Lesotho Customs Enhances Trade with WCO PCA Support

Lesotho Customs Enhances Trade with WCO PCA Support

In June 2019, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic mission to enhance the post clearance audit (PCA) capabilities of the Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA). By assessing the LRA's institutional setup, infrastructure, and technical approaches, the WCO aimed to assist Lesotho in better implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, optimizing trade processes, and fostering economic development. This collaboration demonstrates the WCO's vital role in global trade facilitation.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advances Trade Pact to Boost Global Commerce

WCO Advances Trade Pact to Boost Global Commerce

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively promotes the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) by establishing working groups, providing technical assistance, and developing guidance tools. These efforts help members improve customs management and facilitate global trade. Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya emphasized that the WCO will continue to support the TFA implementation, jointly moving towards a more efficient and transparent trade future. The WCO's commitment aims to streamline processes and reduce trade barriers for its members.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Namibia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Zambias ASYCUDA Expertise

Namibia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Zambias ASYCUDA Expertise

The Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) benchmarked the ASYCUDA World system at the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), learning best practices in electronic payments and valuation control. This aims to enhance NamRA's automation, effectively implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, and promote trade development. This collaboration exemplifies South-South cooperation and highlights the WCO's role in advancing global trade facilitation. NamRA seeks to improve its customs processes by adopting ZRA's successful strategies, ultimately contributing to increased efficiency and reduced trade costs.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Trade Deal Advances with World Customs Organization Support

WTO Trade Deal Advances with World Customs Organization Support

The WCO Working Group on Trade Facilitation Agreement emphasized the WCO's crucial role in implementing the TFA. Discussions centered on supporting global trade flow through tools and initiatives like National Trade Facilitation Committees, Coordinated Border Management, Time Release Studies, and the Mercator Programme. The meeting also approved a study tool designed to assist members in submitting national practice case studies easily incorporated into implementation guidelines. This aims to further streamline trade processes and enhance efficiency at borders worldwide.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Customs Declaration Form Adds Trade Country (region) Indicator to Promote International Trade Transparency

New Customs Declaration Form Adds Trade Country (region) Indicator to Promote International Trade Transparency

The General Administration of Customs recently announced reforms to the customs declaration process, introducing a new 'Trade Country (Region)' indicator. This change aims to enhance the accuracy of customs declarations and reflect the true state of international trade, in line with the developments of economic globalization. The indicator will streamline the customs clearance process, improve efficiency, and assist businesses in conducting more effective global trade.

07/21/2025 Logistics
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Bahrain Boosts Customs Efficiency with WCO Audit Clearance Systems

Bahrain Boosts Customs Efficiency with WCO Audit Clearance Systems

The WCO assisted Bahrain in enhancing its Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) and Pre-Arrival Processing (PAP) capabilities to align with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Bahrain committed to applying the acquired knowledge and skills. The WCO will continue to support Bahrain's customs modernization efforts. This assistance aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs procedures, ultimately facilitating trade and economic growth for Bahrain.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Latin America Enhances Trade with Crossborder Partnerships

Latin America Enhances Trade with Crossborder Partnerships

The World Customs Organization supported a Trade Facilitation Committee meeting for Latin American countries, focusing on issues such as expedited customs clearance, transit, and cooperation among border agencies. The meeting emphasized strengthening collaboration between border agencies and the private sector, as well as monitoring the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) to ensure the sustainability and success of trade facilitation efforts. These discussions aim to streamline processes and foster a more efficient and collaborative trade environment within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Switzerland WCO Boost Ukraine Trade Efficiency

Switzerland WCO Boost Ukraine Trade Efficiency

Switzerland, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), has launched the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) to enhance the efficiency of Ukrainian Customs and improve the business environment. Based on the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and the WCO's Revised Kyoto Convention, the project provides technical assistance, capacity building, and resource support to help Ukraine achieve trade facilitation. This initiative aims to reduce costs for businesses, enhance competitiveness, promote foreign investment, and ultimately benefit consumers.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uscanadamexico Land Trade Hits Record High in March

Uscanadamexico Land Trade Hits Record High in March

The U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported that U.S. land trade with Canada and Mexico exceeded $85 billion in March, a record high. The primary drivers include global economic recovery, supply chain optimization, and supportive policies. The implementation of the new North American Free Trade Agreement and infrastructure development are expected to further boost regional trade growth. This surge highlights the increasing importance of land transportation in facilitating economic activity within North America.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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