Bosnia Adopts WCO Framework to Boost Customs Efficiency

Bosnia Adopts WCO Framework to Boost Customs Efficiency

With the support of the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a training program for the Bosnia and Herzegovina Customs Administration on optimizing cross-border e-commerce compliance procedures. The aim was to improve clearance efficiency, ensure trade security, promote compliant trade, and align with international standards. The training focused on the WCO Cross-Border E-Commerce Framework of Standards, covering areas such as risk management, data exchange, and intellectual property rights protection. This initiative assists Bosnia and Herzegovina Customs in achieving cross-border e-commerce compliance.

Togo Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs AEO Program

Togo Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs AEO Program

The WCO is assisting the Togo Revenue Authority in establishing an AEO program to enhance trade facilitation. This initiative focuses on optimizing processes and strengthening cooperation to promote economic growth in Togo. By implementing the AEO program, Togo aims to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and attract foreign investment. The program's success will contribute to increased efficiency in cross-border trade and a more competitive business environment for Togolese companies. This collaboration between the WCO and Togo Customs is expected to yield significant benefits for the country's economy.

Global Customs Body Firms Partner on Disruptive Tech

Global Customs Body Firms Partner on Disruptive Tech

The 44th meeting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) focused on the impact of disruptive technologies on the customs environment. It emphasized strengthening customs-private sector cooperation to address cross-border e-commerce challenges, piloting information exchange, and establishing regional organizations. Discussions covered topics such as combating counterfeit goods, global connectivity, the WCO Academy, and trade platforms. The meeting aimed to promote trade facilitation and sustainable economic development by addressing the evolving landscape and fostering collaboration between customs authorities and the private sector.

Haiti Dominican Republic Boost Customs Skills in WCO Workshop

Haiti Dominican Republic Boost Customs Skills in WCO Workshop

The WCO trained customs officers in Haiti to enhance their valuation capabilities. This initiative aimed to strengthen customs valuation practices, ensuring revenue security and promoting fair trade. Furthermore, the program fostered cooperation between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, encouraging regional collaboration in customs administration. By building capacity and promoting regional partnerships, the WCO contributes to the sustainable development of Haiti and the wider Caribbean region, facilitating legitimate trade and combating illicit activities. The focus on valuation is crucial for accurate revenue collection and a level playing field for businesses.

Botswana Enhances Customs Enforcement for Environmental Agreements

Botswana Enhances Customs Enforcement for Environmental Agreements

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme and the Basel Convention Secretariat, held a workshop in Botswana to enhance customs officers' awareness and enforcement capabilities regarding multilateral environmental agreements. The workshop covered key issues such as the Basel Convention and the Montreal Protocol, strengthening cooperation between customs and environmental agencies. The WCO will continue to provide technical support to Botswana and other countries in achieving sustainable development goals. This initiative aims to combat illegal trade in environmentally sensitive goods and promote responsible environmental practices.

Asiapacific Nations Strengthen Customs to Curb Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

Asiapacific Nations Strengthen Customs to Curb Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the Asia-Pacific Border Management Waste Project to strengthen customs control over plastic waste in the Asia-Pacific region, combat illicit trade, and raise awareness of the Basel Convention amendments. Through virtual diagnostic missions to Indonesia and the Philippines, the WCO will develop detailed implementation plans and host regional workshops to promote regional cooperation in addressing plastic waste management challenges and building green border defenses. The project aims to enhance the capacity of customs administrations to effectively regulate and manage the transboundary movement of plastic waste.

Asiapacific Rail Freight Expands with WCO Digital Customs Push

Asiapacific Rail Freight Expands with WCO Digital Customs Push

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held its first Asia-Pacific Railway Seminar in Seoul, Korea, aiming to promote the standardization and digital transformation of customs procedures for rail transport. The conference focused on the WCO Railway Guide, simplified customs procedures, the application of advanced technologies, and international cooperation. This initiative is expected to inject new momentum into the development of rail freight in the Asia-Pacific region and further promote regional economic growth. The seminar provided a platform for discussion and collaboration among stakeholders in the railway and customs sectors.

Guatemala Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Partnership

Guatemala Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the Mercator Program, supports Guatemala's Tax and Customs Administration (SAT) in implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This support includes on-site missions, needs analysis, and action plan development. The WCO team engaged with Guatemalan stakeholders, proposing recommendations to optimize customs clearance processes, enhance transparency, and strengthen inter-agency cooperation. The aim is to help Guatemala achieve trade facilitation, thereby promoting economic development. This initiative underscores the WCO's commitment to assisting member states in streamlining trade procedures and fostering a more efficient global trading environment.

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Bahamas in establishing a commodity classification advance ruling system to enhance trade facilitation. Through national workshops and technical assistance, the WCO assists the Bahamas Customs in its modernization efforts, establishing a pre-ruling system to resolve trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and promote economic development. While challenges exist in establishing the advance ruling system, the WCO's support and cooperation will help the Bahamas achieve its trade facilitation goals. This initiative aims to create a more predictable and efficient trade environment for businesses operating in the Bahamas.

Samoa Enhances Trade with Modernized Customs System

Samoa Enhances Trade with Modernized Customs System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Samoa in improving cross-border trade efficiency. Through workshops coordinating border management, the WCO promotes inter-agency cooperation, shares best practices, and provides tool support. This initiative aims to help Samoa create an efficient and convenient cross-border trade environment, ultimately fostering economic prosperity. The workshops focus on streamlining procedures and enhancing collaboration among various government agencies involved in trade, leading to reduced delays and improved trade flows. Samoa's commitment to these reforms is expected to significantly boost its economic competitiveness.