World Bank WCO Aid Philippines in Customs Modernization

World Bank WCO Aid Philippines in Customs Modernization

With support from the World Bank and the World Customs Organization (WCO), the Philippine Customs is undertaking a reform and modernization program. The project aims to create a smart and efficient new customs administration by strengthening its IT infrastructure, revitalizing human resource management, and establishing a customs academy. The WCO provides expert tools and analysis to assist the Philippine Customs in its strategic transformation, improve service delivery, and contribute more significantly to national economic development.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Namibia Boosts Customs Skills to Improve Tax Revenue

Namibia Boosts Customs Skills to Improve Tax Revenue

With the support of the EU-WCO Harmonized System Programme for Africa, the Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) organized a national commodity classification workshop. This initiative aims to enhance the commodity classification skills of customs officers, address issues such as incorrect classification and false declarations, and close tax loopholes. By combining online learning with offline workshops, the program strengthens both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, building a comprehensive support system. This contributes to customs modernization, ultimately promoting economic prosperity in Namibia.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Highway Bill Stalled by Political Gridlock Pandemic Concerns

US Highway Bill Stalled by Political Gridlock Pandemic Concerns

The US highway bill faces potential gridlock due to bipartisan disagreements, raising concerns in the freight industry about hindering infrastructure modernization. The pandemic's impact, including changing commuting patterns and declining gasoline tax revenues, has placed significant financial strain on state transportation departments. The bill's ultimate fate hinges on the election results and control of the Senate, potentially leading to major adjustments in future infrastructure investment directions. The outcome will have a significant impact on the nation's transportation network and economic growth.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Short Line Railroads Gain Boost from Expanded Tax Credits

Short Line Railroads Gain Boost from Expanded Tax Credits

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) welcomes the Senate's proposed legislation to improve the short line railroad tax credit. The bill aims to incentivize infrastructure investment by short line railroads, driving modernization and economic development. It achieves this by increasing the credit cap, covering all mileage, and introducing an inflation index, aligning the credit more closely with actual costs. These changes will encourage railroads to invest in crucial infrastructure upgrades, leading to a more efficient and robust rail network.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Lesotho Revenue Authority Advances Operational Excellence in Strategic Retreat

Lesotho Revenue Authority Advances Operational Excellence in Strategic Retreat

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) successfully held a high-level strategic retreat to clarify strategic priorities, enhance leadership, and accelerate reform and modernization. The World Customs Organization, the World Bank, and the Finnish Customs Cooperation Fund provided support. The retreat strengthened the management team's cohesion and provided clear direction for the organization's future development. Key focus areas included improving tax administration, fostering effective leadership, and driving strategic growth initiatives to enhance the LRA's overall performance and contribution to Lesotho's economic development.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ghana Modernizes Customs with WCO Assistance

Ghana Modernizes Customs with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, supports the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in enhancing stakeholder engagement to foster a more transparent and efficient tax environment. Through training and pilot consultative committee meetings, the GRA strengthens its connections with businesses and the public, collaboratively addressing issues and improving service quality. This process culminates in an action plan to drive customs modernization. The initiative aims to build trust and cooperation, leading to a more effective and responsive customs administration in Ghana.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guatemala Customs Boosts Leadership for Trade Efficiency

Guatemala Customs Boosts Leadership for Trade Efficiency

With the support of the World Customs Organization, the Tax Administration Superintendency of Guatemala held a leadership and management development workshop to enhance the leadership and management skills of customs officials. Through self-awareness exercises, learning personnel management tools, and practical drills, participants unleashed their potential for change and innovation, injecting strong momentum into the modernization of Guatemalan customs and building an efficient and convenient customs clearance environment. The workshop aimed to cultivate future leaders and improve overall organizational performance.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Benin Customs Adopts Competency Model to Enhance Efficiency

Benin Customs Adopts Competency Model to Enhance Efficiency

With the support of the Swedish government through the WACAM project, Benin Customs has successfully implemented a competency-based human resource management system. This system covers key areas such as recruitment, training, and performance evaluation, aiming to enhance the overall effectiveness of the customs administration. The Minister of Finance expressed support for the project and hopes to extend it to the tax department. A pilot competency assessment project will be launched at Cotonou Airport, laying the foundation for the modernization of human resources within Benin Customs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China Ports Association Advances Port Modernization and Global Expansion

China Ports Association Advances Port Modernization and Global Expansion

The China Port and Dock Association (CPHA), as the national industry organization, is committed to promoting the modernization of port infrastructure, enhancing international competitiveness, and fostering cooperation and information sharing within the industry. Additionally, it actively participates in the construction of the global shipping network and sustainable development.

08/05/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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MSC Invests in Feeder Fleet Modernization Boosts Chinese Shipyards

MSC Invests in Feeder Fleet Modernization Boosts Chinese Shipyards

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has launched a historic modernization program for its feeder fleet, planning to invest billions of dollars to order 120 new ships between 2026 and 2029, primarily from Chinese shipyards. This initiative aims to replace aging vessels while reinforcing MSC's leadership position in the global shipping market.

07/30/2025 Logistics
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