Sierra Leone Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

Sierra Leone Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

The WCO supported Sierra Leone in enhancing its customs efficiency by hosting a Time Release Study workshop. This initiative aimed to optimize clearance procedures and promote trade facilitation. The workshop focused on identifying bottlenecks and implementing strategies to improve the speed and predictability of customs processes. The project was funded by the UK's HMRC, demonstrating international collaboration in supporting Sierra Leone's efforts to streamline trade and boost economic growth through more efficient customs operations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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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.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Customs Modernization Boosts WTO Bid Regional Trade

Bahamas Customs Modernization Boosts WTO Bid Regional Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a two-year customs capacity building program to support the Bahamas' accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Funded by the Inter-American Development Bank, the program covers three key areas: organizational development, human resources, and governance. It aims to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and compliance of Bahamas Customs, bringing it up to international standards and positioning it as a model for the Caribbean region.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cuba Adopts WCO Data Model to Modernize Customs

Cuba Adopts WCO Data Model to Modernize Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Cuban Customs in implementing the WCO Data Model through technical assistance. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes, enhance efficiency, and promote data interoperability with other government agencies. The WCO Data Model, serving as a common language for global trade, facilitates the modernization of Cuban Customs by standardizing data elements and information structures. This integration into the global trade system will ultimately improve Cuba's international competitiveness.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chile Advances Trade with Customs System Workshop

Chile Advances Trade with Customs System Workshop

Chile successfully hosted a national seminar in Valparaiso on the Harmonized System and Customs Tariff Management. The seminar aimed to enhance the professional skills of customs officials in commodity classification and tariff management, ensuring consistent application of the HS 2017 version and improving current working methods. With the assistance of the WCO, Chile Customs will continue to improve its capabilities, making greater contributions to promoting Chile's economic development and facilitating international trade.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Maximizing Dutyfree Allowances for Personal Items

Maximizing Dutyfree Allowances for Personal Items

This article analyzes the application of duty-free allowances in the customs clearance of personal belongings in international freight forwarding. It introduces duty-free policies and precautions in various scenarios, emphasizing the importance of purchase receipts and personal use attributes. Practical suggestions are provided to enhance the efficiency of customs clearance.

08/04/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Resumes Leadership Program to Train Future Customs Leaders

WCO Resumes Leadership Program to Train Future Customs Leaders

The WCO relaunched its Leadership Development Programme, aiming to enhance the leadership and management capabilities of customs officials. This initiative addresses international trade challenges and promotes customs modernization. Sixteen countries have benefited from the program. The WCO expresses gratitude to China, Japan, and Korea for their financial contributions and support.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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