Samoa Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Workshop

Samoa Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Workshop

The World Customs Organization successfully held a TRS (Time Release Study) workshop in Samoa, supporting the country in optimizing customs procedures and improving trade efficiency. The workshop brought together representatives from various sectors to discuss the TRS methodology in depth and develop a national action plan. This initiative will promote trade facilitation in Samoa, enhance its international competitiveness, and provide a reference for other developing countries. The implementation of TRS aims to streamline processes and reduce clearance times, ultimately benefiting Samoa's economy.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Adopts Wcos AEO Program to Strengthen Trade Security

Bahamas Adopts Wcos AEO Program to Strengthen Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Bahamas Customs in implementing the AEO Program, aiming to enhance trade security and facilitation. Through training, regulatory drafting, and pilot projects, the Bahamas is gradually establishing an AEO system compliant with international standards. This initiative seeks to improve international competitiveness, promote economic development, and safeguard national security. The program's implementation is significant for the Bahamas and offers valuable lessons for other Caribbean nations. It represents a crucial step towards a more secure and efficient trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

The 28th SAFE Working Group meeting focused on the review and implementation monitoring of the SAFE Framework, emphasizing customs-private sector cooperation and optimizing questionnaires. Key topics included data strategy, green customs initiatives, promotion of AEO validation courses, revision of work plans, and extension of the review cycle. Enhanced customs cooperation with aviation and port sectors was also highlighted. The meeting injected new momentum into global trade security cooperation, foreshadowing a future of safer, more efficient, and sustainable global trade systems.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Supports Turkmenistans AEO Program to Enhance Trade

WCO Supports Turkmenistans AEO Program to Enhance Trade

The WCO supports Turkmenistan in implementing its AEO program, enhancing trade facilitation and supply chain security. The workshop covered AEO implementation, validation, risk management, and other key aspects. This initiative aims to promote economic growth by streamlining customs procedures and fostering international trade partnerships. The focus was on practical application and knowledge sharing to ensure the successful adoption of AEO standards within Turkmenistan's customs framework. Ultimately, this collaboration seeks to create a more efficient and secure trading environment for all stakeholders.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Advances Customs Reform with SECOWCO Aid Targets 2026 TRS

Moldova Advances Customs Reform with SECOWCO Aid Targets 2026 TRS

Moldova, with the support of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, held a virtual Time Release Study (TRS) workshop to assess clearance times and develop a national implementation roadmap. The goal is to complete the TRS report by January 2026, covering import and export processes, and to make it available to all stakeholders. The WCO pledged continued technical support to help Moldova improve trade facilitation and promote economic development. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to streamline border procedures.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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African Customs Agencies Boost Trade and Capacity Efforts

African Customs Agencies Boost Trade and Capacity Efforts

The 19th meeting of the Customs Management Council of the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) region focused on trade facilitation and capacity building. Emphasis was placed on the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Discussions covered regional cooperation, financial management, and the appointment of the WCO Director. The meeting aimed to promote African trade growth and regional economic integration through innovative customs procedures. Furthermore, the goal was to enhance customs efficiency and risk management capabilities within the ESA region.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade Initiatives

WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade Initiatives

On International Women's Day, the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the crucial role of women in global trade and actively promotes gender equality. Through conferences, the development of assessment tools, and the implementation of leadership development programs, the WCO is dedicated to elevating the position of women in customs, breaking down gender barriers, and jointly building a more prosperous and equitable global trade landscape. The WCO's efforts aim to empower women and ensure their equal participation in shaping the future of international trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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DR Congo Customs Boosts Revenue with HS Code Upgrade

DR Congo Customs Boosts Revenue with HS Code Upgrade

DR Congo Customs aims to achieve customs autonomy by introducing HS tools and conducting nationwide training, reducing reliance on external organizations. This initiative includes equipping customs offices with HS software, developing provincial promotion plans, improving vocational training systems, and strengthening integrity. By enhancing the professionalism and operational capabilities of customs personnel, DR Congo hopes to boost its economic growth. The implementation of HS tools and comprehensive training are key components of this strategy for achieving greater self-reliance in customs management.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Law Enforcement Cracks Down on Wildlife Trafficking

Global Law Enforcement Cracks Down on Wildlife Trafficking

The CITES Secretary-General, at the WCO Enforcement Committee meeting, emphasized the shared goals and close collaboration between the two organizations in combating illegal wildlife trade. Through capacity building, data sharing, and joint enforcement efforts, they are jointly safeguarding global ecological security. Customs agencies are the first line of defense in protecting wildlife, requiring global participation. The collaboration between CITES and WCO is crucial in addressing the complex challenges posed by wildlife trafficking and ensuring the effective implementation of international regulations.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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UN Adopts GOVCBR Standard to Simplify Global Trade

UN Adopts GOVCBR Standard to Simplify Global Trade

The new UN/EDIFACT message GOVCBR aims to provide a unified data submission standard for cross-border trade, simplifying processes and improving efficiency. The WCO is developing implementation guidelines, aligning with the UN/CEFACT Core Component Library. The promotion of GOVCBR will drive global trade facilitation and provide a foundation for trade data analysis. It streamlines information exchange between traders and government agencies, reducing redundancies and promoting transparency. This standardized approach is crucial for fostering a more efficient and secure global trading environment.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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