The WCO and JICA are conducting a Customs Risk Management Master Trainer Program (MTP) in the Central Asia and Caucasus region to enhance regional self-training capabilities. The second phase of the activity was held in Kazakhstan, focusing on lecturing skills and experience sharing. This initiative aims to strengthen customs risk management practices and promote sustainable training expertise within the region.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, is providing human resource modernization support to the Customs administrations of Senegal and Gabon. This includes refining tools such as job catalogs and competency frameworks, as well as identifying change management actions. Both countries plan to validate the tools and launch pilot programs in early 2016. The project aims to improve the management efficiency of Customs in both countries and serve as a model for the West and Central African regions.
The WCO and JICA collaborated to enhance customs risk management capabilities in the Central Asia and Caucasus region. A training program was held in Georgia to develop Master Trainers, aiming to ensure the smooth operation of the 'Middle Corridor'. This initiative focuses on strengthening regional customs expertise and facilitating efficient trade flows along this crucial trade route. The program supports improved risk assessment and management practices within customs administrations, contributing to secure and efficient border procedures.
The WCO is assisting Barbados Customs with reforms to enhance human resource management and build a high-performing customs administration that serves national development. This initiative focuses on modernizing customs practices and strengthening the skills and capabilities of customs officers. Ultimately, the goal is to create a more efficient and effective customs service that contributes significantly to Barbados' economic growth and security. The project aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce trade costs, and enhance border security through targeted training and process improvements.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on Rules of Origin (RoO) for the AfCFTA in Cameroon, aiming to enhance the understanding and application of these rules by Cameroonian Customs and the private sector. The workshop covered principles of rule-making, specific provisions, and operational issues. It seeks to promote trade development between Cameroon and other African countries, contributing to African economic integration. The initiative underscores the importance of RoO in facilitating trade and ensuring the benefits of the AfCFTA are realized effectively.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Belgian Customs School (BCS) are deepening their collaboration to provide tailored training for customs officials from French-speaking African countries. This includes visits to the WCO headquarters and upgraded BCS courses, aiming to enhance their professional capabilities. This initiative intends to better serve African economic development and provide a model for global customs cooperation. The partnership underscores the commitment to strengthening customs administrations in Africa and fostering a more efficient and effective global trade environment.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), provided remote technical assistance to the State Customs Committee (SCC) of Uzbekistan, focusing on enhancing Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities. Through theoretical reviews, practical exercises, and case studies, the project significantly improved the auditing skills of Uzbek customs officers and provided recommendations for developing specific customs procedures. This initiative supports Uzbekistan's efforts to improve its trade facilitation level.
WCO, in collaboration with JICA and Japan Customs, is supporting Pacific Island Countries in building a pool of customs experts through training programs. This initiative aims to enhance their customs enforcement capabilities and promote trade facilitation. The project focuses on strengthening regional cooperation and improving customs administration in the Pacific region, ultimately contributing to economic growth and security.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a data analysis lecture for WCO Scholarship Program students at Sungkyunkwan University in South Korea. The lecture covered data strategy implementation, customs data analysis applications, and geospatial intelligence. Through interactive discussions, WCO representatives answered student questions, helping to enhance customs data analysis capabilities and promote global trade security and facilitation. The initiative aims to equip participants with the skills necessary to leverage data for improved customs operations and decision-making within their respective administrations.
The e-commerce peak season is approaching, with package volumes expected to reach new highs. UPS and USPS predict significant increases. To address these challenges, logistics companies are actively recruiting, but some have also raised delivery fees. Last-mile delivery faces immense pressure, driving industry trends towards technological innovation and diversification. Consumers and retailers need to work together to navigate this busy shopping season.
