Gambia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

Gambia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to enhance trade facilitation. Through workshops and technical assistance, the WCO helped Gambia identify bottlenecks in cargo clearance, optimize customs procedures, and align with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The ultimate goal is to improve the business environment and promote sustainable economic development in Gambia. The TRS aims to streamline processes and reduce the time and cost associated with importing and exporting goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mexico Hong Kong Expand Trade with AEO Program Recognition

Mexico Hong Kong Expand Trade with AEO Program Recognition

Mexico and Hong Kong have signed an Action Plan for Mutual Recognition of Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs), aiming to streamline cross-border trade processes, improve customs clearance efficiency, and reduce business risks. Through OEA certification, companies can enjoy benefits such as priority customs clearance and reduced inspection rates, enhancing their global competitiveness. This initiative sets an example for other countries, promoting global trade facilitation. The agreement is expected to foster stronger economic ties and create new opportunities for businesses in both regions.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Seychelles Customs Officials Enhance Valuation Skills in WCO Training

Seychelles Customs Officials Enhance Valuation Skills in WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a customs valuation training in Seychelles to enhance the practical skills of the country's customs officers. The training focused on the core principles of the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation, combining theoretical knowledge with practical exercises. This initiative is part of the WCO's capacity building project, aimed at assisting developing countries in improving customs administration, promoting trade facilitation, and increasing revenue collection. Accurate customs valuation is crucial for ensuring revenue integrity and maintaining fair trade practices.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guatemala Boosts Trade Compliance with Customs Valuation Training

Guatemala Boosts Trade Compliance with Customs Valuation Training

The Guatemala National Workshop on Customs Valuation aims to improve customs valuation practices and promote trade compliance and efficiency. The workshop covers topics such as the interpretation of the WTO Valuation Agreement, Guatemalan customs regulations, practical valuation operations, risk management, and dispute resolution. Through knowledge sharing and capacity building, it helps Guatemala integrate into the global trading system. The workshop seeks to strengthen Guatemala's ability to accurately value goods, facilitate legitimate trade, and prevent revenue loss, contributing to its economic development.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Trade and Customs Modernization in Namibia

WCO Enhances Trade and Customs Modernization in Namibia

At the request of Namibian Customs, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment to support the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through in-depth research and tailored recommendations, the WCO aims to help Namibian Customs streamline processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen cooperation with other development partners. The ultimate goal is to achieve customs modernization and promote economic growth in Namibia. This initiative focuses on identifying areas for improvement and providing practical guidance for enhancing trade facilitation measures.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Members Show Uneven Progress on Trade Facilitation Deal

WTO Members Show Uneven Progress on Trade Facilitation Deal

A joint proposal by Cuba, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mauritius emphasizes that the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) should consider the different levels of development among members. It suggests that developed countries immediately implement all provisions, while developing and least developed countries can postpone implementation based on their specific circumstances. This approach aims to ensure fairness and efficiency, promote global trade development, and build a more inclusive trading system. Recognizing varying capacities is crucial for successful and equitable TFA implementation.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Team Up to Enhance African Trade Facilitation

WCO JICA Team Up to Enhance African Trade Facilitation

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are strengthening their collaboration to enhance trade facilitation in Africa. This initiative focuses on improving Africa's competitiveness in global value chains through the development of One-Stop Border Posts, capacity building, and the optimization of trade corridors. The WCO Secretary General also lectured scholarship students on strategic priorities, emphasizing information exchange, agreement implementation, and e-commerce regulation. These efforts aim to support sustainable economic development across the African continent.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Study

Cape Verde Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, supported Cape Verde Customs in preparing its first Time Release Study (TRS) to improve clearance efficiency and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. A workshop facilitated collaboration between customs officials and stakeholders, leading to the development of an action plan. This initiative not only enhances trade facilitation in Cape Verde but also provides a valuable reference for other developing countries. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks and streamline processes for faster goods release.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Boosts Trade with Enhanced Customs Audits

Lesotho Boosts Trade with Enhanced Customs Audits

A high-level virtual workshop on Post-Clearance Audit was successfully conducted for the Lesotho Revenue Authority under the joint framework of HMRC, WCO, and UNCTAD. The workshop aimed to support developing countries in effectively implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. It enhanced the professional skills of Lesotho Revenue Authority officials and fostered cooperation between customs and businesses, contributing to Lesotho's economic development. The training focused on modern PCA techniques and risk management strategies to optimize revenue collection and improve trade compliance.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Japans Ports Drive East Asian Trade Growth

Japans Ports Drive East Asian Trade Growth

This article provides an in-depth overview of Japan's major ports, such as Naha Port, Sakai-Senboku Port, and Shimizu Port, exploring their significant roles in East Asian and global trade. The annual throughput and regional connections of each port highlight their key contributions to trade, logistics, and cultural exchange.

08/08/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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