Vanuatu Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Study

Vanuatu Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for the Vanuatu Customs and Inland Revenue Department to enhance customs efficiency and promote trade facilitation. The workshop covered TRS methodology, software applications, and action plan development. Through the TRS, Vanuatu aims to reduce cargo release times, improve the business environment, and fulfill its obligations under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative is expected to streamline customs procedures and contribute to economic growth by reducing delays and costs associated with international trade.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Revised Kyoto Convention Aims to Simplify Global Trade

Revised Kyoto Convention Aims to Simplify Global Trade

The revised Kyoto Convention by the World Customs Organization is undergoing comprehensive revision to simplify and harmonize customs procedures, promoting international trade facilitation. The 29th Management Committee meeting discussed 50 potential draft texts related to specific annexes, covering key areas such as goods handling, postal traffic, and relief consignments. Businesses should closely monitor the revision progress, assess potential impacts, and actively participate in providing feedback to adapt to the new trade environment. This will ensure compliance and optimize trade operations under the updated regulations.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
China Eyes Service Export Growth Amid Trilliondollar Trade Opportunity

China Eyes Service Export Growth Amid Trilliondollar Trade Opportunity

China's service trade is entering a golden age with significant export growth potential. By deepening institutional opening-up and focusing on new drivers like digital trade, green services, and "AI + Services", while optimizing the structure of traditional and high-end services and building a collaborative ecosystem, China is poised to achieve leapfrog development in service trade. This will contribute Eastern wisdom to the global economy. The key is to foster innovation and create a more favorable environment for international cooperation in the service sector.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Guatemala Strengthens Customs Oversight for Tax Reform

Guatemala Strengthens Customs Oversight for Tax Reform

The Superintendency of Tax Administration of Guatemala, with SECO-WCO support, held a leadership and management development workshop for senior managers. The aim was to enhance the skills of customs managers, promote the modernization of the customs system, facilitate trade, increase tax revenue, and improve international competitiveness. The WCO's Leadership and Management Development Programme makes a significant contribution to the development of customs systems worldwide. The workshop emphasized strategic thinking and effective implementation of customs reforms, ultimately fostering a more efficient and transparent trade environment.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Barbados Advances Customs Modernization with WCO Support

Barbados Advances Customs Modernization with WCO Support

The WCO assisted Barbados Customs with its reform efforts, leading to improved efficiency, revenue collection, and trade facilitation. A key focus was on human resource management, with positive employee engagement. This initiative aimed to modernize customs operations and enhance the overall effectiveness of the Barbados Customs administration. The reform encompassed various aspects, including streamlined procedures, updated technology, and enhanced training programs for customs officers. Ultimately, the goal was to create a more efficient and transparent customs environment, benefiting both the government and the business community.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Global Customs Agencies Tackle Ocean Plastic Pollution

Global Customs Agencies Tackle Ocean Plastic Pollution

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively participates in UN World Oceans Day, highlighting customs' crucial role in marine environment protection. Through enforcing the Basel Convention, upgrading trade tools, and implementing the Asia Pacific Plastic Waste Project, customs are committed to combating illegal plastic waste trade and protecting marine ecosystems. The WCO calls for global collaboration, urging everyone to contribute, even in small ways, to safeguard our blue planet. This includes preventing plastic waste from entering waterways and promoting responsible consumption habits to reduce overall plastic pollution.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Bolivia Strengthens Trade Program with Regional Expertise

Bolivia Strengthens Trade Program with Regional Expertise

Bolivia is drawing on the AEO experiences of Colombia, Mexico, and Uruguay to optimize its own AEO program. This aims to enhance trade facilitation, increase the number of AEO-certified companies, and ultimately promote economic development. By learning from successful implementations in other countries, Bolivia seeks to streamline its customs processes and improve the competitiveness of its businesses in the global market. The focus is on creating a more efficient and secure trading environment through strengthened customs cooperation and the wider adoption of AEO standards.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Bolivia Customs Implements Stress Management Program

Bolivia Customs Implements Stress Management Program

The Global Trade Facilitation Program (GTFP) provided stress management and resilience training to Bolivian customs officers. Through a blended online and offline approach, the training helped officers identify sources of stress, master stress management tools, and enhance emotional intelligence, ultimately achieving work-life balance. The project aimed to improve the individual well-being and job satisfaction of customs personnel, as well as enhance the overall effectiveness and service quality of the customs organization. This capacity building initiative fosters a healthier and more productive work environment.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Backs Philippine Customs in Trade Reform Push

WCO Backs Philippine Customs in Trade Reform Push

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Philippines to enhance trade facilitation. Through capacity building, field missions, and high-level meetings, the WCO is promoting the implementation of Time Release Study (TRS) and the Quick Release Guidelines. The cooperation also deepens in areas like risk management, integrity building, and other human resource management aspects. The initiatives aim to inject new vitality into the Philippine economy by streamlining customs procedures and fostering a more efficient and transparent trading environment.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Uzbekistan Streamlines Customs to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Uzbekistan Streamlines Customs to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Uzbekistan hosted a workshop on customs strategic planning to enhance management capabilities and promote trade facilitation. The workshop aimed to improve customs efficiency and effectiveness through strategic planning and performance evaluation. The Global Trade Facilitation program provided support for the event. The initiative underscores Uzbekistan's commitment to streamlining customs procedures, reducing trade barriers, and fostering a more competitive business environment. Ultimately, this leads to increased trade volume and economic growth. The focus on strategic planning and performance evaluation ensures sustainable improvements in customs administration.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More