EUWCO Project Supports African Free Trade with Harmonized Rules

EUWCO Project Supports African Free Trade with Harmonized Rules

The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme aims to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by 2025. It focuses on finalizing the rules of origin, harmonizing key African origin regimes, and developing a community of practice for rules of origin. This initiative is expected to lay the groundwork for economic prosperity in Africa by facilitating trade and ensuring the smooth implementation of the AfCFTA agreement. The program will contribute to a more predictable and transparent trade environment across the continent.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahrain Hosts Regional WTO Trade Facilitation Workshop

Bahrain Hosts Regional WTO Trade Facilitation Workshop

In 2015, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held the 3rd Regional Workshop on the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in Bahrain, aiming to promote understanding and implementation of the TFA in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The workshop brought together customs and trade experts to discuss key TFA provisions, technical assistance, institutional cooperation, and member case studies. During the event, Japan announced its ratification of the TFA, injecting new momentum into trade facilitation efforts in the MENA region.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO WCO Boost Customs Valuation in St Lucia

WTO WCO Boost Customs Valuation in St Lucia

A joint workshop by the World Trade Organization and the World Customs Organization aimed to enhance Saint Lucia's customs valuation capabilities and optimize its trade environment. The workshop covered topics including the Valuation Agreement, technical analysis, dispute resolution, and risk management. The goal was to improve the expertise and skills of Saint Lucian customs officials, ultimately fostering the country's economic development. By strengthening customs valuation practices, Saint Lucia can promote fair trade and attract investment, contributing to sustainable economic growth.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Singapore Australia Boost Trade with AEO Mutual Recognition

Singapore Australia Boost Trade with AEO Mutual Recognition

Singapore and Australia have signed an AEO Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) to mutually recognize their AEO program certification standards. This aims to provide certified companies with faster and more convenient customs clearance, reduce trade costs, and improve operational efficiency. This agreement signifies the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries, solidifying Singapore's position as a regional trade hub and creating more development opportunities for businesses. The MRA is expected to streamline trade processes and foster stronger economic ties between Singapore and Australia.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Palestinian Customs in Warehouse Management Upgrade

WCO Aids Palestinian Customs in Warehouse Management Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) facilitated a study visit for the Palestinian Customs Organization to learn from Morocco's experience in bonded warehouse management. This initiative aims to assist Palestine in establishing and improving its bonded warehouse system, enhancing risk management, and coordinating border management, aligning with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and promoting trade facilitation. This effort is part of the HMRC-WCO-UNCTAD project, financially supported by the UK government.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact With Wage Increases

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact With Wage Increases

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a new six-year contract covering 36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement includes record wage increases and automation protections, averting a potential strike, ensuring supply chain stability, and paving the way for port modernization. The efforts of all parties and the solidarity of ILA members were key to reaching the agreement.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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South Korea WCO Partner to Develop Global Trade Talent

South Korea WCO Partner to Develop Global Trade Talent

Korea Customs Service (KCS) signed a cooperation agreement with the World Customs Organization (WCO). Through the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, KCS aims to provide high-level training to customs officials from other countries, sharing Korea's experiences and best practices in trade facilitation. KCS also pledged to increase its financial and human resource contributions to the WCO, assisting WCO members in implementing relevant standards and jointly promoting the advancement of global customs affairs. This collaboration underscores Korea's commitment to supporting international customs cooperation and development.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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New Customs Rules Affect Licensing Fees Royalties

New Customs Rules Affect Licensing Fees Royalties

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released new Advisory Opinion 4.19 on customs valuation, addressing the complex valuation issues related to royalties and license fees under Article 8.1(c) of the Customs Valuation Agreement. This opinion clarifies the valuation principles for single royalties encompassing both patents and trademarks. It assists businesses in accurately calculating import costs, reducing valuation disputes, and promoting the healthy development of international trade. This guidance aims to provide clarity and consistency in the application of customs valuation rules related to intellectual property rights.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US and China Cut Tariffs to Boost Ecommerce Trade

US and China Cut Tariffs to Boost Ecommerce Trade

The US and China released the 'Geneva Joint Statement on Economic and Trade', announcing significant mutual tariff reductions, bringing substantial benefits to cross-border e-commerce. Lower tariffs will reduce costs, enhance product competitiveness, and boost market confidence, creating new development opportunities for cross-border e-commerce sellers. Both sides will continue to uphold the concept of win-win cooperation and build a sustainable economic and trade relationship. This agreement is expected to foster increased trade volume and strengthen ties between the two nations.

01/04/2026 Logistics
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WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

At the request of the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia, the World Customs Organization (WCO) undertook a support mission to Cambodia. The mission aimed to assess the implementation gaps of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and assist in developing a five-year strategic plan. Through gap analysis and strategic planning, the WCO will help Cambodia improve its trade facilitation level and promote economic development. The support focuses on identifying areas needing improvement and providing guidance for a comprehensive strategic roadmap to enhance trade efficiency.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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