MENA Region Boosts Customs Risk Management Via WCO Workshop

MENA Region Boosts Customs Risk Management Via WCO Workshop

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Workshop on Risk Assessment and Targeting, sponsored by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and hosted by Qatar Customs, was held in Doha. The workshop aimed to enhance the risk management capabilities of customs administrations in the region. Focusing on risk assessment and profiling, the event facilitated the exchange of experiences through case studies and national reports. The goal was to improve customs' ability to identify and manage risks, enabling them to address the challenges posed by increasingly complex global trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Antitrafficking Training in MENA to Protect Cultural Heritage

WCO Launches Antitrafficking Training in MENA to Protect Cultural Heritage

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with various partners, successfully conducted a training-of-trainers workshop for customs officers in the Middle East and North Africa region. This initiative aimed to enhance the capacity of customs personnel to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural property. The training covered cultural property identification, risk management, and international cooperation, emphasizing the importance of implementing relevant WCO resolutions. This training represents a significant step by the WCO in the field of cultural heritage protection and contributes to strengthening the defenses against cultural property crime.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Rwandair Expands Crossborder Logistics Dominance in East Africa

Rwandair Expands Crossborder Logistics Dominance in East Africa

RwandAir has become a key player in the East African market thanks to its rapidly expanding network and flexible operational strategies. By focusing on route development, digital transformation, and commitments to sustainability, the airline is gradually enhancing its global competitiveness and influence within the industry.

08/05/2025 Airlines
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Kisumu Port Upgrade Enhances East Africa Trade Hub

Kisumu Port Upgrade Enhances East Africa Trade Hub

The Kenyan government is investing in the reconstruction of Kisumu Port to upgrade its ferry terminal and dry dock. This aims to improve the port's operational efficiency and service capabilities, strengthening its key position on East African shipping routes. The project is expected to boost trade and economic prosperity for both Kenya and the wider East African region by facilitating smoother and more efficient transport of goods and passengers. The upgraded port will play a vital role in regional connectivity and economic development.

09/29/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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WCO JICA Boost Customs Audits in East Africa

WCO JICA Boost Customs Audits in East Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly launched the "East African Post Clearance Audit Instructor Training Program" (MTP). This initiative aims to cultivate a high-quality regional instructor pool, enhance the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities of East African customs administrations, and facilitate trade. Through systematic training, curriculum development, and expert guidance, the program seeks to improve PCA skills, promote trade facilitation, strengthen regional cooperation, and achieve sustainable development in the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Rwandair Targets Ecommerce Logistics Dominance in East Africa

Rwandair Targets Ecommerce Logistics Dominance in East Africa

RwandAir, an emerging aviation hub in East Africa, is creating value for global trade partners through its flexible network, innovative digital tools, and robust operations. By upgrading its fleet, implementing a digital strategy, and committing to sustainable development, RwandAir is strengthening its market position and contributing to the growth of e-commerce in Africa. The airline's strategic initiatives aim to enhance connectivity and efficiency, positioning Rwanda as a key player in the region's logistics landscape and fostering economic development through increased trade opportunities.

12/30/2025 Airlines
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East Africa Boosts Trade with Regional Audit Collaboration

East Africa Boosts Trade with Regional Audit Collaboration

With the support of the WCO/JICA joint project, the tax authorities of the five East African countries launched a senior trainer program for Post Clearance Audit (PCA) to enhance regional PCA capabilities and promote trade facilitation. By establishing a network of experts, improving training capabilities, and developing cooperation plans, customs administrations in East Africa will strengthen cooperation, address challenges, and contribute to regional economic development. The initiative aims to build a sustainable framework for PCA expertise and collaboration within the East African Community.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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East Africa Enhances Customs Audits Via WCOJICA Training

East Africa Enhances Customs Audits Via WCOJICA Training

The MTP project, a joint initiative between the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has successfully developed a team of customs audit trainers and created regional training materials in East Africa. This initiative has significantly enhanced the region's customs audit capabilities, contributing to trade facilitation and regional economic development. The project's impact lies in its focus on building local expertise and providing tailored resources to address specific challenges within the East African context.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Middle East Tensions Escalate: Freight Market Volatile

Middle East Tensions Escalate: Freight Market Volatile

Tensions in the Middle East have sharply escalated due to the potential U.S. military strikes on Iran. The freight market has reacted swiftly, with significant increases in VLCC and LR2 freight rates, alongside soaring insurance costs. The international community urges for a peaceful resolution to the conflict to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.

06/23/2025 Logistics
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Homzmart Disrupts Middle East Furniture Ecommerce Market

Homzmart Disrupts Middle East Furniture Ecommerce Market

Egyptian furniture e-commerce platform Homzmart reached one million users in three years and is expanding into the Saudi Arabian market through funding. Its success is attributed to a strong supply chain, self-built logistics, technology empowerment, and an innovative offline experience store model. Although not yet profitable, Homzmart demonstrates significant potential in the Middle Eastern home furnishings market, providing valuable experience for other e-commerce businesses. The company's approach highlights the importance of a robust infrastructure and customer-centric strategies in achieving growth in the region's competitive e-commerce landscape.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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