WCO Enhances Nigeria Ghana Customs to Boost Trade

WCO Enhances Nigeria Ghana Customs to Boost Trade

With WCO support, Nigeria and Ghana jointly organized a training of trainers program on valuation, aiming to enhance customs valuation capabilities and promote trade facilitation in both countries. Following the termination of contracts with private inspection companies and the return of valuation responsibilities to customs, this training covered technical valuation, valuation control, and trainer skills. The goal is to strengthen the national valuation trainer pool in both countries, injecting new momentum into trade development in West Africa. This initiative is expected to improve valuation accuracy and efficiency, ultimately contributing to smoother trade flows.

St Lucia Aims to Enhance Trade Via AEO Program

St Lucia Aims to Enhance Trade Via AEO Program

Saint Lucia initiated its AEO program exploration in 2009, aiming to simplify customs procedures and enhance business competitiveness by certifying secure and reliable trade operators. A workshop shared Jamaica's experience, emphasizing the importance of swift action. While the private sector expressed concerns, it pledged support. AEO certification is a global trend, and Saint Lucia needs to overcome challenges and seize opportunities to achieve trade facilitation and economic development. The program seeks to streamline processes and improve efficiency for authorized economic operators, fostering a more competitive and attractive trade environment.

WCO Chief Praises Uzbekistans Growing Trade Prospects

WCO Chief Praises Uzbekistans Growing Trade Prospects

In 2010, the WCO Secretary-General visited Uzbekistan, meeting with the President to focus on regional customs cooperation and economic development. As a double-landlocked country, Uzbekistan faces unique challenges but remains committed to trade liberalization, emphasizing the importance of the private sector and education. The WCO pledged its support, highlighting the role of customs in facilitating trade. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to jointly promote regional economic development. The visit underscored the importance of customs cooperation in fostering economic growth in Central Asia.

Bolivia Expands Trade Efficiency with SECOWCO AEO Program

Bolivia Expands Trade Efficiency with SECOWCO AEO Program

The World Customs Organization, under the SECO-WCO framework, conducted a follow-up assessment of Bolivia's AEO program, aiming to optimize its effectiveness and sustainability. By revising the AEO program, communication strategy, and capacity-building training, the number of Bolivian AEO companies doubled, strengthening the program. Future recommendations include strengthening government-private sector cooperation, continuous capacity building, and regular performance evaluations to enhance trade security and facilitation. The assessment highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to ensure the AEO program's long-term success and contribution to Bolivia's trade environment.

Russian Luxury Goods Face Shipping Hurdles to China

Russian Luxury Goods Face Shipping Hurdles to China

This article provides an in-depth analysis of various methods for forwarding Russian luxury goods purchased on behalf to China, including direct mail, dedicated logistics lines, private forwarding, commercial trade, and postal forwarding. It details the advantages and disadvantages of each option, the target audience, and answers frequently asked questions. The aim is to help personal shoppers (Daigou) choose the most suitable forwarding solution, reduce customs clearance risks, and achieve efficient and compliant cross-border transportation. It focuses on optimizing the process for a smooth and legal transfer of luxury items.

Lean Ecommerce Strategies Boost Putian Guangdong Entrepreneurs

Lean Ecommerce Strategies Boost Putian Guangdong Entrepreneurs

By 2026, the cross-border e-commerce market will be fiercely competitive. This article focuses on entrepreneurs in Putian and Guangdong, emphasizing the importance of a light asset model. It provides a practical guide covering five key aspects: hardware, software, mindset, decision-making, and private domain operation. The core argument is that in an uncertain environment, choice outweighs effort, and precise traffic acquisition combined with a long-term perspective are crucial for success. This guide aims to help entrepreneurs navigate the challenges and thrive in the evolving landscape of cross-border e-commerce.

WCO Reports Palestines Progress in Mercator Trade Program

WCO Reports Palestines Progress in Mercator Trade Program

A World Customs Organization (WCO) assessment reveals Palestine's active participation in the Mercator Programme, which supports the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and simplifies trade procedures. The Palestinian Customs Administration has benefited significantly in areas such as tariffs and risk management, maintaining close ties with the private sector and neighboring customs administrations. The assessment lays the groundwork for future tailored support, and the WCO will continue to provide assistance to promote Palestinian economic development and regional trade facilitation. This collaboration aims to further streamline customs processes and enhance trade efficiency.

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.

WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

At the invitation of the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE), the World Customs Organization (WCO) analyzed challenges in implementing the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and assisted in developing a five-year strategic plan. Through in-depth discussions with government and the private sector, the WCO provided guidance for Cambodian customs reform and modernization. The aim is to enhance Cambodia's competitiveness in global trade, promoting economic growth and sustainable development. The cooperation focuses on streamlining procedures and improving efficiency within the Cambodian customs system.

US Infrastructure Crisis Can 1 Trillion Plan Spur Recovery

US Infrastructure Crisis Can 1 Trillion Plan Spur Recovery

The trillion-dollar infrastructure plan proposed by the Trump administration has seen little progress, drawing widespread attention. Experts urge focusing on key areas and addressing financing issues through public-private partnerships. The new Secretary of Transportation emphasizes the necessity of reform, but bipartisan disagreement persists in Congress regarding funding sources. The path to upgrading American infrastructure faces both challenges and opportunities. The lack of concrete action raises concerns about its potential impact on economic growth and competitiveness. Finding common ground on funding mechanisms is crucial for moving forward.