Togos Customs Modernization Boosts Efficiency Revenue

Togos Customs Modernization Boosts Efficiency Revenue

Togo Customs has achieved significant results in tax collection, clearance efficiency, and regulatory enforcement by introducing a performance management system supported by the World Customs Organization. Tax revenue increased by 46%, clearance times were halved, and the detection rate of irregularities doubled. This experience provides a valuable lesson for other developing countries, emphasizing the importance of high-level commitment, international cooperation, and continuous improvement. It also looks forward to the application of digitalization and intelligence in customs reform.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ghana Customs Regains Control of Commodity Classification

Ghana Customs Regains Control of Commodity Classification

The Ghana Revenue Authority, with assistance from the World Customs Organization (WCO), is working to reclaim commodity classification rights from private inspection companies. This initiative aims to increase tax revenue, enhance customs expertise, and safeguard national economic sovereignty. The WCO provides technical and financial support through workshops and other means, assisting Ghana in establishing an autonomous and controllable tariff system. This effort serves as a model for other developing countries seeking to strengthen their customs capabilities and economic independence.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China Expands Global Pharma Access Through Healthcare Reforms

China Expands Global Pharma Access Through Healthcare Reforms

China's National Healthcare Security Administration supports the development of cross-border pharmaceutical trading platforms to reduce the cost of procuring Chinese pharmaceutical products in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and other regions. By integrating online and offline centralized procurement systems, the initiative promotes the globalization of domestically produced pharmaceuticals and medical devices, enhances the international competitiveness of China's pharmaceutical industry, and benefits more developing countries. This aims to provide affordable and quality healthcare products to a wider population.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Urges Streamlined Trade Procedures Under GATT Article VIII

WTO Urges Streamlined Trade Procedures Under GATT Article VIII

This paper delves into enhancing global trade efficiency, focusing on the practical implementation strategies of GATT Article VIII. It proposes recommendations such as universal commitments, simplified data and documentation requirements, and optimized customs procedures. The aim is to reduce trade costs and promote the healthy development of global trade. The study emphasizes the importance of special and differential treatment for developing countries, as well as the provision of technical assistance, to ensure equitable participation in the global trading system.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Trade Facilitation Committee Aims to Boost Global Commerce

New Trade Facilitation Committee Aims to Boost Global Commerce

The Committee on Trade Facilitation (CTF) promotes the implementation of trade facilitation agreements, reduces trade barriers, and enhances efficiency. It faces challenges and requires strengthened cooperation and targeted assistance to ensure effective implementation. The CTF plays a crucial role in streamlining cross-border trade, benefiting businesses of all sizes, and contributing to global economic growth. Further efforts are needed to address remaining obstacles and maximize the positive impact of trade facilitation measures, especially for developing countries.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China Proposes Risk Reforms to Boost Global Trade

China Proposes Risk Reforms to Boost Global Trade

In 2007, China proposed to the WTO to promote trade facilitation through risk management. The proposal advocated for reduced inspections, differentiated treatment, and adherence to non-discrimination principles. It also emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of developing countries in the context of trade facilitation. The core idea centered on leveraging risk management techniques to streamline customs procedures and enhance international trade efficiency, while ensuring fairness and inclusivity for all WTO members, particularly those with limited resources.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Hong Kong China and Switzerland Push Trade Efficiency Reforms

Hong Kong China and Switzerland Push Trade Efficiency Reforms

The joint proposal by Hong Kong, China, and Switzerland aims to simplify import and export procedures, reduce documentary requirements, improve customs clearance efficiency, lower business costs, and promote trade growth. The proposal emphasizes minimizing procedural complexity, seeking alternative solutions, enhancing efficiency, conducting regular reviews, and abolishing unnecessary measures. It also focuses on the needs of developing and least developed countries through technical assistance and capacity building, jointly building a more open and efficient global trading system.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Tech with Sinogerman Partnership

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Tech with Sinogerman Partnership

Within the framework of the World Customs Organization, Uzbekistan virtually studied Germany's post-clearance audit (PCA) experience to improve its customs management and build an efficient and compliant PCA system. The study covered the introduction of Germany's PCA system, case studies, AEO linkage, and the application of information technology. This provided valuable insights for Uzbekistan and serves as a reference for other developing countries. The focus was on learning best practices to enhance compliance and streamline trade processes through effective post-clearance controls.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Samoa Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Workshop

Samoa Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Workshop

The World Customs Organization successfully held a TRS (Time Release Study) workshop in Samoa, supporting the country in optimizing customs procedures and improving trade efficiency. The workshop brought together representatives from various sectors to discuss the TRS methodology in depth and develop a national action plan. This initiative will promote trade facilitation in Samoa, enhance its international competitiveness, and provide a reference for other developing countries. The implementation of TRS aims to streamline processes and reduce clearance times, ultimately benefiting Samoa's economy.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Madagascar Shares Disaster Resilience Strategies Amid Crises

Madagascar Shares Disaster Resilience Strategies Amid Crises

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation and Columbia University's National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP), held a workshop in Madagascar to enhance the country's capacity to respond to pandemics and natural disasters. Through the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and practical exercises, Madagascar gained valuable lessons, providing insights for other developing countries facing challenges posed by climate change. The workshop aimed to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience through customs facilitation and international collaboration.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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