WCO and IDB Partner to Enhance Latin American Trade

WCO and IDB Partner to Enhance Latin American Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) participated in a policy dialogue with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), sharing trade facilitation experiences to support trade development in Latin America. Key initiatives highlighted included the Single Window, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and the Mercator Program. The WCO emphasized the importance of international cooperation in promoting global trade. The dialogue aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange to enhance trade efficiency and security within the Latin American region and beyond.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Tax Exemption Codes Explained: Key Factors for Smooth Import and Export

Customs Tax Exemption Codes Explained: Key Factors for Smooth Import and Export

This article discusses the classification and coding structure of customs duty exemption codes, detailing types of import and export goods such as general taxation, gratuitous aid, and other statutory tax reductions. By clarifying the definitions, codes, and applicable ranges for various types of goods, it aids relevant personnel in effectively understanding customs policies, thereby facilitating smooth international trade.

07/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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WCO Launches Enhanced Trade Efficiency Training Course

WCO Launches Enhanced Trade Efficiency Training Course

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched an upgraded Time Release Study (TRS) CLiKC! course, designed to help customs administrations measure cargo release times, optimize processes, and improve efficiency. The course covers all phases of the TRS methodology, emphasizing practical application through case studies, exercises, and role-playing to enhance participants' skills. This initiative supports trade facilitation and benefits the global economy. WCO members can access the course for free on the CLiKC! platform. It aims to enhance customs efficiency and reduce release times for goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Hosts Workshop on Trade Modernization Reforms

Burkina Faso Hosts Workshop on Trade Modernization Reforms

With support from Japan, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a seminar in Burkina Faso to promote the implementation of the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC). The seminar aimed to enhance customs efficiency and facilitate integration into global trade. The RKC is a key international instrument for simplifying and harmonizing customs procedures. By adopting the RKC and implementing programs like Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification, countries can streamline trade processes, reduce costs, and improve security. This initiative contributes to broader trade facilitation efforts and supports economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Revised Kyoto Convention Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

Revised Kyoto Convention Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

The 23rd session of the World Customs Organization's (WCO) Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) Management Committee marked a crucial second phase in the RKC review. The meeting approved the WGRKC's final report and discussed the business case for the RKC review, laying the groundwork for subsequent revisions. The RKC's revision will streamline customs procedures, enhance transparency, and promote global trade facilitation, significantly impacting businesses. This update aims to modernize customs practices and adapt to evolving global trade patterns, ultimately reducing costs and delays for international trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advocates Gender Equality in Global Trade Reform

WCO Advocates Gender Equality in Global Trade Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released a Declaration on Gender Equality and Diversity, aiming to promote fairness and inclusion within customs systems. Eight key actions are outlined to eliminate discrimination, enhance efficiency, and foster sustainable development. These actions focus on creating a more equitable and representative workforce, ensuring equal opportunities, and promoting a culture of respect and understanding. The WCO hopes this declaration will serve as a catalyst for positive change within customs administrations worldwide, leading to a more inclusive and effective global trade environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde WCO Launch Trade Efficiency Study

Cape Verde WCO Launch Trade Efficiency Study

With support from the WCO-WACAM project, Cape Verde Customs is preparing its first Time Release Study (TRS) to identify bottlenecks, optimize customs procedures, and enhance trade competitiveness. Through WCO expert workshops and public-private partnership action plans, Cape Verde aims to fulfill the Trade Facilitation Agreement, establishing an efficient and transparent customs system to promote economic development. The TRS will provide valuable data for informed decision-making and targeted reforms, ultimately streamlining the flow of goods and boosting Cape Verde's participation in global trade.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaragua Launches AEO Trade Security Pilot with NORAD Support

Nicaragua Launches AEO Trade Security Pilot with NORAD Support

With support from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) and the World Customs Organization (WCO), Nicaraguan Customs launched an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) pilot program. This initiative aims to optimize customs procedures and enhance trade security and efficiency through capacity building and Time Release Study (TRS). The program seeks to streamline the flow of goods, reduce release times, and contribute to Nicaragua's economic development by fostering a more secure and efficient trading environment. Ultimately, the AEO program is expected to boost international trade and investment.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Serbia Enhances Trade Via WCO Mercator Program

Serbia Enhances Trade Via WCO Mercator Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully completed a Mercator Program assessment of Serbian Customs, marking significant progress in trade facilitation for Serbia. The assessment aimed to understand Serbia's current compliance with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and develop a tailored action plan. The WCO will provide technical assistance through the PMFE to help Serbia improve its trade facilitation level and promote economic growth. This initiative will support Serbia in streamlining customs procedures and reducing trade costs, ultimately boosting its competitiveness in the global market.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Azerbaijan Expands AEO Program to Facilitate Silk Road Trade

Azerbaijan Expands AEO Program to Facilitate Silk Road Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Azerbaijan Customs in accelerating its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, aiming to enhance supply chain security and improve trade efficiency. Through capacity-building workshops and the development of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs), Azerbaijan is poised to better leverage its strategic geographic location as a key node on the 'Silk Road' to foster economic development. This initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures and promote a more secure and efficient trading environment for businesses operating in and through Azerbaijan.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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