Serbian Delegation Studies Uzbekistans Customs Reforms

Serbian Delegation Studies Uzbekistans Customs Reforms

A Serbian Customs delegation visited Uzbekistan to learn about its experiences in digitalization, human resources, and trade facilitation. The visit highlighted Uzbekistan's progress in these areas, supported by projects from the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). The Serbian delegation aimed to gain insights and best practices to inform their own customs reform efforts, focusing on leveraging technology and data to improve efficiency and streamline trade processes. The exchange fostered collaboration and knowledge sharing between the two customs administrations.

Cambodia Boosts Customs Valuation Skills with WCO Japan Aid

Cambodia Boosts Customs Valuation Skills with WCO Japan Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported a customs valuation workshop in Cambodia to enhance the valuation capabilities of officers from the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE). The workshop covered the WTO Valuation Agreement, key technical issues, and valuation control measures, sharing case studies and experiences. Through this workshop, Cambodian Customs is expected to improve revenue collection, promote trade facilitation, and inject new vitality into the national economic development. The focus was on practical application and knowledge transfer to improve valuation accuracy and efficiency.

Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked DIAN Reform

Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked DIAN Reform

The WCO supported the Colombian National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) in its strategic planning efforts. Workshops were conducted to enhance the strategic development capabilities of DIAN officials. Technical assistance was provided in areas such as risk management and post-clearance audit. The aim was to improve the efficiency and transparency of Colombian customs, promote economic growth, and build a modern customs system. This initiative strengthens DIAN's capacity to effectively manage trade and contribute to Colombia's economic development by streamlining customs procedures and ensuring compliance.

Uzbekistan Enhances Trade Via WTO Pact with SECOWCO Backing

Uzbekistan Enhances Trade Via WTO Pact with SECOWCO Backing

The SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme continues to support Uzbekistan in implementing the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through workshops and other initiatives, the program focuses on key areas such as advance rulings, risk management, and cooperation between border agencies. Uzbekistan is actively responding, dedicating efforts to process optimization and capacity building to improve trade efficiency and integrate into the global economy. The country aims to streamline procedures and enhance its capabilities to facilitate smoother and faster trade flows, ultimately boosting its economic competitiveness.

EUWCO Project Boosts African Customs Modernization Trade

EUWCO Project Boosts African Customs Modernization Trade

The EU-WCO cooperation project promotes customs modernization in Africa by optimizing the Harmonized System and rules of origin, and strengthening capacity building. This creates a more efficient trade environment, fostering intra-African trade and regional economic integration. The project has yielded significant results and will continue to support African customs development, contributing to the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Its focus on streamlining procedures and enhancing skills will be crucial for unlocking Africa's trade potential and fostering sustainable economic growth across the continent.

WCO Standards Accelerate Global Trade Digitalization

WCO Standards Accelerate Global Trade Digitalization

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the crucial role of data and technology in driving the global digital transformation of trade at the ICC Future Trade Forum, introducing relevant WCO initiatives. He advocated for the adoption of the WCO Data Model to promote interoperability of trade standards and explored collaboration opportunities with Singapore Customs, the International Chamber of Commerce, and APEC. The aim is to enhance trade efficiency, security, and inclusivity through standardized data and technological advancements in customs procedures and international trade.

African Customs Labs Adopt Asiapacific Methods to Boost Trade

African Customs Labs Adopt Asiapacific Methods to Boost Trade

African customs laboratory leaders visited the Asia-Pacific region to learn from best practices and enhance their capabilities. Through laboratory visits and experience sharing, the African representatives gained in-depth understanding of the operational models, technological applications, and management methods of regional customs laboratories in the Asia-Pacific. This activity promoted capacity building for African customs laboratories and laid the foundation for regional cooperation, contributing to African trade development and economic prosperity. The visit focused on practical knowledge transfer and establishing future collaborative efforts.

Botswana Overhauls Tax Agency for Improved Efficiency

Botswana Overhauls Tax Agency for Improved Efficiency

The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS), in collaboration with the WCO, implemented a competency-based human resource management program. This initiative aimed to enhance organizational performance, improve employee engagement, and strengthen border management. The program focused on identifying and developing the necessary skills and knowledge for BURS staff to effectively carry out their duties, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and effective tax administration system in Botswana. The partnership with WCO provided valuable expertise and support in the design and implementation of the competency model.

Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

In 2017, Lao Customs officers participated in a training program on airport compliance and enforcement, supported by the World Customs Organization and sponsored by the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund. The training aimed to enhance Lao Customs' capabilities in passenger risk management. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, participants mastered key skills such as risk assessment, risk profiling, and target selection. They also learned practical methods including verbal and non-verbal risk assessment and questioning techniques. This initiative contributes to the modernization of Lao Customs.

IATA Launches OPS Portal to Improve Aviation Ground Safety

IATA Launches OPS Portal to Improve Aviation Ground Safety

The IATA Operations Portal (OPS Portal) is an online platform designed for airlines and ground service providers. It centralizes access to industry standards and facilitates information exchange, aiming to enhance standardization and safety in aviation ground operations. The portal offers features such as standards lookup, compliance assessment, and information sharing. It helps improve efficiency, reduce costs, and supports the continuous development of industry standards. By providing a single point of access to critical information, the OPS Portal streamlines operations and promotes best practices within the aviation industry.