Transforming Trade in the Middle East A Key Path to Adapting to New Customs Regulations

Transforming Trade in the Middle East A Key Path to Adapting to New Customs Regulations

The trade landscape in the Middle East is rapidly changing, with countries reforming customs processes to promote the development of the non-oil economy. Saudi Arabia's total trade reached $286 billion in 2023, highlighting its regional dominance. As nations like Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait actively expand international trade and seek economic diversification, customs reform is playing a crucial role. Partnering with efficient logistics providers will be key for businesses to navigate the complexities of customs.

03/19/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Colombia Mexico Boost Customs Risk Management Via GTFP

Colombia Mexico Boost Customs Risk Management Via GTFP

Supported by the WCO-SECO GTFP project, Colombian Customs visited Mexican Customs to learn about risk management practices and enhance its modernization. The visit combined online and offline sessions, focusing on risk identification, assessment, control, departmental collaboration, and IT infrastructure. This cooperation aims to promote trade facilitation and address global trade challenges. The knowledge gained will help Colombia improve its risk management system and contribute to more efficient and secure trade processes.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ethiopia Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Meet Global Norms

Ethiopia Modernizes Customs Tariffs to Meet Global Norms

Ethiopia is accelerating the modernization of its tariff classification system to align with international standards, aiming to facilitate trade and promote economic growth. With support from the EU-WCO Africa HS Project, the Ethiopian Customs Commission is working to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen capacity building to adapt to the evolving global trade environment. This initiative seeks to simplify customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and enhance Ethiopia's competitiveness in the international market.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cuba Adopts WCO Data Model to Modernize Customs

Cuba Adopts WCO Data Model to Modernize Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Cuban Customs in implementing the WCO Data Model through technical assistance. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes, enhance efficiency, and promote data interoperability with other government agencies. The WCO Data Model, serving as a common language for global trade, facilitates the modernization of Cuban Customs by standardizing data elements and information structures. This integration into the global trade system will ultimately improve Cuba's international competitiveness.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases Arabic Audit Guide to Enhance Middle East Trade Compliance

WCO Releases Arabic Audit Guide to Enhance Middle East Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released the Arabic version of the 'Post-Clearance Audit Guidelines' to assist Arabic-speaking members in effectively implementing post-clearance audits, enhancing trade compliance, optimizing customs control, and promoting international trade facilitation. Translated by Jordan Customs, the guidelines cover risk management, operational guidance, and digital transformation, contributing to the construction of an intelligent, efficient, and collaborative post-clearance audit system. This aims to improve overall customs effectiveness and streamline trade processes within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Costa Rica in Strengthening Supply Chains Via AEO

WCO Aids Costa Rica in Strengthening Supply Chains Via AEO

WCO assists Costa Rica in reviewing its AEO manual and strategy to establish a customs-led AEO program, enhancing trade security and efficiency. AEO certification facilitates customs clearance, improves security, and provides international recognition. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes, reduce border delays, and foster a more secure and predictable trading environment for Costa Rican businesses involved in international trade. The focus is on aligning the AEO program with international standards and best practices to maximize its benefits.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Business Directories Boost Export Growth

Global Business Directories Boost Export Growth

This paper delves into the strategic value of national yellow pages in foreign trade activities, offering a systematic approach to information gathering, organization, analysis, and application. By precisely targeting potential customers, understanding the competitive landscape, and establishing partnerships, national yellow pages empower foreign trade enterprises to succeed in the global market. The paper also emphasizes the importance of information timeliness, accuracy, data privacy protection, and business ethics in utilizing these resources effectively for international trade endeavors.

01/07/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Jordan Customs Boosts Air Cargo Efficiency with Dubai Model

Jordan Customs Boosts Air Cargo Efficiency with Dubai Model

Jordan Customs, with support from the WCO and SECO, studied Dubai Customs' best practices in air cargo clearance to enhance its capabilities and align with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to optimize risk management, promote automation, strengthen inter-agency cooperation, and improve the e-commerce environment within Jordan Customs. The goal is to contribute to global trade facilitation by implementing lessons learned from the Dubai experience, ultimately streamlining customs processes and reducing trade costs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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