WCO Shifts Focus to Capacity Building Amid Economic Strains

WCO Shifts Focus to Capacity Building Amid Economic Strains

A high-level working group meeting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) explored customs capacity building in the context of the global economic situation. The meeting reviewed project progress and planned the functions of the new committee, aiming to contribute to the development of customs worldwide. Discussions focused on enhancing efficiency and effectiveness of customs administrations to facilitate trade and ensure security, aligning with the WCO's commitment to supporting its members in adapting to evolving global challenges.

Breaking Barriers: How Southwest China’s Rail-Port Summit is Revolutionizing Regional

Breaking Barriers: How Southwest China’s Rail-Port Summit is Revolutionizing Regional

A meeting was held in Fangchenggang by the railway bureau of the Southwest region and Beibu Gulf International Port Group to promote logistics integration in rail-sea combined transport, breaking down barriers between different transportation modes. The meeting gathered various stakeholders to discuss comprehensive logistics services and enhance the convenience of outbound passages. By establishing a joint marketing platform and implementing pricing incentives, it aims to reduce logistics costs for enterprises, improve market competitiveness, and provide high-quality services to customers.

11/07/2023 Logistics
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Global Customs and Rights Holders Strengthen IP Protections

Global Customs and Rights Holders Strengthen IP Protections

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held its 9th Rights Holders Consultation Group Meeting, focusing on the current state of intellectual property infringement and discussing challenges such as IP protection in the e-commerce environment and environmentally sound disposal of infringing goods. The meeting emphasized strengthening cooperation between customs and rights holders, building information exchange platforms, and jointly combating counterfeit goods to maintain fair trade practices and promote global economic prosperity. This collaborative approach aims to effectively address IP infringements and safeguard legitimate trade.

Latin America Enhances Trade with Crossborder Partnerships

Latin America Enhances Trade with Crossborder Partnerships

The World Customs Organization supported a Trade Facilitation Committee meeting for Latin American countries, focusing on issues such as expedited customs clearance, transit, and cooperation among border agencies. The meeting emphasized strengthening collaboration between border agencies and the private sector, as well as monitoring the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) to ensure the sustainability and success of trade facilitation efforts. These discussions aim to streamline processes and foster a more efficient and collaborative trade environment within the region.

WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

The 28th SAFE Working Group meeting focused on the review and implementation monitoring of the SAFE Framework, emphasizing customs-private sector cooperation and optimizing questionnaires. Key topics included data strategy, green customs initiatives, promotion of AEO validation courses, revision of work plans, and extension of the review cycle. Enhanced customs cooperation with aviation and port sectors was also highlighted. The meeting injected new momentum into global trade security cooperation, foreshadowing a future of safer, more efficient, and sustainable global trade systems.

WCO SAFE Upgrade Boosts SME Security in Global Ecommerce

WCO SAFE Upgrade Boosts SME Security in Global Ecommerce

The 30th WCO SAFE Working Group meeting focused on empowering MSMEs and securing emerging trade models. It promoted the continuous evolution of the SAFE Framework through measures like upgrading technical standards, expanding AEO programs, and strengthening the security of cross-border e-commerce and free zone trade. The meeting emphasized data security, standardization, MSME participation, and the application of emerging technologies. These efforts aim to build a safer, more efficient, and inclusive global trade system, contributing to global economic prosperity.

WCO Group Targets Doubled Customs Efficiency with Inspection Tech

WCO Group Targets Doubled Customs Efficiency with Inspection Tech

The 8th meeting of the World Customs Organization's Technical Expert Group on Non-Intrusive Inspection (TEG-NII) focused on the development of the Unified File Format (UFF) and NII-related matters, aiming to enhance customs supervision efficiency. The meeting emphasized the application of technologies such as big data and artificial intelligence, and discussed topics including radiation detection, data analysis, and centralized image analysis. The goal is to promote the modernization of global customs supervision and facilitate trade security and facilitation.

Global Customs Network Boosts Cooperation During Pandemic

Global Customs Network Boosts Cooperation During Pandemic

The Regional Intelligence Liaison Office (RILO) network held its second virtual meeting to strengthen international cooperation during the pandemic. The meeting highlighted RILO's crucial role in data quality and combating illegal wildlife trade. Participants also discussed involvement in WCO meetings and preparations for the global RILO conference. Facing global challenges, the RILO network will continue to enhance cooperation and capabilities to contribute to global trade security and economic development. The focus remains on improving information sharing and coordinated efforts to address evolving threats.

WCO Outlines Plan for Postpandemic Supply Chain Resilience

WCO Outlines Plan for Postpandemic Supply Chain Resilience

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online meeting with customs representatives in Geneva to discuss how customs can contribute to global supply chain recovery in the post-pandemic era. The meeting highlighted the cooperation between the WCO and the WTO, clarified the work priorities for 2021 regarding pandemic response and technology empowerment, and emphasized the importance of building resilient supply chains. The global customs community looks forward to strengthening communication and cooperation to jointly address challenges.

WCO Boosts Customs Training Programs Globally

WCO Boosts Customs Training Programs Globally

The 9th Global Meeting of Heads of WCO Regional Capacity Building Offices, Regional Training Centers, and Vice-Chair Offices highlighted the critical role of regional institutions in capacity building. The meeting reaffirmed commitments to the WCO’s annual Capacity Building Needs Assessment, donor engagement, and the maintenance of regional experts. Discussions also focused on the development of new tools, such as the WCO Training Diagnostics tool, aimed at strengthening regional cooperation, enhancing the capacity of member customs administrations, and addressing global trade challenges.