Zambia Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked AEO Program

Zambia Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked AEO Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in establishing an internationally compliant Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. This initiative aims to enhance trade facilitation, strengthen supply chain security, and ultimately achieve mutual recognition agreements with neighboring countries, promoting regional trade development. The support involves capacity building and study visits. This collaboration is part of the UK's HMRC's 'Accelerating Trade Facilitation' program, designed to assist Zambia in meeting international standards and improving its overall trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Guide Aids Customs in Pandemic Trade Continuity

WCO Guide Aids Customs in Pandemic Trade Continuity

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 'Communication Guidelines in Times of Crisis' to assist member customs administrations in addressing communication challenges posed by the pandemic and maintaining the stability of global supply chains. The guidelines cover communication objectives, audiences, channels, and strategies, emphasizing timeliness, accuracy, and transparency. The WCO encourages members to share best practices to collectively combat the pandemic and build a safer and more efficient global trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Datadriven Customs Portal to Modernize Trade

WCO Launches Datadriven Customs Portal to Modernize Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO)'s Smart Customs Project is fostering global customs cooperation and innovation through an agilely developed community portal. This portal serves as a project information hub, a secure collaboration space, and a platform for exchanging experiences. It gathers technical application guidelines and research findings to help customs administrations address challenges and promote trade facilitation. The active participation of national contact points is crucial for the project's success. The portal aims to be a central point for accessing resources and engaging with the Smart Customs initiative.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Launches Etransit System to Enhance Trade

West Africa Launches Etransit System to Enhance Trade

With the support of the World Customs Organization, five West African countries have launched an electronic transit information project. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of regional trade and facilitate economic integration within the region. By streamlining customs procedures and enhancing data exchange, the project seeks to reduce transit times and lower trade costs, ultimately boosting economic growth and strengthening regional partnerships. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of these nations to fostering a more integrated and prosperous West African trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and WTO Boost Trade Facilitation Leadership Globally

WCO and WTO Boost Trade Facilitation Leadership Globally

The World Customs Organization (WCO) collaborates closely with the World Trade Organization (WTO) to empower chairs of national trade facilitation committees through initiatives like advanced courses. This partnership aims to enhance their understanding and implementation capabilities regarding the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. The collaboration focuses on simplifying customs procedures, improving border management efficiency, and promoting transparency and sustainable development in global trade. Ultimately, this joint effort contributes to global economic growth by fostering a more streamlined and efficient international trading system.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Stresses Trade Facilitation to Boost Global Commerce

WTO Stresses Trade Facilitation to Boost Global Commerce

During the 10th WTO Ministerial Conference, the World Customs Organization and the Kenya Revenue Authority co-hosted a side event focusing on trade facilitation. The event highlighted the importance of coordinated border management, Authorized Economic Operator programs, Time Release Studies, and National Trade Facilitation Committees. It aimed to promote the participation of SMEs and women in global value chains. Participants called for collaborative efforts to overcome challenges and continuously advance trade facilitation, ultimately fostering global trade prosperity. This includes simplifying procedures and harmonizing standards to reduce costs and delays for businesses.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Boosts Trade Compliance with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

Moldova Boosts Trade Compliance with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Customs Valuation Workshop in Moldova, aiming to enhance the understanding and application of the WTO Valuation Agreement among Moldovan customs officials. The workshop focused on strengthening the role of valuation databases in risk assessment, standardizing valuation procedures, and addressing challenging issues such as the valuation of second-hand goods, the determination of assistance costs, and license fees. This initiative contributes to trade facilitation and economic development by improving customs valuation practices in Moldova.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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2017 HS Code Revisions Impact Global Trade Practices

2017 HS Code Revisions Impact Global Trade Practices

The World Customs Organization (WCO) implemented its fifth major revision to the Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature and Coding system in 2017. This revision includes 233 sets of amendments spanning key sectors such as agriculture, chemicals, timber, textiles, base metals, machinery, and transportation. The aim of this revision is to enhance the accuracy and applicability of HS codes, thereby having a profound impact on global trade. These changes are crucial for businesses involved in international trade to ensure compliance and accurate classification of goods.

02/03/2026 HS Code Query
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Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran and Japan signed a Mutual Assistance and Cooperation Agreement on Customs Matters, aiming to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the customs area. The agreement facilitates information sharing, joint research, and administrative assistance. Based on the World Customs Organization's Model Agreement, it will promote trade growth, enhance trade security, and improve the investment climate. This agreement sets a precedent for global customs cooperation, fostering a more secure and efficient international trade environment between the two nations. It is expected to significantly boost economic ties and streamline customs procedures.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos 2021 SAFE Framework Enhances Global Trade Security

Wcos 2021 SAFE Framework Enhances Global Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework 2021 has been officially released, adding a core element of cooperation between customs and other government agencies, and revising content such as smart security devices and mutual recognition arrangements. It aims to enhance supply chain security, efficiency, and transparency, reduce trade costs, and promote global trade facilitation and sustainable development. The updated framework emphasizes collaboration and technology to improve the overall security and flow of goods across international borders.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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