WCO Aids Cte Divoire in Customs Reform

WCO Aids Cte Divoire in Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the Ivorian General Directorate of Customs (DGD) in enhancing its customs valuation and commodity classification capabilities. An expert team conducted a diagnostic assessment in Côte d'Ivoire, engaging with customs officials and the private sector to propose improvements. Recommendations include strengthening personnel training, refining regulations, upgrading IT infrastructure, and fostering international cooperation. The aim is to establish an efficient and transparent customs management system, promoting economic development and trade facilitation in Côte d'Ivoire.

Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR Reform

Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR Reform

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA), with support from the World Customs Organization, is actively modernizing its GRH system based on competency models. Through the establishment of working groups, development of competency models, and participation in customized training programs, the LRA aims to improve employee quality, enhance organizational effectiveness, and strengthen organizational competitiveness. This experience provides valuable lessons for other tax authorities. The transformation focuses on building a skilled and efficient workforce to effectively manage tax administration and contribute to national development.

Bosnia Boosts Ecommerce with Wcobacked Customs Reform

Bosnia Boosts Ecommerce with Wcobacked Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Bosnia and Herzegovina focusing on cross-border e-commerce. The aim was to enhance the awareness of Bosnian Customs regarding e-commerce and to optimize clearance procedures. The workshop highlighted WCO's Framework of Standards on Cross-Border E-Commerce and the Immediate Release Guidelines. These tools are designed to help Bosnia and Herzegovina seize the opportunities presented by cross-border e-commerce, address related challenges, and ultimately achieve economic development.

Russian Ecommerce Tax Reform Challenges Chinese Sellers

Russian Ecommerce Tax Reform Challenges Chinese Sellers

Russia's cross-border e-commerce tax reform will be gradually implemented from 2027, abolishing tax exemptions for low-value parcels, which will impact Chinese sellers. The new regulations will force business model iterations and promote the market towards standardization and branding. Chinese sellers need to strengthen brand building, localization operations, and compliance capabilities to gain a competitive advantage in the post-tax-exemption era. This includes adapting to the new tax environment and focusing on providing value beyond just low prices to attract and retain Russian consumers.

US Infrastructure Push Could Spur Tax Reform

US Infrastructure Push Could Spur Tax Reform

American Trucking Associations President Bill Graves warns of a critical funding gap for US infrastructure. He suggests fuel tax reform as a potential solution, but acknowledges significant political hurdles. Graves emphasizes the need for bipartisan cooperation, stating that failure to address infrastructure issues will negatively impact the US economy. He urges policymakers to prioritize long-term economic stability over short-term political gains to ensure a robust and efficient transportation network.

Palestinian Customs Program Advances Leadership and Reform

Palestinian Customs Program Advances Leadership and Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a leadership and management development workshop for Palestinian Customs, aiming to enhance the leadership and management skills of middle and senior managers. The workshop covered key areas such as leadership, personnel management, and change management, employing interactive teaching methods. It was funded by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and the EU Customs Fund. Participants expressed significant benefits and pledged to apply the learned knowledge to their practical work. This initiative contributes to capacity building within Palestinian Customs.

Zimbabwe Enhances Trade with Wtobacked Reform Plan

Zimbabwe Enhances Trade with Wtobacked Reform Plan

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is collaborating with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority on a two-year program to assist Zimbabwe in effectively implementing the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement. The program covers key areas such as risk management, information release, post-clearance audit, and freedom of transit. It also supports the work of the National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) to promote trade development in Zimbabwe.

WCO Aids Angola in Tax Administration Reform

WCO Aids Angola in Tax Administration Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a strategic planning workshop at the headquarters of the Angolan Tax Administration (AGT) to enhance AGT's strategic planning and risk management capabilities. The workshop reviewed AGT's annual operational plan, provided recommendations for improvement, and conducted an environmental scan of AGT's risk management efforts. This event fostered collaboration among AGT departments and laid the foundation for the modernization of tax administration in Angola.

Cameroon Customs Strengthens Leadership for Strategic Reform

Cameroon Customs Strengthens Leadership for Strategic Reform

In 2015, the World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Cameroon Customs in enhancing its leadership capabilities, regaining control of outsourced functions, and promoting reforms. This support culminated in the "Mbankomo II Declaration," which aims to further support the development of Cameroon Customs. The initiative focused on strengthening internal management and fostering a more effective and autonomous customs administration.

Chinas Domestic Demand Rises Amid Global Trade Shifts in 2026

Chinas Domestic Demand Rises Amid Global Trade Shifts in 2026

The global trade environment is projected to deteriorate significantly by 2026, posing substantial challenges to China's exports. Insufficient domestic demand is the primary issue, rooted in the ongoing adjustment of the real estate market. Macroeconomic policies are expected to maintain a pro-growth stance, with a more proactive fiscal policy and a flexible monetary policy. Real estate policies will seek a balance between market stability and high-quality development. Expanding domestic demand and deepening reform and opening-up are crucial to addressing these challenges.