The World Customs Organization has released the 5th major revision of the HS Code, involving 233 adjustments across various sectors including agriculture, chemicals, timber, and textiles. This revision aims to improve the accuracy of trade statistics, facilitate trade, and address emerging trade challenges. Businesses should promptly understand these new changes to effectively navigate the evolving landscape of international trade.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, is supporting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in implementing a competency-based human resource management model. A WCO expert team reviewed GRA's HR management tools and provided recommendations for improvement and an implementation plan. GRA is expected to become a benchmark in human resource management in the West and Central African region, offering valuable lessons for other countries. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency and effectiveness within the GRA through strategic human resource development.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, supports the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in implementing a competency-based modern Human Resource Management (HRM) system. This project aims to enhance talent selection, development, and motivation mechanisms within Gambian Customs, thereby improving its efficiency and competitiveness, and injecting new impetus into Gambia's economic development. The project team has finalized key HRM tools and received training in communication and change management.
The Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) has surpassed 100 contracting parties, with Thailand and Sierra Leone's accession further boosting global trade facilitation. The convention aims to simplify and harmonize customs procedures by applying information technology and risk management, improving customs efficiency and reducing trade costs. The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively promotes the RKC's implementation and encourages more members to join, fostering global trade prosperity. The growing number of signatories demonstrates the international commitment to streamlined customs processes and enhanced trade efficiency.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Oman Customs in developing a new strategic plan to facilitate its modernization reforms. Through workshops, both parties are focusing on results-oriented management, aiming to enhance trade facilitation, border security, and revenue efficiency. Oman Customs is committed to continuous reform, striving to create an efficient, secure, and transparent 21st-century customs administration, contributing significantly to the nation's economic development. The strategic plan is crucial for achieving these goals and aligning with international best practices.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Customs Organization (WCO) jointly held a workshop to provide technical assistance on customs valuation to Comoros, which is seeking to join the WTO, helping it fulfill its accession obligations. The workshop focused on the WTO's Valuation Agreement, covering valuation methods, appeal procedures, pre-shipment inspection, and trade facilitation. The aim was to enhance Comoros' trade competitiveness and build an efficient and transparent trade environment. The training is crucial for Comoros to align its customs practices with international standards.
Sudan Customs, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization, launched a National Time Release Study (TRS) in 2015 to improve customs clearance efficiency and optimize the trade environment. Through workshops, representatives analyzed Sudan's current customs clearance processes and developed a roadmap for action. The implementation of the TRS is expected to identify bottlenecks, streamline procedures, reduce operational costs for businesses, and enhance trade competitiveness, injecting new vitality into Sudan's economic development.
The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized at the ICAO World Aviation Forum that aviation cargo security can be effectively enhanced by building global standards, strengthening capacity building, deepening public-private partnerships, addressing Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthening international cooperation. The WCO and ICAO will strengthen cooperation to build a global aviation security network, extending to the anti-doping field, and jointly maintain global security. This collaboration aims to create a safer and more secure air cargo environment worldwide.
In 2015, the World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Oman Customs in implementing the SAFE Framework and AEO program. Through workshops, Oman Customs officials gained a deeper understanding of supply chain security, customs-business partnerships, and the AEO implementation process, leading to the development of action plans. This initiative aims to enhance Oman's trade security and facilitation, strengthen its international competitiveness, and promote economic development. The implementation of SAFE and AEO will contribute to a more secure and efficient trade environment for Oman.
The 4th WCO-Korea Customs & Business Administration Advanced Training Program successfully concluded at Seoul National University, with customs officials from 10 developing countries participating. The program aimed to provide a theoretical framework for international trade and business management, helping participants address customs challenges. Through a combination of theory and practice, the program enhanced participants' capabilities. The WCO also provided support for customs reform and modernization. All parties will continue to collaborate and contribute to the development of global customs affairs.
