The World Customs Organization (WCO) will hold a technical conference in 2026, bringing together experts and stakeholders from the global customs sector to discuss innovations in customs technology and modernization in management. The conference aims to promote international cooperation and the sharing of experiences, fostering improvements in customs efficiency and transparency.
The WCO relaunched its Leadership Development Programme, aiming to enhance the leadership and management capabilities of customs officials. This initiative addresses international trade challenges and promotes customs modernization. Sixteen countries have benefited from the program. The WCO expresses gratitude to China, Japan, and Korea for their financial contributions and support.
Lavrio Port is a significant maritime hub in southeastern Greece, responsible for the management and development of the port area, connecting domestic and international transport. Through modernization investments and environmental measures, the port plays a crucial role in alleviating pressure on Piraeus Port, promoting short-sea shipping, and supporting sustainable economic development.
The WCO research unit provides theoretical support for customs policy formulation through systematic studies and empirical analysis, promoting the modernization of international trade. Annual research conferences facilitate communication between academia and practitioners, aiding in policy adjustments and customs innovation, thereby laying the foundation for the safe and efficient development of global trade.
Mormugao Port, located in Goa, India, is a significant deep-water port on the western coast of India. It primarily handles iron ore exports and coal imports, with recent additions of liquid bulk and general cargo handling. Renamed Mormugao Port Authority in 2022, it faces opportunities and challenges related to modernization and sustainable development.
Santos Port is the largest container port in Brazil and Latin America. After undergoing modernization and historical transformations, it supports the country's major agricultural exports. In recent years, the port's throughput has experienced rapid growth, demonstrating strong economic vitality, and it is expected to continue driving regional and global trade development in the future.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Competency-Based Human Resource Management (CBHRM) workshop for the Serbian government, aiming to enhance human resource management and promote customs modernization within Serbian Customs. The workshop covered strategic HRM, HRM systems, the CBHRM framework, and project management. This initiative supports Serbian Customs in building a talent-driven organization.
Mardafu, the managing director of Hutchison Port Holdings Group, stated that the group intends to invest in bulk terminal projects, marking a diversification in its business activities. Additionally, the group will strengthen its supply chain management and build distribution centers to enhance logistics efficiency. The demand for modernization in Chinese ports presents promising opportunities for future investments.
Dresden International Airport, located in Saxony, Germany, serves as a significant aviation hub connecting major cities to Europe and the Mediterranean region. Since it began operations in 1935, the airport has undergone continuous modernization and now handles over 1.5 million passengers annually. It offers a wide range of services to cater to travelers' needs, contributing to economic development.
The WCO assisted Jordan Customs in establishing an internal trainer team to enhance training capabilities. A competency-based approach was adopted to support customs modernization. Data analysis was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the training and optimize resource allocation. This initiative strengthens Jordan Customs' ability to deliver effective training programs and contribute to regional and international customs cooperation.
