WCO Backs Gambias Customs Reform for West African Leadership

WCO Backs Gambias Customs Reform for West African Leadership

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, is assisting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in building a competency-based human resource management system. Through expert consultations and institutionalization efforts, the GRA is expected to become a benchmark for human resource management in West Africa, offering valuable lessons for other developing countries. This initiative aims to strengthen the GRA's capabilities and contribute to its overall effectiveness and efficiency in customs administration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New HS 2028 Codes Target Global Plastic Waste Trafficking

New HS 2028 Codes Target Global Plastic Waste Trafficking

HS 2028 revises customs codes to more accurately identify and classify plastic waste, especially hazardous waste, thereby strengthening the implementation of the Basel Convention. This new coding system aims to improve customs regulatory efficiency, standardize corporate compliance, and ultimately curb the illegal transboundary movement of plastic waste, protecting the global environment. The revised codes facilitate better tracking and control of plastic waste shipments, ensuring environmentally sound management and preventing illegal dumping in developing countries.

02/05/2026 HS Code Query
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WCO Scholarship Program Trains Future Customs Leaders

WCO Scholarship Program Trains Future Customs Leaders

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Scholarship Program aims to enhance the professional skills and leadership abilities of customs officials from developing countries, fostering the reform and modernization of their national customs systems. The program includes online learning, intensive training, and field visits, providing participants with opportunities to interact with international customs leaders and learn advanced practices, ultimately contributing to global customs development. The scholarship supports building a strong customs workforce and promoting effective international collaboration.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Tackles Customs Law Reform As Nationalism Grows

WCO Tackles Customs Law Reform As Nationalism Grows

The 13th World Customs Law Conference focused on customs law changes and multilateral trade system challenges against the backdrop of nationalism. The World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized the crucial role of capacity building in addressing trade protectionism and presented its work in e-commerce. The conference also discussed issues such as the participation of Least Developed Countries in international trade, the EU Customs Code, and challenges for customs brokers. The aim was to promote trade facilitation and security, and to maintain the stability of the global trading system.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Certification Enhances Trade in Latin America

WCO Certification Enhances Trade in Latin America

The World Customs Organization successfully held a Mercator Programme Advisor certification workshop for the Spanish-speaking Americas region. The aim was to cultivate a group of high-quality MPA experts and promote the coordinated implementation of trade facilitation measures globally. This initiative helps relevant countries optimize customs clearance processes, reduce trade costs, and improve efficiency, injecting strong momentum into regional trade facilitation. The workshop focused on equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement the WCO's Mercator Programme, ultimately contributing to streamlined trade procedures and economic growth.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho and South Africa jointly released an end-to-end clearance time study report, aiming to optimize border management and improve cross-border trade efficiency. The study focuses on the Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge border posts, highlighting the importance of trade facilitation in unlocking the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Both countries are committed to implementing the report's recommendations, strengthening economic ties, and promoting regional economic development. The study underscores the critical role of efficient border procedures in fostering trade and growth within the region.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Japan Enhances Trade Risk Management Amid Global Uncertainty

Japan Enhances Trade Risk Management Amid Global Uncertainty

This paper analyzes Japan's risk management practices in trade facilitation and corrects a date error regarding Japan's risk management experience in WTO document TN/TF/W/42/Corr.1. It emphasizes the importance of risk management in Japan's trade facilitation efforts and offers valuable lessons for other countries. The paper highlights how effective risk management strategies have contributed to streamlined customs procedures and enhanced overall trade efficiency in Japan. This provides a practical example for nations seeking to improve their own trade facilitation frameworks through robust risk assessment and mitigation measures.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Dosa Port Nigers Trade And Transportation Hub

Dosa Port Nigers Trade And Transportation Hub

Dosso Port, located in Niger's agricultural region, serves as a crucial transportation hub and trade center, connected to the road and air networks of Niamey and neighboring countries. This port has promoted local economic development and supports the processing and distribution of agricultural products.

07/24/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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California Ports Boost Climate Resilience Against Rising Seas

California Ports Boost Climate Resilience Against Rising Seas

Four California ports jointly held a workshop on “Storm, Flood, and Sea Level Defense Strategies” to discuss tackling climate change challenges. The Port of Rotterdam shared its flood defense experience, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. California ports are actively developing response strategies and strengthening regional cooperation. By upgrading infrastructure, improving drainage systems, adopting innovative technologies, and developing emergency plans, ports can enhance their resilience to storms and floods, ensuring the smooth flow of global trade.

02/04/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Detailed Requirements for Shipping Bills in Latin American Ports

Detailed Requirements for Shipping Bills in Latin American Ports

This article summarizes the special requirements for ocean bills of lading at ports in various Latin American countries, highlighting the differences in bill content and acceptance standards. It covers the varying regulations in countries such as Mexico, Guatemala, and Colombia regarding electronic releases, destination port releases, and tax identification numbers. This understanding aids practitioners in navigating the complexities and compliance challenges of international shipping. Being aware of policy changes and details can help avoid misunderstandings and risks in trade, facilitating smoother customs clearance.

07/28/2025 Logistics
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