WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is upgrading the PICARD Professional Standards (PS) to adapt to the evolving global trade landscape. The updated standards will encompass key areas such as public-private sector cooperation, customs and tax function integration, and coordinated border management. It will also address emerging trends, security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. The WCO invites stakeholders to participate in capacity building initiatives to jointly promote global customs development. This collaborative effort aims to enhance customs efficiency and effectiveness worldwide.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Iran Enhances Customs Via WCO Japanbacked AEO Program

Iran Enhances Customs Via WCO Japanbacked AEO Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the CCF Japan, supported Iranian Customs in hosting a national workshop on Customs Procedure Informatization and the AEO Program. The workshop aimed to enhance customs clearance efficiency and strengthen border control through information technology. It also focused on upgrading the AEO program to promote trade facilitation and improve Iran's competitiveness in global trade. The initiative underscores the importance of digital transformation and international cooperation in streamlining customs processes and fostering economic growth.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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MENA Customs Enhances Regional Ties to Spur Economic Growth

MENA Customs Enhances Regional Ties to Spur Economic Growth

The inaugural meeting of the MENA Customs Resource Mobilization Working Group was successfully held in Bahrain. The meeting focused on enhancing regional customs administration capabilities, promoting trade facilitation, and fostering economic integration. Participants discussed strategies for resource mobilization to support customs modernization and efficiency improvements. The initiative aims to strengthen customs cooperation within the MENA region, contributing to sustainable economic growth and regional stability. Key topics included best practices in revenue collection, risk management, and the use of technology in customs operations.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahrain Hosts Regional WTO Trade Facilitation Workshop

Bahrain Hosts Regional WTO Trade Facilitation Workshop

In 2015, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held the 3rd Regional Workshop on the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in Bahrain, aiming to promote understanding and implementation of the TFA in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The workshop brought together customs and trade experts to discuss key TFA provisions, technical assistance, institutional cooperation, and member case studies. During the event, Japan announced its ratification of the TFA, injecting new momentum into trade facilitation efforts in the MENA region.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Swedish Customs Chief Meets WCO on Digital Trade Modernization

Swedish Customs Chief Meets WCO on Digital Trade Modernization

The Director General of Swedish Customs led a delegation to visit the World Customs Organization (WCO), focusing on discussions about digital transformation, international cooperation, and trade facilitation. Emphasis was placed on leveraging information technology to enhance customs efficiency, strengthening information sharing, and jointly addressing global challenges. Appreciation was expressed for Sweden's significant support in WCO projects. This meeting injected new vitality into the future development of global customs, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and innovative solutions in the international trade landscape.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Unveils Datadriven Framework for Crossborder Ecommerce Risks

WCO Unveils Datadriven Framework for Crossborder Ecommerce Risks

This paper provides an in-depth interpretation of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Cross-Border E-Commerce Framework of Standards, analyzing its core principles and implementation strategies to help businesses and government agencies grasp the new opportunities and challenges of cross-border e-commerce. The framework covers advance electronic data, risk management, facilitation, taxation, security, cooperation, public awareness, measurement and analysis, and technology application. It aims to promote the development of cross-border e-commerce while ensuring security and compliance.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Rail Executives Address Freight Challenges at Railtrends Conference

Rail Executives Address Freight Challenges at Railtrends Conference

Leaders from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) discussed key trends in rail freight at the RailTrends conference, focusing on issues such as labor negotiations and service quality. Both associations expressed their commitment to strengthening collaboration to promote sustainable industry development and lay the groundwork for future innovation and cooperation. This partnership aims to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities within the rail freight sector, ensuring its continued growth and efficiency.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Aviation Industry Faces Hurdles in Zerocarbon Transition Postcop27

Aviation Industry Faces Hurdles in Zerocarbon Transition Postcop27

Following COP27, the aviation industry faces the challenge of balancing economic recovery with environmental transition. This analysis examines the industry's current state, progress in international cooperation, corporate emission reduction initiatives, and the paradox of growth versus emission reduction. Technological innovation and financial investment are crucial for achieving net-zero emissions. The aviation industry needs to actively seek government support and collaborate to address climate change. Balancing growth with sustainability requires innovative solutions and a commitment to reducing the industry's environmental impact.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Businesses Adapt Strategies to Mitigate Supply Chain Disruptions

Businesses Adapt Strategies to Mitigate Supply Chain Disruptions

The global supply chain is suffering from the "Bullwhip Effect." Companies need to optimize inventory, streamline product lines, and flexibly adjust orders. Strengthening trust and cooperation with suppliers and sharing information are crucial. Improving operational efficiency and using real-time information for rapid response are key to taming the "Bullwhip Effect." This enhances supply chain resilience and secures a competitive advantage. By implementing these strategies, businesses can mitigate the negative consequences of demand fluctuations and maintain a stable and efficient supply chain.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Asiapacific Nations Unite on Ecommerce Rules During Pandemic

Asiapacific Nations Unite on Ecommerce Rules During Pandemic

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop for Asia-Pacific members, focusing on the effective implementation of the E-Commerce Framework of Standards (E-Commerce FoS) to address challenges arising from the pandemic-accelerated growth of e-commerce. The meeting covered topics such as advance electronic data, data exchange, tax collection, cooperation & coordination, and technology applications. The aim was to promote trade facilitation, ensure effective customs control and revenue collection, and foster the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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