Global Customs Intensifies Crackdown on Fake COVID Supplies in Southeast Asia

Global Customs Intensifies Crackdown on Fake COVID Supplies in Southeast Asia

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is strengthening cooperation with ASEAN to combat cross-border smuggling of counterfeit and substandard COVID-19 supplies. This collaboration aims to enhance customs control capabilities, strengthen intelligence sharing, and leverage technology to build a new framework for global customs cooperation. The initiative seeks to safeguard global health security by preventing the proliferation of illicit medical products and ensuring the integrity of supply chains. This partnership underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing transnational threats and protecting public health.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Preclearance Boosts Crossborder Ecommerce Efficiency

Customs Preclearance Boosts Crossborder Ecommerce Efficiency

A WCO seminar in Tunisia explored advance processing systems and e-commerce challenges to improve customs efficiency. Advance processing uses pre-arrival data for risk assessment, speeding clearance, controlling risks, and facilitating compliance. E-commerce challenges require customs to adopt risk management, technology, and collaboration strategies. Tunisian Customs is actively revising regulations, piloting programs, sharing data, and building capacity to embrace change, ultimately benefiting consumers. This proactive approach aims to streamline processes, enhance security, and adapt to the evolving landscape of international trade in the digital age.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances IT Leadership for West and Central African Customs

WCO Enhances IT Leadership for West and Central African Customs

The WCO held an Information Technology Strategic Seminar for West and Central Africa in Senegal. This event aimed to enhance customs leadership capabilities to address evolving trade challenges and promote economic development within the region. The seminar focused on leveraging information technology to improve customs efficiency, security, and compliance. Participants explored strategic approaches to modernize customs operations and facilitate legitimate trade flows, ultimately contributing to regional economic growth and integration. The WCO continues to support its member administrations in adopting innovative solutions for effective border management.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Togo in Customs Valuation to Boost Trade Efficiency

WCO Aids Togo in Customs Valuation to Boost Trade Efficiency

WCO training assisted Togo in enhancing its customs valuation capabilities. This initiative focused on strengthening personnel skills to ensure compliant and efficient valuation practices. By improving valuation procedures, the training contributes to trade facilitation and promotes smoother international trade flows. The program aims to equip Togo's customs officials with the necessary expertise to accurately assess the value of imported goods, leading to increased revenue collection and improved border security. Ultimately, this technical assistance supports Togo's economic development by fostering a more transparent and predictable trading environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and Japan Launch Global Customs Training Program

WCO and Japan Launch Global Customs Training Program

The WCO-Japan Career Development Programme (CDP) is considered a prestigious training ground for customs professionals globally, aiming to enhance the expertise of customs officials from various countries and foster international cooperation. The program combines theoretical learning with practical exercises, providing participants with comprehensive career development opportunities. It contributes to global trade facilitation and security by equipping customs officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate complex international trade environments. The CDP plays a vital role in building capacity within customs administrations worldwide.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Hosts Workshop on Trade Modernization Reforms

Burkina Faso Hosts Workshop on Trade Modernization Reforms

With support from Japan, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a seminar in Burkina Faso to promote the implementation of the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC). The seminar aimed to enhance customs efficiency and facilitate integration into global trade. The RKC is a key international instrument for simplifying and harmonizing customs procedures. By adopting the RKC and implementing programs like Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification, countries can streamline trade processes, reduce costs, and improve security. This initiative contributes to broader trade facilitation efforts and supports economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Survey Aims to Fasttrack Tech Adoption

Global Customs Survey Aims to Fasttrack Tech Adoption

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a global survey to assess the application of disruptive technologies in customs, identify capacity-building needs, and promote the exchange of experiences. The survey results will update the 'WCO/WTO Study Report on Disruptive Technologies,' providing guidance for customs' digital transformation. The WCO encourages member administrations to actively participate and collectively shape the future of customs. This initiative aims to understand the impact of emerging technologies and help customs administrations leverage them effectively for improved efficiency and security.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advances Data Standards to Ease Global Passenger Travel

WCO Advances Data Standards to Ease Global Passenger Travel

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Passenger Facilitation and Control Working Group (PFCWG) 2nd Meeting focused on cruise best practices, global data standards, and secure travel. Discussions centered on draft data standards, emphasizing international cooperation and the application of technology to promote global traveler facilitation and control. The aim is to ensure safe, seamless, and sustainable international travel. The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration among customs administrations to streamline processes and enhance security measures, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and secure global travel experience.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Customs and Logistics Innovations Boost Global Trade Efficiency

Customs and Logistics Innovations Boost Global Trade Efficiency

The WCO Deputy Secretary General attended the FITAC International Conference, discussing the role of customs and logistics in global competitiveness. The conference highlighted the critical role of customs in promoting economic development, focusing on two key topics: customs-business partnerships and customs modernization. The aim is to build an efficient, convenient, and secure global trade environment, helping businesses succeed in the global market. The discussions emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation to streamline processes and enhance security, ultimately boosting economic growth and trade facilitation.

12/30/2025 Logistics
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WCO Committee Outlines Global Customs Modernization Strategy

WCO Committee Outlines Global Customs Modernization Strategy

The 209th/210th sessions of the WCO Permanent Technical Committee focused on the future development of customs, discussing key issues such as e-commerce, information technology, performance measurement, and customs-business partnerships. The meetings aimed to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies and changes in the global trade landscape, building a more efficient, secure, and convenient global trading environment. Discussions centered on how customs administrations can leverage innovation and collaboration to streamline processes and enhance security in the face of evolving trade patterns.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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