Kenya Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO JICA Aid

Kenya Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO JICA Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly supporting the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to enhance its risk assessment and selectivity capabilities, addressing new trade challenges in East Africa. Using a two-pronged approach combining expert discussions and practical exercises, Kenyan Customs actively participates in building a smart customs administration. This initiative aims to improve clearance efficiency, promote trade facilitation, and ultimately contribute to Kenya's economic growth.

Mongolia Improves Customs Valuation with WCO Assistance

Mongolia Improves Customs Valuation with WCO Assistance

At the request of the Mongolian Customs General Administration, a World Customs Organization (WCO) expert team conducted a diagnostic review of its valuation system and provided recommendations for improvement. The aim is to assist Mongolian Customs in building a more efficient and transparent valuation system by strengthening internal cooperation, developing talent, and keeping abreast of international best practices. This will enhance revenue collection, optimize the business environment, and promote trade development in Mongolia.

WCO Promotes Green Customs for Sustainable Trade

WCO Promotes Green Customs for Sustainable Trade

The WCO's 'Global Green Customs Conference' brought together experts in trade, customs, and environment to discuss border environmental protection. The conference focused on topics such as the circular economy, waste trade, timber trade, and HS code classification, emphasizing the crucial role and responsibility of customs in promoting green trade, combating illegal trade, and building a sustainable future. The conference aimed to strengthen international cooperation, raise public awareness, and collectively address global environmental challenges.

WCO Workshop Boosts Global Customs Risk Management Skills

WCO Workshop Boosts Global Customs Risk Management Skills

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly held a pre-accreditation workshop on risk management, aiming to expand the pool of experts and enhance global customs risk control capabilities. Participants from five West African countries attended the workshop and are expected to obtain WCO accreditation, becoming an important force in the global customs field. This will help the WCO provide risk management support to its members.

Middle East North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

Middle East North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

A Customs Valuation and Fraud Workshop was held in Jordan, supported by the World Customs Organization and the China Customs Cooperation Fund. The workshop aimed to enhance the professional skills of customs officers from North Africa, the Near East, and the Middle East. It focused on the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation, the application of the Revenue Package, and fraud response. Through case studies and risk management discussions, the workshop promoted regional cooperation and the construction of a fair trade environment.

Global Customs Agencies Intensify Fight Against Environmental Crime

Global Customs Agencies Intensify Fight Against Environmental Crime

The World Customs Organization emphasizes the crucial role of customs in environmental protection, urging the global customs community to strengthen cooperation in combating illegal environmental trade and protecting natural heritage. By enhancing border control, risk assessment, international collaboration, and technological application, customs administrations can effectively address environmental crime and contribute to sustainable development. The focus is on proactive measures to prevent illicit trafficking of endangered species, hazardous waste, and other environmentally harmful goods across borders, ensuring a safer and more sustainable planet for future generations.

Global Operation DEMETER V Cracks Down on Illegal Environmental Trade

Global Operation DEMETER V Cracks Down on Illegal Environmental Trade

Operation DEMETER V is a global customs enforcement operation targeting the illegal cross-border movement of environmentally sensitive commodities. Initiated by the World Customs Organization, the operation focuses on the illicit trafficking of hazardous waste (particularly plastic waste) and ozone-depleting substances. Through enhanced international cooperation and information exchange, Operation DEMETER V has successfully seized significant quantities of illegal waste and ozone-depleting substances, effectively upholding the enforcement of international environmental conventions.

Wcos COPES Initiative Strengthens Customs Against Wildlife Trafficking

Wcos COPES Initiative Strengthens Customs Against Wildlife Trafficking

The WCO's COPES project aims to enhance customs' capacity to combat illegal wildlife trade. A workshop in Togo focused on evidence collection, case management, and international cooperation. INAMA provided financial support. The training sought to improve the effectiveness of customs officials in identifying, investigating, and prosecuting wildlife trafficking offenses. Emphasis was placed on collaborative efforts between national agencies and international partners to disrupt transnational criminal networks involved in the illegal trade of endangered species.

WCO Urges Global Trade Resilience at BASC Congress

WCO Urges Global Trade Resilience at BASC Congress

The WCO Deputy Secretary General highlighted the importance of international trade resilience at the 10th World BASC Congress. He presented the WCO's work in standardizing customs procedures, promoting international cooperation, and building capacity, with specific mention of the SAFE Framework and its positive impact on AEO programs. The WCO will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to address international trade challenges and promote global economic prosperity. The speech underscored the critical role of customs in ensuring secure and efficient global supply chains.

WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

The 28th SAFE Working Group meeting focused on the review and implementation monitoring of the SAFE Framework, emphasizing customs-private sector cooperation and optimizing questionnaires. Key topics included data strategy, green customs initiatives, promotion of AEO validation courses, revision of work plans, and extension of the review cycle. Enhanced customs cooperation with aviation and port sectors was also highlighted. The meeting injected new momentum into global trade security cooperation, foreshadowing a future of safer, more efficient, and sustainable global trade systems.