California Pioneers US Transportation Infrastructure Reform

California Pioneers US Transportation Infrastructure Reform

California is leading a transformation to reshape US transportation infrastructure through the bipartisan H.R. 3001 bill. This initiative invests in freight networks, addresses aging infrastructure, and enhances economic competitiveness. The bill establishes a Freight Transportation Infrastructure Trust Fund, providing states with funding to meet growing infrastructure demands. Building upon the success of the FAST Act, this legislation aims to lay a foundation for the future of the American economy by improving critical transportation networks and supporting efficient movement of goods.

WCO Aids Niger Customs in Trade System Upgrade for Africa

WCO Aids Niger Customs in Trade System Upgrade for Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with EU funding, launched the project "Harmonized Commodity Classification Based on WCO Standards to Strengthen African Trade," with Niger as one of the first beneficiary countries. WCO experts assessed Niger Customs to enhance its commodity classification and customs valuation capabilities, unify commodity classification standards, and facilitate African trade. This project will provide valuable experience for other African countries, jointly building a new landscape for African trade.

Bahrain Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

Bahrain Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

Bahrain Customs is collaborating with the WCO to enhance its post-clearance audit and advance ruling capabilities. This initiative aims to align with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and establish a more efficient customs clearance system. By strengthening these key areas, Bahrain Customs seeks to streamline trade processes, reduce delays, and improve overall efficiency in its operations. This partnership underscores Bahrain's commitment to modernizing its customs procedures and fostering a more conducive environment for international trade.

Bolivia Adopts WCO Program to Strengthen Customs Oversight

Bolivia Adopts WCO Program to Strengthen Customs Oversight

The Switzerland-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) supports Bolivian Customs in enhancing its risk management capabilities. Through workshops, progress is reviewed, recommendations are provided, and continuous technical assistance, capacity building, and experience sharing are offered. The aim is to assist Bolivian Customs in establishing a scientific, efficient, and sustainable risk management system. This system will help safeguard national economic security and promote legitimate trade development. The project focuses on building a robust framework for identifying and mitigating potential risks in cross-border trade.

Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho and South Africa jointly released an end-to-end clearance time study report, aiming to optimize border management and improve cross-border trade efficiency. The study focuses on the Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge border posts, highlighting the importance of trade facilitation in unlocking the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Both countries are committed to implementing the report's recommendations, strengthening economic ties, and promoting regional economic development. The study underscores the critical role of efficient border procedures in fostering trade and growth within the region.

WCO Promotes Gender Equality to Strengthen Global Trade

WCO Promotes Gender Equality to Strengthen Global Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Virtual Working Group (VWG) on Gender Equality and Diversity convened to explore how to enhance collaboration with the private sector to promote gender-inclusive trade facilitation, better addressing the needs of women traders and marginalized groups. The WCO is building a more gender-equal customs environment through initiatives like online learning modules and the 'Women in Customs' campaign. These efforts aim to ensure that customs procedures and policies are equitable and supportive of all stakeholders, regardless of gender.

WCO Backs UAE in Standardizing Customs Recruitment Training

WCO Backs UAE in Standardizing Customs Recruitment Training

At the request of the UAE Federal Customs Authority, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of its customs personnel recruitment and training processes. The aim was to establish unified standards, improve customs efficiency, and facilitate international trade. A WCO expert team, through research and interviews, drafted a guide for a unified recruitment and training system and developed a follow-up action plan. This laid the foundation for the standardization and professionalization of the UAE customs personnel workforce.

Africachina Trade Grows with Customs Collaboration

Africachina Trade Grows with Customs Collaboration

The WCO's Trade Facilitation Programme supports knowledge exchange between the South African Revenue Service and the Nigeria Customs Service, focusing on post-clearance audit (PCA), Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), and risk management. Nigeria Customs aims to leverage South Africa's best practices to upgrade its AEO program, PCA processes, and risk management strategies. This initiative seeks to improve trade compliance, reduce costs for businesses, and ultimately contribute to economic growth in Nigeria.

WCO Tool Boosts Risk Management for Jordan Customs

WCO Tool Boosts Risk Management for Jordan Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of Jordan Customs' risk management capabilities to support its efforts in enhancing risk management. The assessment covered four key areas: risk management policies, strategic planning, intelligence, and compliance, providing recommendations for improvement. The WCO's new diagnostic tool was piloted during this mission, offering valuable lessons for other customs administrations seeking modernization. Jordan Customs will develop an action plan based on the assessment findings, and the WCO will continue to provide support to its implementation.

WCO Strengthens Zambias Antiwildlife Trafficking Efforts

WCO Strengthens Zambias Antiwildlife Trafficking Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its INAMA project, supports Zambia Customs in enhancing its intelligence capabilities to combat the illegal trade in endangered species. A WCO expert team visited Zambia to provide strategic advice and technical assistance, covering intelligence gathering, analysis, dissemination, and risk management. This initiative aims to strengthen Zambia Customs' enforcement capabilities and contribute to global biodiversity conservation efforts. The project focuses on improving intelligence-led enforcement to effectively target and disrupt wildlife trafficking networks operating through Zambian borders.