Philippines Launches Study to Streamline Cargo Boost Trade

Philippines Launches Study to Streamline Cargo Boost Trade

The Philippines has launched a National Time Release Study (TRS) to identify bottlenecks in trade processes through data-driven analysis. The goal is to implement targeted reforms to improve trade efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance global competitiveness. This project is a collaboration between the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the World Customs Organization (WCO), with support from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC). The final report is expected to be released by the end of 2025. The TRS aims to streamline goods release and contribute to the growth of the Philippine economy.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Advances Customs Modernization with SECOWCO Support

Moldova Advances Customs Modernization with SECOWCO Support

With the support of the SECO-WCO Partnership, Moldovan Customs is undergoing a strategic upgrade. Through strategic planning and performance evaluation workshops, the customs administration aims to enhance strategic synergy, governance, and accountability. The WCO will continue to provide support, assisting Moldova in improving its strategic planning and performance evaluation systems to achieve trade facilitation goals. This collaborative effort seeks to modernize and streamline customs operations, ultimately contributing to Moldova's economic growth and integration into the global trade landscape.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Adopts Revised Kyoto Convention to Boost Trade Efficiency

Moldova Adopts Revised Kyoto Convention to Boost Trade Efficiency

The Republic of Moldova has officially acceded to the Revised Kyoto Convention, becoming its 139th contracting party. This move will simplify customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and improve customs clearance efficiency, thereby enhancing international competitiveness. It will bring more convenient and efficient international trade environment for Moldovan enterprises and attract more foreign investment. The accession signifies Moldova's commitment to modernizing its customs practices and aligning with international standards for trade facilitation.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Streamlines Customs to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Uzbekistan Streamlines Customs to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Uzbekistan hosted a workshop on customs strategic planning to enhance management capabilities and promote trade facilitation. The workshop aimed to improve customs efficiency and effectiveness through strategic planning and performance evaluation. The Global Trade Facilitation program provided support for the event. The initiative underscores Uzbekistan's commitment to streamlining customs procedures, reducing trade barriers, and fostering a more competitive business environment. Ultimately, this leads to increased trade volume and economic growth. The focus on strategic planning and performance evaluation ensures sustainable improvements in customs administration.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Efficiency with SECOWCO Aid

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Efficiency with SECOWCO Aid

Uzbekistan Customs, with the support of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, held a workshop on strategic planning and performance evaluation. The aim was to enhance customs' strategic planning and performance management capabilities. By strengthening strategic planning, clarifying strategic objectives, improving performance management, and developing key performance indicators (KPIs), Uzbekistan Customs is committed to building an efficient performance management system. This effort is geared towards promoting international trade facilitation and enhancing national competitiveness.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases IT Guide for Digital Customs Modernization

WCO Releases IT Guide for Digital Customs Modernization

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released an IT Guide to assist customs leaders in digital transformation. This guide aims to enhance efficiency, security, and service delivery within customs administrations worldwide. By leveraging information technology, customs organizations can streamline processes, improve risk management, and ultimately support trade facilitation efforts, contributing to a more efficient and secure global trading environment. The guide provides practical insights and best practices for implementing digital solutions within the customs domain.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zambia Adopts ATA Convention to Ease Temporary Imports Enhance Trade

Zambia Adopts ATA Convention to Ease Temporary Imports Enhance Trade

Zambia has officially joined the ATA Convention, becoming the 65th contracting party. This accession will simplify temporary import procedures, reduce trade costs, and promote international trade facilitation. The ATA Convention, through the ATA Carnet, a universally recognized international customs document, allows businesses and individuals to temporarily import goods between contracting parties without paying duties and taxes. This will contribute to Zambia's economic development and the prosperity of global trade by streamlining cross-border movement of goods for various purposes.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Body Warns of Rising Smuggling Threats

Global Customs Body Warns of Rising Smuggling Threats

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released its latest 'Smuggling Trends Report,' providing an in-depth analysis of illicit trade dynamics and trends, offering risk alerts and compliance guidance for businesses. The report emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in helping businesses identify vulnerabilities, strengthen supply chain security, and maintain global trade stability. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding evolving smuggling patterns and implementing proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with illegal trade activities.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Conference Highlights Digital Tools for Sustainable Trade

WCO Conference Highlights Digital Tools for Sustainable Trade

The World Customs Organization Technology Conference focused on "Digital Empowerment for Trade Facilitation," delving into topics like Single Window systems, trusted digital ecosystems, and data-driven sustainable supply chains. The conference emphasized technological innovation as a key driver of customs modernization. It called for strengthened international cooperation to build smart customs, addressing global trade challenges and enhancing efficiency, security, and sustainability. The discussions highlighted the importance of leveraging digital tools to streamline processes and foster a more resilient and interconnected global trade environment.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bolivia Streamlines Trade with Customs Efficiency Study

Bolivia Streamlines Trade with Customs Efficiency Study

Bolivian Customs held a TRS workshop to optimize customs clearance processes and enhance trade facilitation. The implementation of the TRS aims to improve the investment climate and promote economic development. This initiative focuses on streamlining procedures and reducing the time required for goods to be released, ultimately benefiting businesses and contributing to a more efficient and competitive trading environment. The workshop provided valuable insights and practical strategies for improving the overall efficiency of the customs process in Bolivia.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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