Mali Customs Adopts Competencybased HRM for Modernization

Mali Customs Adopts Competencybased HRM for Modernization

With the support of the WCO, Mali Customs has initiated HRM modernization reforms, employing a competency model to enhance personnel quality. Facing challenges, the reform aims to build a modern HRM system to promote development. The focus is on improving employee skills and performance through a structured framework, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and effective customs administration. This initiative is crucial for Mali Customs to meet international standards and facilitate trade.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Senegal Customs Modernizes HR with WCO Backing Targets Regional Benchmark

Senegal Customs Modernizes HR with WCO Backing Targets Regional Benchmark

With WCO support through the WACAM project, Senegalese Customs is advancing human resource modernization. They've completed personnel planning tools and secured high-level support. The goal is to validate and implement a competency-based approach by December 15, 2015. This initiative aims to enhance customs efficiency, employee satisfaction, and international competitiveness. It is expected to serve as a model for West Africa, demonstrating the positive impact of strategic human resource management within customs administrations.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Customs Clarifies Import Rules for Smartwatches and Drones

US Customs Clarifies Import Rules for Smartwatches and Drones

The Harmonized System Committee of the World Customs Organization has released its latest commodity classification decisions, clarifying the customs classification standards for high-tech products such as smartwatches and drones. This move helps companies accurately declare import and export goods, reduce trade risks, and promote the improvement of international trade rules. It provides clearer guidelines for customs authorities and businesses alike, ensuring consistent application of tariffs and trade regulations for these rapidly evolving technologies.

02/03/2026 HS Code Query
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Pehujo Airport Central to Argentinas Domestic Air Network

Pehujo Airport Central to Argentinas Domestic Air Network

Pehuajo Airport (PEH) is a significant aviation hub in Pehuajo, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. As a non-customs airport, it primarily serves domestic air transport, playing a crucial role in supporting the regional economy and connecting the city. Future upgrades to become a customs airport are expected to enhance its international logistics capabilities. This transformation could significantly boost the region's trade and economic development by facilitating smoother and more efficient international cargo handling.

09/29/2025 Airport Codes
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WCO Introduces App to Simplify Global Trade Compliance

WCO Introduces App to Simplify Global Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched the 'HS Browse & Check' App, providing customs professionals and international trade enthusiasts with convenient HS code lookup and regulatory interpretation services. This free app offers the complete HS2022 content, including legal notes, explanatory notes, and classification opinions, helping users efficiently conduct trade operations and make informed decisions. It aims to streamline international trade processes by providing readily accessible information on HS codes and related regulations.

11/03/2025 HS Code Query
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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.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ethiopia Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Meet Global Norms

Ethiopia Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Meet Global Norms

Ethiopia is accelerating the modernization of its tariff classification system to align with international standards, aiming to facilitate trade and promote economic growth. With support from the EU-WCO Africa HS Project, the Ethiopian Customs Commission is working to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen capacity building to adapt to the evolving global trade environment. This initiative seeks to simplify customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and enhance Ethiopia's competitiveness in the international market.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Workshop in Baku Boosts Customs Evidence Collection

WCO Workshop in Baku Boosts Customs Evidence Collection

The 2nd WCO COPES Regional Workshop was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, aiming to enhance evidence collection capabilities of customs administrations in the region to combat transnational crime. Through interactive training and experience sharing, the workshop strengthened the professional skills of customs officials from various countries and laid the foundation for future international cooperation. The COPES project will continue to strengthen international cooperation, focus on emerging forms of crime, and contribute to building a safer world.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Turkmenistan Boosts Customs Expertise in WCO Workshop

Turkmenistan Boosts Customs Expertise in WCO Workshop

In February 2025, the WCO and Turkmenistan co-organized an HS workshop in Ashgabat. The workshop aimed to enhance customs' tariff classification capabilities and contribute to trade development. This initiative underscores the importance of accurate and consistent tariff classification for efficient border management and international trade facilitation. By strengthening customs' expertise in the Harmonized System, the workshop supports Turkmenistan's efforts to align with international standards and promote economic growth through streamlined trade processes.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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