WCO Urges Digital Shift Regional Ties to Boost African Trade

WCO Urges Digital Shift Regional Ties to Boost African Trade

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization attended the East and Southern Africa Regional Customs Research Conference, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation and regional cooperation for African trade development. The conference focused on the impact of emerging issues on customs and trade, calling for enhanced data utilization, talent development, and collaboration with the private sector to promote the construction of the African single market. The World Customs Organization will continue to support African customs development and contribute to the prosperity of African trade.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Customs Declaration Form Adds Trade Country (region) Indicator to Promote International Trade Transparency

New Customs Declaration Form Adds Trade Country (region) Indicator to Promote International Trade Transparency

The General Administration of Customs recently announced reforms to the customs declaration process, introducing a new 'Trade Country (Region)' indicator. This change aims to enhance the accuracy of customs declarations and reflect the true state of international trade, in line with the developments of economic globalization. The indicator will streamline the customs clearance process, improve efficiency, and assist businesses in conducting more effective global trade.

07/21/2025 Logistics
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WCO Launches Scholarships for Small Island Economies Capacity Building

WCO Launches Scholarships for Small Island Economies Capacity Building

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a scholarship program for Small Island Economies (SIEs) to enhance the capacity building of customs officials in these regions. The program provides training in areas such as international economics, trade regulations, data analysis, and risk management to SIEs customs officials through needs assessments, curriculum design, and expert instruction. It aims to help them improve customs management and promote sustainable economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Introduces French Online Courses for Trade Efficiency

WCO Introduces French Online Courses for Trade Efficiency

The WCO has launched a French version of its Data Model and Customs Valuation online course to help customs officers in French-speaking regions improve their skills and promote trade facilitation. This initiative aims to empower customs officials with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively implement the WCO Data Model and apply customs valuation principles. By providing access to this comprehensive training in French, the WCO is enhancing accessibility and fostering greater participation, ultimately contributing to more efficient and transparent customs procedures and smoother international trade flows.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Stresses Talent Development to Boost Global Economy

WCO Stresses Talent Development to Boost Global Economy

The WCO emphasized the crucial role of customs talent development in economic growth at a Paris seminar. Participants shared experiences and called for sustained investment in customs training and capacity building. The seminar highlighted how skilled customs officials contribute to efficient trade facilitation, revenue collection, and border security, ultimately fostering economic development. The WCO urged member administrations to prioritize customs training programs to enhance their effectiveness and contribute to national economic prosperity. Continuous investment in human capital is key to modernizing customs administrations and achieving sustainable economic growth.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Customs Modernizes HR to Enhance West African Trade

Burkina Faso Customs Modernizes HR to Enhance West African Trade

Burkina Faso Customs, with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), has officially adopted human resource tools such as a competency framework and job catalogue to enhance talent management and organizational effectiveness. This initiative, a key outcome of the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, will help Burkina Faso Customs achieve its organizational goals, facilitate trade, and promote economic development in the West African region. The implementation aims to modernize HR practices and build a skilled workforce capable of meeting the challenges of international trade and customs administration.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zimbabwe Boosts Trade Audits with WCO Support

Zimbabwe Boosts Trade Audits with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Zimbabwe to enhance its customs' post-clearance audit (PCA) capabilities, implement the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), and strengthen customs-private sector cooperation. The workshop aimed to improve the effectiveness of PCA processes, ensuring compliance and promoting legitimate trade. By building capacity in PCA, Zimbabwe customs can better manage risks, optimize revenue collection, and contribute to a more efficient and secure trading environment. The event underscored the importance of collaboration between customs administrations and businesses in achieving trade facilitation goals.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Costa Rica WCO Boost Trade Pact Implementation

Costa Rica WCO Boost Trade Pact Implementation

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Costa Rica's customs in enhancing the implementation of trade facilitation agreements. By providing resources and training, it aims to strengthen customs capabilities and optimize cross-border trade processes, leading to improved international trade compliance and economic growth.

08/06/2025 Logistics
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Guide to Resolving Bill of Lading Disputes in Import Customs

Guide to Resolving Bill of Lading Disputes in Import Customs

Discrepancies between the Bill of Lading (B/L) and the actual cargo (quantity, weight, volume) are common in import customs clearance. This article details strategies to address this issue, including verifying data, amending the B/L, and contacting the LCL agent. It also answers frequently asked questions regarding document requirements for exchanging the B/L, LCL charges, and the transportation of goods within bonded zones. This guide aims to improve customs clearance efficiency by providing practical solutions and insights into common challenges.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Logistics Firms Tackle Seal Issues Port Delays and Customs Hurdles

Logistics Firms Tackle Seal Issues Port Delays and Customs Hurdles

This article delves into common and challenging issues in freight forwarding operations. It provides solutions for problems such as lead seal handling, port entry strategy selection, customs information inquiries, destination port changes, and returns. It aims to help you avoid pitfalls and achieve efficient customs clearance. The practical guidance helps freight forwarders navigate complex situations and ensure smooth cargo movement.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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