Pacific Islands Enhance Customs Skills Via WCO Training Program

Pacific Islands Enhance Customs Skills Via WCO Training Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a Harmonized System (HS) expert development program for Pacific Island Countries, aiming to enhance customs capacity in the region by building a regional pool of experts. The first working group activity was held in October 2021, with the participation of customs administrations from six countries, including Fiji and Papua New Guinea. This initiative, a collaboration between the WCO and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), seeks to promote trade development and economic cooperation among Pacific Island Countries.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Half of Japanese Firms Reassess China Operations Amid Tensions

Half of Japanese Firms Reassess China Operations Amid Tensions

A survey reveals that over 60% of Japanese companies believe strained Japan-China relations negatively impact the Japanese economy, with nearly half already affected or anticipating business pressure. The tourism sector is suffering, and manufacturers are concerned about supply chain risks. If tensions persist, almost half of the companies will reassess their business strategies in China, with some potentially considering withdrawal. This highlights the significant economic consequences and strategic adjustments Japanese businesses are contemplating due to the evolving geopolitical landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCOJICA Initiative Strengthens Customs Trade in East and Southern Africa

WCOJICA Initiative Strengthens Customs Trade in East and Southern Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), successfully held the 3rd Working Group Activity of the Advanced Rules of Origin Trainers Project for the East and Southern Africa region in Zambia. This project aims to cultivate qualified customs trainers, enhance regional customs capacity, and facilitate the smooth implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Through systematic training and curriculum development, the project will provide a solid foundation of skilled personnel for regional trade facilitation.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Boosts Customs with Wcobacked Reforms

Burkina Faso Boosts Customs with Wcobacked Reforms

With support from the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Burkina Faso to assist the country in implementing the revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) and the SAFE Framework. The workshop focused on the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, providing practical guidance on the RKC and AEO for customs officials and private sector representatives of Burkina Faso. It also helped develop action plans to improve customs administration and promote international trade development in Burkina Faso.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Customs Clearance System Aims to Streamline Global Trade

New Customs Clearance System Aims to Streamline Global Trade

This paper delves into the pre-arrival processing proposal jointly presented by Hong Kong, China, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, and Switzerland. It analyzes the core content, advantages, and challenges of this proposal, integrating international standards, practices, and case studies. The paper forecasts the future development trends of pre-arrival processing, emphasizing the crucial roles of risk management, technological innovation, capacity building, and public awareness. The aim is to assist businesses in seizing trade opportunities by understanding and implementing effective pre-arrival processing strategies.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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