies, and group discussions. It assisted Tunisian Customs in optimizing audit processes, addressing risks in complex trade environments, and promoting economic development. The training sought to improve efficiency and effectiveness in identifying and addressing compliance issues after goods have been released, contributing to a more secure and predictable trade environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Tanzania Adopts WCO Program to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Tanzania Adopts WCO Program to Enhance Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) in implementing Post Clearance Audit (PCA) through a capacity building workshop. This initiative aimed to optimize the PCA framework, enhance risk identification and analysis capabilities, and promote trade facilitation. The activity was part of the Swedish government-funded Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, designed to assist Sub-Saharan African countries in improving customs efficiency and achieving sustainable development. The workshop provided valuable training and resources to TRA officials, fostering a more streamlined and effective customs process.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bangladesh Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Study

Bangladesh Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) held a strategic dialogue with the National Board of Revenue (NBR) of Bangladesh in February 2021 to strengthen Bangladesh's Time Release Study (TRS) capabilities. The meeting reviewed Bangladesh Customs' TRS experience and developed a future action plan to improve clearance efficiency and promote trade facilitation. The aim is to streamline processes and reduce the time required for goods to be released from customs control, ultimately boosting trade competitiveness.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Data Analytics Boosts Efficiency in Global Air Cargo

Data Analytics Boosts Efficiency in Global Air Cargo

This paper analyzes the entire international air freight line process from a data analyst's perspective, revealing the data-driven strategies behind its efficient operation. From front-end cargo preparation and capacity matching to back-end customs clearance and last-mile delivery, data analysis enables intelligent decision-making in each step, improving efficiency and reducing costs. Building an intelligent air freight line ecosystem, achieving data sharing, real-time monitoring, and continuous optimization, is crucial for enhancing competitiveness. This data-centric approach optimizes the entire logistics chain.

01/05/2026 Logistics
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Francophone Customs Chiefs Meet in Dakar to Boost Trade Curb Smuggling

Francophone Customs Chiefs Meet in Dakar to Boost Trade Curb Smuggling

The 19th Conference of Heads of Customs Administrations of French-Speaking Countries was held in Senegal, focusing on trade facilitation, economic competitiveness, and customs cooperation in combating illicit trade. The conference adopted the 'Dakar Declaration,' which proposes ten recommendations aimed at simplifying customs clearance procedures, strengthening information sharing, deepening regional cooperation, and improving personnel skills. The WCO pledged its support and will establish a follow-up monitoring system. The Prime Minister of Senegal expressed appreciation and encouragement for the work of customs officials from French-speaking countries.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advocates Data Standards to Boost Cruise Industry Efficiency

WCO Advocates Data Standards to Boost Cruise Industry Efficiency

The 3rd WCO Working Group on Passenger Facilitation and Control focused on standardizing global maritime passenger data to improve cruise clearance efficiency and security, aiding industry recovery. Discussions covered data standards, best practice guidelines, and the crucial role of customs in restoring international travel. The meeting emphasized international cooperation to address challenges and provide safer, more convenient travel experiences for global passengers. The goal is to streamline processes and enhance security measures within the cruise industry, ultimately contributing to its revitalization and long-term sustainability.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Maldives Customs Modernizes Risk Management After WCO Report

Maldives Customs Modernizes Risk Management After WCO Report

The World Customs Organization (WCO) presented a diagnostic report to the Maldives Customs Service, highlighting areas for improvement in customs valuation, post-clearance audit, and risk management. The report recommended establishing a robust risk management system, optimizing valuation processes, and upgrading audit methodologies. The Commissioner General of Maldives Customs pledged to develop an action plan based on the recommendations to enhance customs efficiency and transparency, ultimately fostering economic development. This initiative aims to modernize customs operations and facilitate smoother trade flows for the Maldives.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Adopt WCO Initiative to Fight Counterfeiting

Global Customs Adopt WCO Initiative to Fight Counterfeiting

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the "IPM Connected" initiative to combat counterfeit goods by connecting global track-and-trace and authentication solutions. The program utilizes technologies such as handheld device scanning and data docking to enable rapid verification of product authenticity, providing customs and brand owners with safer, faster, and more cost-effective clearance services. The WCO encourages more organizations to join and collectively build a global anti-counterfeiting ecosystem. This collaborative effort aims to streamline processes and enhance the fight against illicit trade worldwide.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Hidden Costs Challenge Small Parcel Shipping Globally

Hidden Costs Challenge Small Parcel Shipping Globally

International small packet shipping costs are often unexpectedly high due to hidden costs. This article reveals additional fees in the transportation process, such as volumetric weight, remote area surcharges, and fuel surcharges. It also uncovers potential costs in customs clearance, including prepaid duties, return fees, and declaration discrepancies. Practical guidelines are provided to help cross-border e-commerce sellers mitigate these risks and reduce logistics costs. By understanding and planning for these hidden expenses, sellers can improve their profit margins and avoid unexpected financial burdens.

12/30/2025 Logistics
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Air Freight Prices Fluctuate on Mondays and Fridays

Air Freight Prices Fluctuate on Mondays and Fridays

Price differences in international air freight between Mondays and Fridays stem from a combination of supply and demand, costs, and market strategies. High demand and operational costs on Fridays lead to increased prices due to airlines' dynamic pricing. While Mondays offer lower prices, they pose risks regarding timeliness and customs clearance. Shippers should flexibly choose shipping times, such as Tuesdays to Thursdays for small to medium-sized cargo, securing Monday morning flights for large shipments, and avoiding Friday afternoons for urgent goods to optimize costs and efficiency.

12/30/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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