Benin Customs Adopts Competency Model to Enhance Efficiency

Benin Customs Adopts Competency Model to Enhance Efficiency

With the support of the Swedish government through the WACAM project, Benin Customs has successfully implemented a competency-based human resource management system. This system covers key areas such as recruitment, training, and performance evaluation, aiming to enhance the overall effectiveness of the customs administration. The Minister of Finance expressed support for the project and hopes to extend it to the tax department. A pilot competency assessment project will be launched at Cotonou Airport, laying the foundation for the modernization of human resources within Benin Customs.

Malaysia Boosts Border Security with Wcobacked Risk System

Malaysia Boosts Border Security with Wcobacked Risk System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a risk management workshop in Malaysia to support the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) in strengthening its border security. The workshop focused on risk identification, targeting, postal/express consignment risk management, and international cooperation. By combining theory and practice, it aimed to enhance RMCD's risk management capabilities, laying the foundation for building a smart customs administration and safeguarding national security. The workshop provided valuable insights and practical tools for RMCD to improve its risk assessment and mitigation strategies.

Gome Relaunches App Pivots to Livestreaming Ecommerce

Gome Relaunches App Pivots to Livestreaming Ecommerce

Gome APP's rebranding signals a shift away from entertainment-focused retail, returning to its traditional brand image. The company is betting on live streaming e-commerce, establishing an MCN department to cultivate hosts. Whether this strategy can succeed in a highly competitive market and restore Gome's past glory remains to be seen. Facing challenges such as traffic scarcity, content innovation, and online-offline integration, Gome's transformation is fraught with both opportunities and difficulties. The success of this strategic shift is crucial for the company's future.

Cambodia Boosts Customs Valuation Skills with WCO Japan Aid

Cambodia Boosts Customs Valuation Skills with WCO Japan Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported a customs valuation workshop in Cambodia to enhance the valuation capabilities of officers from the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE). The workshop covered the WTO Valuation Agreement, key technical issues, and valuation control measures, sharing case studies and experiences. Through this workshop, Cambodian Customs is expected to improve revenue collection, promote trade facilitation, and inject new vitality into the national economic development. The focus was on practical application and knowledge transfer to improve valuation accuracy and efficiency.

Burundi Adopts Competencybased HRM System for Revenue Authority

Burundi Adopts Competencybased HRM System for Revenue Authority

With support from the World Customs Organization, the Burundi Revenue Authority is undergoing modernization through the development of a competency-based HRM system. This aims to improve operational efficiency, increase tax revenue, and enhance stakeholder relations. The workshop focused on empowering the HR department to build a competency model and develop an action plan. The WCO will continue to provide support to help the Burundi Revenue Authority achieve its modernization goals. This initiative highlights the importance of HR in driving organizational change and improving public service delivery.

US DOT Shuts Down Rogue CDL Training Schools

US DOT Shuts Down Rogue CDL Training Schools

The U.S. Department of Transportation is cracking down on "CDL license mills." Nearly 3,000 training providers have been removed for failing to meet federal standards, and thousands more face scrutiny. This action aims to improve the quality of truck driver training, ensure road safety, and maintain the healthy development of the industry. The increased oversight seeks to eliminate substandard training programs and ensure that all CDL holders are adequately prepared for the demands of operating commercial vehicles, ultimately reducing accidents and improving overall road safety.

01/07/2026 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.

WCO Aids Gabon in Curbing Illegal Wildlife Trade

WCO Aids Gabon in Curbing Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a CITES-Framework Action Plan training in Gabon, aimed at enhancing the capacity of African customs officers to combat illegal wildlife trade. Hosted by the Gabonese Customs Administration, the training involved representatives from multiple countries, focusing on discussing challenges and sharing experiences. The U.S. Department of State funded the training. The WCO-INAMA project is dedicated to protecting Africa's biodiversity through training and cooperation. This initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in tackling wildlife crime and strengthening customs enforcement efforts.

US Sues Baltimore Bridge Owners for 100M Over Collapse

US Sues Baltimore Bridge Owners for 100M Over Collapse

The U.S. Department of Justice is suing the owner of the vessel involved in the Baltimore Key Bridge collapse, seeking over $100 million to recoup federal costs incurred in responding to the incident. The lawsuit alleges negligence on the part of the owner, leading to safety deficiencies on the ship. The owner denies fault and is seeking to limit liability. The U.S. government has pledged to support Maryland in rebuilding the Key Bridge. The legal battle is expected to be lengthy and complex, focusing on determining the extent of responsibility for the disaster.