WCO Meeting Advances Digital Trade Transformation Globally

WCO Meeting Advances Digital Trade Transformation Globally

The 71st meeting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Data Model Project Team focused on optimizing the data model to adapt to evolving global trade. The meeting reviewed data model change requests, assessed the electronic bill of lading project, and updated the work plan. The role of the data model in standardization, efficiency, insight, and innovation was emphasized, along with implementation challenges. Through collaboration and innovation, the WCO will continue to drive the digital transformation of global trade. The meeting highlighted the importance of adapting to new technologies and trade practices.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases Guidebook for Futureready Customs Organizations

WCO Releases Guidebook for Futureready Customs Organizations

This guide, published by the World Customs Organization (WCO), compiles global customs best practices in work organization, workplace design, and talent management. It aims to assist member administrations in addressing challenges like pandemics and building more resilient, efficient, and attractive future customs organizations. The content covers flexible working models, process optimization and automation, open-plan office spaces, talent development and training, and employee care and well-being.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Data Model Eases Global Trade Barriers

WCO Data Model Eases Global Trade Barriers

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Data Model serves as a 'common language' for cross-border trade. By standardizing data, it empowers customs, regulatory bodies, and traders to achieve efficient and secure cross-border data exchange. Adopting the WCO Data Model can reduce compliance costs, shorten clearance times, and improve supply chain efficiency. Ultimately, this fosters global trade facilitation and economic growth.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Workshop Enhances Kazakhstans Customs Risk Management

WCO Workshop Enhances Kazakhstans Customs Risk Management

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on Customs Risk Analysis in Astana, aiming to enhance the risk identification and response capabilities of the State Revenue Committee of Kazakhstan. Supported by the China Customs Cooperation Fund, the workshop covered risk analysis methodologies, model building, and response strategies. It promoted international cooperation and exchange, contributing to the construction of a secure and efficient international trade environment. The workshop provided practical tools and knowledge to improve risk management practices within the Kazakh customs administration.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Namibia Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Partnership

Namibia Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Partnership

At the request of Namibia, the WCO conducted an assessment of its TFA implementation. The objective was to identify challenges and provide recommendations for improvement. This diagnostic aims to pave the way for future collaboration to enhance Namibia's trade facilitation performance. The WCO will work with Namibia to address identified weaknesses and build capacity, ultimately contributing to smoother and more efficient trade processes. The assessment covers various aspects of TFA implementation, offering a comprehensive overview of Namibia's current standing and potential for growth in trade facilitation.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Certification Boosts Trade in Francophone Africa

WCO Certification Boosts Trade in Francophone Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Technical and Operational Advisors (TOA) accreditation program, aims to cultivate customs experts proficient in commodity classification, rules of origin, and valuation. This initiative enhances customs capacity in French-speaking African countries, reduces trade costs and friction, and creates more market opportunities for businesses. By fostering expertise and efficiency, the program contributes to a future where trade facilitation is embraced, benefiting both governments and the private sector. The ultimate goal is to streamline processes and promote economic growth.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Training in Francophone Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Training in Francophone Africa

With EU funding, the WCO held a workshop in Burkina Faso to enhance the expertise of Customs administrations in French-speaking African countries, specifically in areas like commodity classification. The training aimed to improve customs efficiency and contribute to trade facilitation within the region. The workshop focused on practical skills and knowledge transfer to strengthen customs operations and promote smoother trade flows. This initiative underscores the WCO's commitment to supporting its members in Africa and fostering economic development through improved customs practices.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Valuation and Transfer Pricing Align for Multinationals

Customs Valuation and Transfer Pricing Align for Multinationals

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the OECD jointly held a seminar in Pretoria, focusing on the nexus between customs valuation and transfer pricing. The conference promoted cooperation between tax and customs authorities, exploring the application of transfer pricing studies in customs valuation. It emphasized information sharing, aiming to build a fairer international trade environment. Discussions centered on how transfer pricing methodologies can inform customs valuation practices, ensuring accurate and equitable assessment of goods for duty purposes. The initiative seeks to enhance transparency and combat illicit financial flows related to trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WTO WCO Assess Techs Role in Ecommerce Trade Shift

WTO WCO Assess Techs Role in Ecommerce Trade Shift

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) co-organized a seminar at the Public Forum, exploring the role of disruptive technologies and e-commerce in post-pandemic trade recovery. The conference highlighted data-driven Customs development, WTO's policy guidance, Zambia's practical experience, and the private sector's perspective. It aimed to inject new vitality into the future development of global trade. The discussions emphasized leveraging data and technology to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and foster a more resilient and inclusive global trading system in the evolving digital landscape.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Data Model Update Enhances Global Customs Efficiency

WCO Data Model Update Enhances Global Customs Efficiency

The 63rd meeting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Data Model Project Team was successfully held, focusing on the progress of WCO Data Model V4, data maintenance request processing, and supporting the International Maritime Organization (IMO) new dataset. The meeting utilized the WCO Data Model application for the first time, improving data maintenance efficiency. The launch of WCO Data Model V4 will further enhance the standardization of customs data exchange and promote global trade facilitation.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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