EU and ASEAN Strengthen Trade Ties Through Customs Reform

EU and ASEAN Strengthen Trade Ties Through Customs Reform

Synergy in customs capacity building is crucial within the EU-ASEAN Trade and Investment (TREATI) framework. Enhancing information sharing, establishing unified standards, addressing localized needs, and strengthening public-private partnerships can effectively improve regional trade efficiency, prevent resource wastage, and achieve sustainable development. This approach injects new vitality into the economic development of both the EU and ASEAN, fostering a more robust and streamlined trading relationship between the two regions. It promotes efficiency and long-term benefits for all stakeholders involved.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Central Asia Road Transport for Trade Growth

WCO Enhances Central Asia Road Transport for Trade Growth

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization emphasized the role of road transport in improving border 'soft infrastructure' at the International Road Transport Conference. He commended Central Asian countries for joining the revised Kyoto Convention. He called for strengthened public-private partnerships to enhance transport connectivity and contribute to the prosperity and development of the Central Asian region. This collaboration aims to streamline customs procedures and facilitate trade, ultimately boosting economic growth and regional integration through efficient and reliable road transport networks.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is upgrading the PICARD Professional Standards (PS) to adapt to the evolving global trade landscape. The updated standards will encompass key areas such as public-private sector cooperation, customs and tax function integration, and coordinated border management. It will also address emerging trends, security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. The WCO invites stakeholders to participate in capacity building initiatives to jointly promote global customs development. This collaborative effort aims to enhance customs efficiency and effectiveness worldwide.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs and ICAO Strengthen Global Aviation Security

Customs and ICAO Strengthen Global Aviation Security

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized at the ICAO World Aviation Forum that aviation cargo security can be effectively enhanced by building global standards, strengthening capacity building, deepening public-private partnerships, addressing Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthening international cooperation. The WCO and ICAO will strengthen cooperation to build a global aviation security network, extending to the anti-doping field, and jointly maintain global security. This collaboration aims to create a safer and more secure air cargo environment worldwide.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos Mercator Program Advances Palestinian Customs Modernization

Wcos Mercator Program Advances Palestinian Customs Modernization

The World Customs Organization (WCO) positively assessed Palestine's Mercator Program, acknowledging its effectiveness in trade facilitation. The report highlighted the importance of strategic planning, public-private partnerships, and electronic connectivity, laying the groundwork for future tailored support. International cooperation contributes to Palestine's customs modernization, offering a valuable model for other developing countries. The assessment underscores the program's success and provides insights for further improvements and replication in similar contexts, emphasizing the role of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable trade facilitation outcomes.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Kenya Boost Trade Facilitation at WTO Conference

WCO Kenya Boost Trade Facilitation at WTO Conference

During the 10th WTO Ministerial Conference, the WCO and KRA jointly hosted a side event to discuss the implementation experiences and challenges of trade facilitation measures. The meeting highlighted the importance of political will, inter-agency collaboration, public-private partnerships, international cooperation, and standardized regulations, aiming to promote global trade development. The discussions focused on practical solutions and strategies to overcome obstacles in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, emphasizing the need for a collaborative and holistic approach to achieve its objectives.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Peru Boosts Customs Oversight with Global Partnerships

Peru Boosts Customs Oversight with Global Partnerships

Peru hosted a virtual forum to discuss risk management in customs valuation. Participating countries shared their experiences, highlighting best practices and challenges. The Peruvian Customs Service outlined plans to strengthen value verification processes and deepen public-private partnerships to improve compliance and combat fraud. The forum emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing valuation-related risks and ensuring fair trade practices. The discussions focused on leveraging technology and data analysis to enhance risk assessment and improve the efficiency of customs operations.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Forum Advances Global Trade Efficiency and Security

WCO Forum Advances Global Trade Efficiency and Security

The 4th WCO Technology and Innovation Forum was held in Argentina, focusing on the role of technology in building efficient, secure, transparent, and resilient global supply chains. Participants shared best practices and discussed future borders, technology-enabled decision-making, and transparency in cross-border transactions. The forum emphasized that public-private partnerships and technological innovation are crucial for driving customs modernization. Key discussions revolved around leveraging technology to enhance security, streamline processes, and foster greater collaboration among stakeholders to facilitate legitimate trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Issues Trade Recovery Guidance Amid Global Disruptions

WCO Issues Trade Recovery Guidance Amid Global Disruptions

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the World Customs Organization's (WCO) 'Trade Recovery Guidelines,' designed to assist national customs administrations in swiftly and efficiently restoring international cargo movement following trade disruptions. It elaborates on the concept of trade recovery, the significance of the SAFE Framework, and the guidelines' three pillars: Action Plan, Customs Actions, and Communication. The article emphasizes the crucial role of international cooperation and public-private partnerships in effectively addressing trade disruptions and ensuring supply chain resilience.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Highspeed Rail Advances With Publicprivate Partnerships

US Highspeed Rail Advances With Publicprivate Partnerships

The US Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is adjusting its high-speed rail “Stakeholder Agreement” to balance the interests of state transportation departments, Class I railroads, and the public. The new agreement removes harsh penalties for freight railroads and emphasizes cooperation and flexibility. This aims to achieve sustainable development of high-speed rail projects and promote economic growth by fostering a more collaborative environment. The adjustment seeks to encourage participation and ensure the long-term viability of high-speed rail initiatives across the nation.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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