WCO Introduces New Customs Strategies to Strengthen Supply Chains

WCO Introduces New Customs Strategies to Strengthen Supply Chains

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization emphasized the importance of global supply chain resilience at the Asian Development Bank Institute Annual Conference. He highlighted six key challenges: digitalization, data standardization, disruptive technologies, e-commerce, environment, and border conflicts. He called for strengthened customs cooperation, simplified clearance procedures, promotion of mutual recognition and interoperability, and support for cross-border e-commerce and green customs. These measures aim to build a more resilient global supply chain ecosystem, helping businesses navigate uncertainties and achieve sustainable development.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO and ZATCA Enhance MENA Customs Training to Ease Trade

WCO and ZATCA Enhance MENA Customs Training to Ease Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with Saudi ZATCA, organized a Harmonized System (HS) expert pre-certification workshop for the Middle East and North Africa region. This initiative aims to cultivate local experts, enhance regional customs capacity, and facilitate trade. Through a rigorous assessment and certification process, the WCO will expand its pool of experts, support regional capacity building efforts, and promote the standardization of global trade practices. The workshop is a key step in strengthening regional customs expertise and streamlining trade processes.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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South Africa Boosts Border Tech Leadership with WCO Backing

South Africa Boosts Border Tech Leadership with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a leadership and management development workshop for the South African Revenue Service (SARS) executive team. The workshop aimed to enhance teamwork and individual leadership skills, enabling them to address key challenges and effectively implement trade facilitation reforms. Focusing on personal communication, team trust, and organizational strategic management, the workshop facilitated the development of tailored action plans. These plans support the SARS leadership model and the construction of 'Smart Borders,' ultimately striving for a more efficient and secure trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gabon Enhances Customs Skills with WCO Training Program

Gabon Enhances Customs Skills with WCO Training Program

Under the WCO-WACAM project funded by the Swedish government, the Gabon Customs Administration successfully held a 'Train-the-Trainer' workshop. This significantly enhanced the capabilities of 23 participants in key areas such as customs valuation and tariffs. The project not only lays the foundation for a sustainable talent development system within Gabon Customs but also provides valuable lessons learned for other developing countries. The workshop aimed to empower participants to become effective trainers and contribute to the long-term strengthening of customs operations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Adopts Green Customs Codes for Sustainability

Global Trade Adopts Green Customs Codes for Sustainability

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a global “Green Customs” reflection, exploring revisions to the Harmonized System (HS) code to better integrate environmental considerations and promote a global green economy through a series of workshops. These workshops focus on five key areas: food, chemicals, textiles, basic materials, and green technologies. They provide valuable insights and recommendations for the 'greening' of the HS coding system, aiming to build a more sustainable future. The initiative seeks to leverage trade policies to support environmental protection and sustainable development goals.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances African Customs Training Amid Belgian Graduation Milestone

WCO Enhances African Customs Training Amid Belgian Graduation Milestone

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) attended the graduation ceremony of French-speaking African customs officials at the Belgian Customs Academy, emphasizing the crucial role of customs in revenue collection, trade facilitation, and societal protection. This initiative supports African economic development and the AfCFTA by enhancing customs management, promoting regional integration, and fostering international cooperation. The WCO plays a key role by providing technical assistance and promoting the application of international standards, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and secure trade environment in Africa.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EMCCA Customs College Overhauls Strategy with WCO Backing

EMCCA Customs College Overhauls Strategy with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted the Inter-State School for Customs of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (ISSC-CEMAC) in reshaping its development strategy, aiming to modernize its training system through capacity building. The WCO's diagnostic assessment provided recommendations for ISSC improvements, and a new development strategy was jointly formulated to enhance the professional competence of regional customs officers and promote trade facilitation. The focus is on strengthening the ISSC's role as a key training hub for customs administrations in the CEMAC region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Hosts Workshop on Trade Modernization Reforms

Burkina Faso Hosts Workshop on Trade Modernization Reforms

With support from Japan, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a seminar in Burkina Faso to promote the implementation of the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC). The seminar aimed to enhance customs efficiency and facilitate integration into global trade. The RKC is a key international instrument for simplifying and harmonizing customs procedures. By adopting the RKC and implementing programs like Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification, countries can streamline trade processes, reduce costs, and improve security. This initiative contributes to broader trade facilitation efforts and supports economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Airlines Push for Netzero Amid Sustainable Aviation Challenges

Global Airlines Push for Netzero Amid Sustainable Aviation Challenges

The aviation industry faces the challenge of achieving net-zero emissions while meeting growing demand. Sustainable aviation fuels, carbon offsetting, and technological innovations are key strategies. International cooperation and policy guidance are crucial. The EU has made progress in regulating catering waste and reducing plastic. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is evaluating long-term emissions reduction goals, providing guidance for the sustainable development of the aviation sector. These efforts are vital for mitigating aviation's environmental impact and ensuring a more sustainable future for air travel.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Aviation Summit Tackles Retail Finance and Passenger Trends

Global Aviation Summit Tackles Retail Finance and Passenger Trends

The IATA World Financial Symposium (WFS) & World Passenger Symposium (WPS) were held jointly, focusing on aviation retail, finance, and passenger experience. Looking ahead to 2026, intelligence and sustainability are key themes. The conference explored how airlines can leverage technology and innovative financial strategies to enhance the overall travel journey and ensure long-term growth in a rapidly evolving industry. Discussions centered around creating more personalized and seamless experiences for passengers while also addressing the increasing need for environmentally responsible practices within the aviation sector.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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