Zimbabwe Zambia Boost Trade with Customs Data Link

Zimbabwe Zambia Boost Trade with Customs Data Link

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Zimbabwe and Zambia are advancing customs data interconnectivity to facilitate cross-border trade. By standardizing data, establishing data exchange protocols, and creating a change management framework, the two countries aim to reduce clearance times, lower trade costs, and enhance risk management capabilities. This initiative serves as a model for customs cooperation in other African nations, promoting regional economic integration. The project emphasizes streamlined processes and improved efficiency, ultimately contributing to a more competitive and integrated trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kazakhstan Advances Customs Modernization Via WCO Audit Workshop

Kazakhstan Advances Customs Modernization Via WCO Audit Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted an online national seminar for Kazakhstan, focusing on post-clearance audit (PCA) capacity building. The seminar aimed to enhance the country's customs trade compliance, promote trade facilitation, and highlighted the importance of a 'soft and hard' approach to auditing, risk management, information sharing, and international cooperation. This initiative supports Kazakhstan's customs modernization efforts.

01/05/2026 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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IRU Training Enhances Customs Efficiency and Trade Security

IRU Training Enhances Customs Efficiency and Trade Security

IRU's TIR-EPD training enhances customs efficiency and trade security. This program focuses on leveraging the Electronic Pre-Declaration (EPD) system to facilitate trade and improve risk management. By equipping customs officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to utilize EPD effectively, the training contributes to faster border crossings, reduced delays, and a more secure supply chain. Ultimately, the TIR-EPD training promotes seamless international road transport and strengthens global trade relationships through improved customs procedures.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Shipping Crisis Worsens As Blank Sailings Surge

Global Shipping Crisis Worsens As Blank Sailings Surge

The global shipping industry faces significant challenges due to US-China trade friction, with a surge in blank sailings surpassing even pandemic levels. Reports indicate a substantial decline in freight volume on Asia-US routes. Businesses should proactively plan, diversify sourcing, and strengthen collaborations to navigate the evolving trade landscape. The increase in blank sailings indicates reduced demand and capacity management by shipping companies in response to the trade tensions and their impact on cargo volumes.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Albania Joins Revised Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Albania Joins Revised Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Albania's accession to the Revised Kyoto Convention signifies its commitment to enhancing customs efficiency and integrating into global trade facilitation. As a cornerstone of modern customs procedures, the Convention promotes international trade by streamlining processes, applying information technology, implementing risk management, and strengthening cooperation. This has a profound impact on the global economy, fostering smoother and more efficient cross-border transactions. Its adoption reflects Albania's dedication to aligning with international standards and fostering a more competitive trade environment.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Cuba Strengthens Trade Facilitation in WTO Compliance Push

Cuba Strengthens Trade Facilitation in WTO Compliance Push

Cuban Customs is actively embracing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. It has significantly improved customs clearance efficiency through various measures, including risk management, information technology application, cooperation and mutual benefit, and personnel training, earning high praise from the business community. Their experience demonstrates that proactive planning and action are key to achieving trade facilitation, providing valuable lessons for other customs departments. This proactive approach highlights the benefits of early adoption and strategic implementation of trade facilitation measures.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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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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Peru Bolivia Enhance Customs Ties to Streamline Trade

Peru Bolivia Enhance Customs Ties to Streamline Trade

Customs cooperation between Peru and Bolivia focuses on exchanging experiences in risk management and customs laboratories. The collaboration aims to enhance trade facilitation and promote regional economic development. This includes sharing best practices and exploring collaborative strategies to improve efficiency and security in cross-border trade. The initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and foster a more competitive and integrated regional market. Ultimately, this cooperation contributes to economic growth and strengthens ties between the two nations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Central America Adopts Kyoto Convention to Modernize Customs

Central America Adopts Kyoto Convention to Modernize Customs

The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)-World Customs Organization Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) launched an assistance program in Central America to help countries adopt the Revised Kyoto Convention, simplify customs procedures, and promote trade facilitation. Through workshops, self-assessments, and capacity building, the project will support Central America in improving customs management and integrating into the global trade system. The initiative aims to enhance efficiency and transparency in customs operations across the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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