WCO Backs Secretariat in Postpandemic Trade Revival

WCO Backs Secretariat in Postpandemic Trade Revival

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Council supported the Secretariat, focusing on key areas like capacity building and trade facilitation. By adopting resolutions such as the HS 2022 Amendments, the WCO COVID-19 Action Plan, and the SAFE Framework 2021, the WCO aims to simplify customs procedures, strengthen international cooperation, and improve customs management. These efforts are designed to contribute to global economic recovery and safeguard trade development in the post-pandemic era by empowering customs administrations around the world.

WCO Introduces AI Course for Xray Analysis to Boost Trade Security

WCO Introduces AI Course for Xray Analysis to Boost Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a new online course, "Image Data Analysis," aimed at enhancing customs officers' ability to analyze X-ray images using AI technology. The course covers image processing, convolutional neural networks, and other relevant topics. Through practical exercises, participants will learn how to build AI models, contributing to a more efficient and secure customs environment. This program empowers customs officials with the skills to leverage AI for improved detection and risk management.

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.

WCO Enhances Asiapacific IP Protection with Certified Experts

WCO Enhances Asiapacific IP Protection with Certified Experts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has completed a Technical Operational Advisor (TOA) certification training program in Japan, focusing on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aims to enhance the region's customs capabilities in combating counterfeit and pirated goods. Following rigorous assessment and training, customs officials from various countries will become key WCO resources in the region, providing technical support to member customs administrations and collectively addressing the increasingly complex challenges of intellectual property infringement.

WCO Aids Palestine in Trade Facilitation Through Audit Reforms

WCO Aids Palestine in Trade Facilitation Through Audit Reforms

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic mission to Palestine, aiming to enhance Palestinian Customs' PCA capabilities and promote trade facilitation. Through assessments, discussions, and site visits, the WCO provided targeted capacity-building support to Palestinian Customs. This assistance helps Palestine establish a more efficient and transparent customs system, ultimately fostering economic development. The mission focused on identifying areas for improvement and recommending strategies to strengthen their post-clearance audit processes.

West and Central African Customs Officials Boost Skills Via WCO Training

West and Central African Customs Officials Boost Skills Via WCO Training

Customs trainees from French-speaking West, Central, and parts of African countries visited the WCO Secretariat. Through thematic lectures and exchange visits, they gained in-depth understanding of the WCO's operational mechanisms, strategic planning, and capacity building projects. The training aims to enhance the professional level of customs officers in developing countries, promote international customs cooperation, and build a safer and more efficient global trade system. The visit fostered knowledge sharing and strengthened relationships within the global customs community.

WCO Prioritizes Trade Recovery Innovation Amid Global Challenges

WCO Prioritizes Trade Recovery Innovation Amid Global Challenges

World Customs Organization (WCO) Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya held an online meeting with representatives from Geneva Customs to discuss how customs administrations can promote trade facilitation, build sustainable supply chains, and contribute to global trade prosperity in the context of global economic recovery. The discussion focused on leveraging technological innovation, fostering international cooperation, and effectively implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement. These efforts aim to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and ultimately support the growth of international commerce.

WCO Launches Online Academy to Train Trade Professionals

WCO Launches Online Academy to Train Trade Professionals

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched an online academy to enhance the customs expertise of global trade professionals. The academy offers online courses in areas such as the Harmonized System, Data Model, and Customs Valuation, providing self-paced learning, comprehensive solutions, and customized services. This initiative aims to promote trade facilitation, security, and compliance, ultimately contributing to global trade development. By offering accessible and flexible training, the WCO seeks to empower customs officials and trade stakeholders worldwide.

Guinea Adopts Wcos Ncen System to Strengthen Border Controls

Guinea Adopts Wcos Ncen System to Strengthen Border Controls

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, provided the nCEN system and related training to Guinea Customs, aiming to enhance its border enforcement capabilities. Funded by Sweden, the project covers two pillars: enforcement and trade facilitation, emphasizing collaboration with other government agencies. The introduction of the nCEN system and capacity building training have strengthened customs officers' intelligence gathering, risk analysis, and case management skills, laying a solid foundation for the modernization of Guinea Customs.

Guatemala Adopts WCO Standards to Enhance Trade with Swiss Aid

Guatemala Adopts WCO Standards to Enhance Trade with Swiss Aid

The Global Trade Facilitation Programme, a collaboration between the World Customs Organization and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, will provide technical assistance to Guatemalan Customs to facilitate its accession to the Revised Kyoto Convention. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of Guatemalan Customs, reduce trade costs, enhance trade transparency, and ultimately boost its international competitiveness, fostering economic development. This support is crucial for Guatemala to streamline its customs procedures and align with international best practices.