WCO Launches Antitrafficking Training in MENA to Protect Cultural Heritage

WCO Launches Antitrafficking Training in MENA to Protect Cultural Heritage

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with various partners, successfully conducted a training-of-trainers workshop for customs officers in the Middle East and North Africa region. This initiative aimed to enhance the capacity of customs personnel to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural property. The training covered cultural property identification, risk management, and international cooperation, emphasizing the importance of implementing relevant WCO resolutions. This training represents a significant step by the WCO in the field of cultural heritage protection and contributes to strengthening the defenses against cultural property crime.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs African Customs Agencies to Strengthen Green Trade

WCO Backs African Customs Agencies to Strengthen Green Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme and the Basel Convention Secretariat, conducted workshops in Kenya and Tanzania. These workshops aimed to enhance the knowledge and enforcement capabilities of the two countries' customs departments regarding the Basel Convention and the Montreal Protocol. This initiative is part of the Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, designed to promote sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa and strengthen the role of customs in environmental protection. The workshops focused on identifying and intercepting illegal shipments of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Reports Palestines Progress in Mercator Trade Program

WCO Reports Palestines Progress in Mercator Trade Program

A World Customs Organization (WCO) assessment reveals Palestine's active participation in the Mercator Programme, which supports the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and simplifies trade procedures. The Palestinian Customs Administration has benefited significantly in areas such as tariffs and risk management, maintaining close ties with the private sector and neighboring customs administrations. The assessment lays the groundwork for future tailored support, and the WCO will continue to provide assistance to promote Palestinian economic development and regional trade facilitation. This collaboration aims to further streamline customs processes and enhance trade efficiency.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zimbabwe Boosts Trade Audits with WCO Support

Zimbabwe Boosts Trade Audits with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Zimbabwe to enhance its customs' post-clearance audit (PCA) capabilities, implement the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), and strengthen customs-private sector cooperation. The workshop aimed to improve the effectiveness of PCA processes, ensuring compliance and promoting legitimate trade. By building capacity in PCA, Zimbabwe customs can better manage risks, optimize revenue collection, and contribute to a more efficient and secure trading environment. The event underscored the importance of collaboration between customs administrations and businesses in achieving trade facilitation goals.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Group Tackles Disruptive Tech in Global Trade

WCO Group Tackles Disruptive Tech in Global Trade

The 44th meeting of the World Customs Organization's Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) focused on the impact of disruptive technologies on global trade. Key topics included cross-border e-commerce, public-private information exchange, and regional cooperation. Through high-level dialogues, the PSCG and WCO Policy Commission members explored the application of technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain in the customs domain. These discussions aimed to build a more efficient and secure future for global trade by leveraging innovative solutions and fostering collaboration between public and private sectors.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO APEC Boost Digital Trade in Asiapacific

WCO APEC Boost Digital Trade in Asiapacific

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the role of smart borders in Connectivity 4.0 at the APEC Summit in Chile. He presented WCO's initiatives to facilitate the integration of SMEs into global value chains and address the challenges of e-commerce. The WCO also expressed its support for Chilean customs reform, aiming to jointly build a new landscape for digital trade in the Asia-Pacific region. The focus is on leveraging technology and collaboration to streamline trade processes and foster economic growth within the APEC framework.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lianlian International Boosts Zhongshan Lighting Industrys Global Reach

Lianlian International Boosts Zhongshan Lighting Industrys Global Reach

LianLian Global, in collaboration with partners, held an overseas conference for the lighting industrial belt in Guzhen, Zhongshan, aiming to help local lighting companies transform into cross-border e-commerce. The conference brought together platforms, service providers, and manufacturing enterprises, providing comprehensive support such as cross-border payment, logistics, and platform operation. This initiative helps companies solve challenges in going global, seize global market opportunities, and promote the digital transformation of China's manufacturing industry. The goal is to empower businesses to navigate the complexities of international trade and thrive in the global marketplace.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Port of Los Angeles Rebounds Signaling Shipping Recovery

Port of Los Angeles Rebounds Signaling Shipping Recovery

The Port of Los Angeles saw a 7% year-over-year increase in cargo volume in October, marking the third consecutive month of growth and boosting its market share to 46%. ZIM's resumption of express services signals market confidence. While slightly down month-over-month, the port is proactively addressing challenges by expanding cold chain and e-commerce logistics. Furthermore, the port is committed to a green port strategy, striving for sustainable development amidst a complex economic landscape. The port aims to maintain its competitive edge by adapting to evolving market demands and prioritizing environmental responsibility.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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UPS and USPS Renew Talks to Improve Delivery Efficiency

UPS and USPS Renew Talks to Improve Delivery Efficiency

UPS has resumed discussions with the United States Postal Service to explore efficient delivery solutions with UPS Ground Saver. Despite current delivery models resulting in cost overruns, UPS aims to enhance service quality and profitability through a new strategic partnership, potentially leading to a win-win situation in the future.

08/07/2025 Logistics
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