WCO Introduces Certification for Postclearance Audits in Francophone Africa

WCO Introduces Certification for Postclearance Audits in Francophone Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a French-speaking Customs Post Clearance Audit (PCA) Technical and Operational Advisor Certification Program to develop a highly qualified team of experts and enhance PCA capabilities in French-speaking regions. The inaugural seminar was successfully held at WCO headquarters. Through rigorous selection and a combination of theoretical and practical training, this program lays the foundation for customs capacity building in the French-speaking area. The initiative aims to strengthen post-clearance controls and improve overall customs efficiency within the region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Belgium WCO Train Francophone Africa to Boost Customs Capacity

Belgium WCO Train Francophone Africa to Boost Customs Capacity

The Belgian Customs Academy provides training for customs officers from Francophone African countries, covering customs management, trade facilitation, and international cooperation. Participants visited the WCO headquarters to gain a deeper understanding of international customs cooperation mechanisms. This training aims to improve customs management in Africa, promote regional trade development, and explore future opportunities for deepening international cooperation to continuously enhance African customs capabilities. The program emphasizes practical skills and knowledge transfer to foster efficient and effective customs operations across the region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos MADAO Project Enhances Customs Management in West Africa

Wcos MADAO Project Enhances Customs Management in West Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the West Africa Customs Modernization Project (MADAO) to enhance strategic management capabilities. Following regional training, national-level support will be provided to establish strategic systems. This initiative aims to improve customs efficiency and effectiveness across West Africa by strengthening their strategic planning and management processes. The MADAO project focuses on building sustainable customs capacity through training and the development of robust strategic frameworks, ultimately contributing to regional economic growth and security.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Capacity in West and Central Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Capacity in West and Central Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Côte d'Ivoire Customs in upgrading its human resources management system by introducing competency-based management and project cycle management methodologies. Through expert training, tool development, and action plan formulation, the initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of customs officials. This capacity building effort lays the foundation for customs modernization and serves as a valuable reference for other customs administrations. The project focuses on improving efficiency and effectiveness within the Ivorian customs service by equipping personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Growth Surges in Southeast Asia Latin America Africa

Ecommerce Growth Surges in Southeast Asia Latin America Africa

This paper focuses on three emerging cross-border e-commerce markets: Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa, analyzing their development potential and opportunities. Southeast Asia's e-commerce is growing rapidly, the Latin American market is poised for growth, and Africa's e-commerce potential is enormous. Sellers need to deeply understand the local markets and develop differentiated strategies to succeed in these emerging markets. Understanding local consumer behavior, adapting to logistical challenges, and offering relevant products are key to unlocking the potential of these blue ocean markets.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West Africa Customs Names Sangho Director to Lead Modernization

West Africa Customs Names Sangho Director to Lead Modernization

Abdel Kader SANGHO has been appointed as the new Director for the West and Central Africa Customs region. This appointment aims to strengthen regional customs modernization, enhance risk management capabilities, and promote regional trade facilitation. The goal is to deepen international cooperation to address global trade challenges and foster regional economic prosperity and sustainable development. The meeting also confirmed the Regional Finance and Audit Committee, launched the annual budget, and announced the theme for International Customs Day 2021.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West and Central Africa Customs Struggle With Modernization Delays

West and Central Africa Customs Struggle With Modernization Delays

The annual meeting of the West and Central Africa Customs Capacity Building Liaison Office focused on four key challenges: lack of leadership, outdated human resource management, unclear ownership of outsourced responsibilities, and difficulties in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Participants shared experiences and sought greater support from the WCO, aiming to overcome these bottlenecks and promote the modernization and transformation of customs administrations in the region. The goal is to improve efficiency, transparency, and compliance with international standards.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Pioneers Customs Modernization in West Africa

Gambia Revenue Authority Pioneers Customs Modernization in West Africa

Supported by the Swedish-funded WACAM project, The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) is pioneering the WCO-promoted competency-based HRM model in West and Central Africa. By reviewing key HRM tools and strengthening institutional capacity, GRA aims to become a regional benchmark, leading industry development and providing valuable experience and lessons for other customs agencies. This initiative represents a significant step towards modernized customs administration and enhanced talent management within the region, potentially setting a new standard for customs operations.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Quzhou Industry Belt Expands to Africa with Agritech Focus

Quzhou Industry Belt Expands to Africa with Agritech Focus

This paper analyzes the suitability of industries like agricultural technology and outdoor products from Quzhou, Zhejiang, for the African market. It proposes a regional market strategy and risk management suggestions, emphasizing the use of B2B e-commerce platforms to optimize distribution channels. The study recommends a phased approach to entering the African market, aiming for mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. The analysis focuses on the specific characteristics of Quzhou's industrial belt and its potential for growth in the diverse African landscape.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Africa Enhances Customs Oversight with Audit Training Completion

East Africa Enhances Customs Oversight with Audit Training Completion

The WCO and JICA's joint "Master Trainer Programme" successfully concluded in East Africa, training 18 post-clearance audit experts and developing regional training materials. This initiative aims to enhance customs audit capabilities in East Africa, facilitating trade, combating smuggling, and safeguarding economic security. The project is expected to inject new momentum into regional development by strengthening customs administration and promoting efficient trade practices within the East African Community.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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