Asiapacific Customs Adopt Digital Tools for Modernization

Asiapacific Customs Adopt Digital Tools for Modernization

The 20th Asia-Pacific WCO Regional Training Center Heads Meeting focused on digital transformation and capacity building. Discussions centered on leveraging VR technology to enhance customs training, deepening regional cooperation, evaluating the impact of capacity building initiatives, and addressing challenges posed by the pandemic. The meeting aimed to improve the professional capabilities and modernization level of customs administrations in the Asia-Pacific region by exploring innovative training methods and fostering collaboration in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCOJICA Enhances Customs Valuation in Pacific Islands

WCOJICA Enhances Customs Valuation in Pacific Islands

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), launched a Customs Valuation Mentor Training Program for Pacific Island Countries, aiming to build a regional pool of experts and enhance customs valuation capabilities. The program promotes regional cooperation, enhances competitiveness, and achieves sustainable development by cultivating local experts and developing regional training materials. Recommended follow-up actions include strengthening training evaluation, establishing an information-sharing platform, and improving legal and regulatory frameworks.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Boosts Skills Via Remote Training

Asiapacific Customs Boosts Skills Via Remote Training

The 19th Heads of Asia Pacific WCO Regional Training Centers (RTCs) Meeting explored the role of remote training in customs capacity building during the pandemic. RTCs shared experiences, challenges, and innovative initiatives, emphasizing strengthened cooperation. They highlighted the use of data analytics and VR technologies to promote personalized and practical training. This aims to address the complex international trade environment and enhance regional customs capabilities.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Adopts WCO Framework for Ecommerce Customs

Asiapacific Adopts WCO Framework for Ecommerce Customs

The WCO Asia-Pacific Regional E-commerce Seminar focused on the implementation of cross-border e-commerce standards frameworks. Key areas discussed included advance electronic data, data exchange, tax collection, AEO extensions, and technological applications. Participants actively engaged in addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic-accelerated e-commerce transformation. The aim is to build a secure and efficient new e-commerce ecosystem in the Asia-Pacific region by fostering collaboration and addressing emerging issues related to cross-border trade and customs procedures.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Agencies Combat Plastic Waste Surge

Asiapacific Customs Agencies Combat Plastic Waste Surge

The World Customs Organization (WCO) concluded virtual diagnostic missions to Indonesia and the Philippines, aiming to enhance customs' capacity in the Asia-Pacific region to combat the illegal cross-border movement of plastic waste. The project involved assessing the current state of customs in both countries, developing improvement plans, and planning a regional workshop to foster cooperation in addressing the plastic waste challenge. This initiative supports the implementation of the Basel Convention's Plastic Waste Amendments and promotes collaborative efforts to manage plastic waste effectively.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Customs Boosts Efficiency with WCO Partnership

Colombia Customs Boosts Efficiency with WCO Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), remotely assisted the Colombian Customs (DIAN) in strategic planning and optimizing its Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) system to improve management efficiency. The project aims to build a sustainable performance management system, supporting DIAN's institutional transformation and capacity building. This initiative lays the foundation for the modernization of Colombian Customs and contributes to global trade facilitation efforts. The GTFP's support is crucial for enhancing DIAN's strategic alignment and operational effectiveness.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to AEO Certification for Customs Compliance

Guide to AEO Certification for Customs Compliance

This article provides an in-depth analysis of how AEO-certified companies maintain their certification status, emphasizing the importance of continuous risk management. It details key aspects of internal monitoring within the enterprise and external monitoring by customs, as well as the process and response strategies for customs AEO audits. The aim is to help companies understand the true value of AEO certification and achieve greater success in international trade. It highlights the ongoing commitment to compliance and security required to retain AEO status.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Customs Modernization Enhances Revenue Training

West Africa Customs Modernization Enhances Revenue Training

The West African Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), aims to enhance customs management in West Africa through regional workshops and national support. A recent resource mobilization workshop received positive feedback, and future efforts will focus on stakeholder relations. This initiative contributes to improving customs efficiency and promoting regional economic development in West Africa.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Standards Set for Customs Leadership Excellence

Global Standards Set for Customs Leadership Excellence

The WCO's PICARD Programme, in collaboration with the International Network of Customs Universities (INCU), has developed a set of professional development standards for customs middle and senior managers. These standards aim to enhance the leadership, management capabilities, and professional skills of customs officials. They can be flexibly applied to internal training and recruitment strategies, helping to build high-performing customs management teams capable of addressing increasingly complex international trade challenges. The standards provide a framework for continuous improvement and professional growth within customs administrations worldwide.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Americas Caribbean Push Gender Equality Diversity

Customs Americas Caribbean Push Gender Equality Diversity

In September 2021, SECO and WCO jointly organized a virtual forum on Gender Equality and Diversity for the Americas and the Caribbean, bringing together over 80 representatives from 24 countries. The forum aimed to promote gender equality and inclusion in customs administration. Discussions focused on work-life balance and the prevention of gender-based violence. The Spanish version of the WCO Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT) was launched. Participants agreed to integrate gender equality and diversity into the customs agenda and continue their efforts in this area.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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