WCO Workshop Enhances Namibias IP Enforcement

WCO Workshop Enhances Namibias IP Enforcement

The WCO held a workshop in Namibia to enhance intellectual property rights enforcement capabilities of Customs administrations in Eastern and Southern Africa. The workshop focused on risk management, information sharing, and the identification of counterfeit medicines. Participants explored strategies to strengthen regional cooperation and combat the trade in illicit goods that infringe on intellectual property rights. The aim was to improve the effectiveness of Customs administrations in protecting intellectual property at the border and fostering a safer and more secure trading environment within the region.

Gabon Enhances Customs Skills with WCO Training Program

Gabon Enhances Customs Skills with WCO Training Program

Under the WCO-WACAM project funded by the Swedish government, the Gabon Customs Administration successfully held a 'Train-the-Trainer' workshop. This significantly enhanced the capabilities of 23 participants in key areas such as customs valuation and tariffs. The project not only lays the foundation for a sustainable talent development system within Gabon Customs but also provides valuable lessons learned for other developing countries. The workshop aimed to empower participants to become effective trainers and contribute to the long-term strengthening of customs operations.

Tunisia Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

Tunisia Boosts Customs Audits with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a national workshop on Post Clearance Audit (PCA) in Tunisia, aiming to enhance the Tunisian Customs' PCA capabilities. The workshop covered WCO guidelines interpretation, human resource management, case studies, and group discussions. It assisted Tunisian Customs in optimizing audit processes, addressing risks in complex trade environments, and promoting economic development. The training sought to improve efficiency and effectiveness in identifying and addressing compliance issues after goods have been released, contributing to a more secure and predictable trade environment.

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.

Malaysia Boosts Border Security with Wcobacked Risk System

Malaysia Boosts Border Security with Wcobacked Risk System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a risk management workshop in Malaysia to support the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) in strengthening its border security. The workshop focused on risk identification, targeting, postal/express consignment risk management, and international cooperation. By combining theory and practice, it aimed to enhance RMCD's risk management capabilities, laying the foundation for building a smart customs administration and safeguarding national security. The workshop provided valuable insights and practical tools for RMCD to improve its risk assessment and mitigation strategies.

Chinas Nanjing Customs Lab Named WCO Regional Hub for Asiapacific Trade Security

Chinas Nanjing Customs Lab Named WCO Regional Hub for Asiapacific Trade Security

Nanjing Customs Laboratory of China's General Administration of Customs has officially become a WCO Regional Customs Laboratory, marking a new opportunity for customs cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. The laboratory boasts expertise in areas such as agricultural products, minerals, and hazardous materials identification. It will provide support to WCO members in the region, strengthen information sharing, organize workshops and training courses to enhance the professional skills of customs personnel, facilitate trade, and contribute to building an open, secure, and prosperous global trade system.

Zimbabwe Enhances AEO System Following WCO Review

Zimbabwe Enhances AEO System Following WCO Review

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has completed a review of Zimbabwe's Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) pilot program, offering recommendations for upgrades to build a 'next generation' AEO program aligned with international standards. This initiative, supported financially and technically by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) of the UK, collaborates with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) to promote trade facilitation and supply chain security in Zimbabwe. The goal is to enhance efficiency and security within Zimbabwe's trade environment through improved AEO program implementation.

Cte Divoire Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

Cte Divoire Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

The WCO conducted an assessment in Côte d'Ivoire on the progress of gender equality and diversity within customs administration. The assessment provided recommendations for improvement, aiming to create a work environment that promotes equal opportunities for all. The focus was on identifying areas where customs practices and policies could be enhanced to foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace, benefiting both employees and the effectiveness of customs operations. Ultimately, this initiative supports the WCO's commitment to promoting gender equality and diversity within its member organizations.

Tanzania Adopts WCO Program to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Tanzania Adopts WCO Program to Enhance Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) in implementing Post Clearance Audit (PCA) through a capacity building workshop. This initiative aimed to optimize the PCA framework, enhance risk identification and analysis capabilities, and promote trade facilitation. The activity was part of the Swedish government-funded Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, designed to assist Sub-Saharan African countries in improving customs efficiency and achieving sustainable development. The workshop provided valuable training and resources to TRA officials, fostering a more streamlined and effective customs process.

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.