Global Customs Adopt Paperless Systems to Boost Trade Efficiency

Global Customs Adopt Paperless Systems to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization participated in the Conference of Heads of Customs Administrations of French-speaking countries, focusing on paperless customs clearance, single windows, and customs supervision. The meeting emphasized the importance of technology-driven solutions and international cooperation. Discussions centered on leveraging French language training to strengthen connections between customs administrations. The conference also looked ahead to building a more efficient, secure, and convenient global trade system, highlighting the role of collaboration and innovation in achieving these goals.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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North Macedonia Boosts Customs with WCO Tariff Training

North Macedonia Boosts Customs with WCO Tariff Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a national workshop on tariff classification in the Republic of North Macedonia. The workshop aimed to enhance the country's customs capacity in classifying goods such as dairy products, food supplements, and high-tech equipment. Sponsored by the German Customs Cooperation Fund, WCO experts provided theoretical and practical guidance, introducing relevant WCO tools and resources. This initiative supports the modernization of customs administration in North Macedonia, ensuring accurate tariff classification and efficient trade facilitation.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and IDB Partner to Enhance Latin American Trade

WCO and IDB Partner to Enhance Latin American Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) participated in a policy dialogue with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), sharing trade facilitation experiences to support trade development in Latin America. Key initiatives highlighted included the Single Window, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and the Mercator Program. The WCO emphasized the importance of international cooperation in promoting global trade. The dialogue aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange to enhance trade efficiency and security within the Latin American region and beyond.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Program Boosts Botswana Tax Authoritys Modernization Efforts

WCO Program Boosts Botswana Tax Authoritys Modernization Efforts

The WCO conducted a leadership workshop in Botswana to enhance the management capabilities of the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS), promote tax modernization, and contribute to economic development. The workshop focused on strengthening leadership skills within the BURS to effectively implement modern tax administration practices. This initiative aims to improve revenue collection and ultimately support Botswana's economic growth. Funding for the workshop was provided by Finland, highlighting international cooperation in supporting tax reform and capacity building in developing countries.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade System Marks 30 Years As Harmonized Standard

Global Trade System Marks 30 Years As Harmonized Standard

The Harmonized System (HS) serves as a universal language for global trade, playing an irreplaceable role in facilitating international trade, customs management, and economic development. This paper reviews the HS's development over the past three decades, analyzes its significant functions and challenges, and proposes suggestions such as strengthening international cooperation, promoting technological innovation, and improving classification standards. The aim is to further enhance the HS's effectiveness and adaptability, contributing more significantly to the prosperity and development of global trade.

01/03/2018 Customs Knowledge
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Montenegro Customs Boosts Risk Management Via WCO Workshop

Montenegro Customs Boosts Risk Management Via WCO Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a risk management workshop for Montenegro Customs to enhance its risk assessment and selectivity capabilities. Through training, Montenegro Customs officials mastered advanced risk assessment methods and tools, strengthened risk management awareness, and laid a solid foundation for future customs operations. This event promoted information exchange and cooperation, promoted WCO risk management tools, and helped Montenegro Customs establish a sound risk management system. The workshop aimed to improve efficiency and effectiveness in border control.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Zimbabwes Trade Facilitation with Better Project Management

WCO Enhances Zimbabwes Trade Facilitation with Better Project Management

WCO training helps Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) enhance its project management capabilities to better implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. ZIMRA places great importance on project governance and looks forward to continued cooperation with the WCO. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs procedures, contributing to smoother trade flows and economic growth in Zimbabwe. By strengthening project management skills, ZIMRA can effectively manage and implement various trade facilitation initiatives, ultimately benefiting businesses and the overall economy.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Northwest Seaport Alliance Reports Surge in International Cargo

Northwest Seaport Alliance Reports Surge in International Cargo

The Northwest Seaport Alliance saw a 22% year-over-year increase in international cargo volume in September, its first growth in nearly 19 months, driven by stable vessel arrivals, rail transport, and optimized schedules. Auto volumes also experienced significant growth. Despite challenges like global economic downturn risks and weak demand, the port needs to diversify markets, improve service quality, and strengthen cooperation. Businesses should closely monitor market trends, optimize supply chains, and proactively respond to evolving conditions.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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UN Unveils Data Strategy to Boost Sustainable Development

UN Unveils Data Strategy to Boost Sustainable Development

The United Nations Data Strategy aims to build a “UN-wide” data ecosystem, empowering decision-making and supporting sustainable development by enhancing data analysis and management capabilities. The strategy emphasizes talent development, partnerships, data governance, and technology application. It actively promotes data sharing and international cooperation to address the challenges of the data age. The goal is to leverage data effectively to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and improve the overall effectiveness of the UN's work.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Advocates Green Customs to Promote Sustainable Trade

WCO Advocates Green Customs to Promote Sustainable Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held its first symposium focusing on “Green Customs,” exploring the role of the Harmonized System (HS) in supporting environmentally sustainable trade. The meeting brought together representatives to propose more feasible “green” solutions for the 2027 and subsequent HS versions. It emphasized the importance of international cooperation and innovation in promoting sustainable development within global trade practices. The symposium aimed to identify concrete steps for integrating environmental considerations into the HS nomenclature.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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