WCO Forum Seeks to Modernize Global Customs Practices

WCO Forum Seeks to Modernize Global Customs Practices

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held the inaugural Customs Work Organization Forum (CWOF), aiming to reshape the paradigm of customs work. The meeting gathered global experts to discuss key areas such as work settings, workplace design, and workforce management. The forum adopted its terms of reference and shared survey findings. The WCO plans to continue hosting meetings, conducting case studies, and developing best practice guidelines to support customs administrations in addressing the challenges of the 'new normal'.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Businesses Join Forces to Tackle Postpandemic Smuggling

WCO Businesses Join Forces to Tackle Postpandemic Smuggling

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is collaborating with the business community to address the challenges posed by smuggling and counterfeit trade in the post-pandemic era. By strengthening customs-business partnerships, leveraging data analytics and technological innovation, the aim is to build a more secure and efficient global trade system. This collaboration seeks to protect consumer rights, maintain fair market competition, and ultimately achieve sustainable supply chain development. The joint efforts are crucial for mitigating risks and fostering a resilient and trustworthy international trade environment.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Promotes Gender Equality to Strengthen Global Trade

WCO Promotes Gender Equality to Strengthen Global Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Virtual Working Group (VWG) on Gender Equality and Diversity convened to explore how to enhance collaboration with the private sector to promote gender-inclusive trade facilitation, better addressing the needs of women traders and marginalized groups. The WCO is building a more gender-equal customs environment through initiatives like online learning modules and the 'Women in Customs' campaign. These efforts aim to ensure that customs procedures and policies are equitable and supportive of all stakeholders, regardless of gender.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Asiapacific Customs in Tackling Plastic Waste

WCO Aids Asiapacific Customs in Tackling Plastic Waste

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assists Asia-Pacific customs in enhancing plastic waste management capabilities through virtual diagnostic missions, tailored implementation plans, and regional workshops, addressing cross-border plastic waste challenges. The Basel Convention amendment's entry into force marks a new phase in global plastic waste governance. Data empowerment will improve the precision and effectiveness of plastic waste management, fostering a cleaner and more sustainable future. These efforts highlight the importance of international collaboration and innovative approaches to tackle the growing problem of plastic pollution.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Tonga Customs Upgrades Audit System with WCO Backing

Tonga Customs Upgrades Audit System with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a post-clearance audit diagnostic mission in Tonga to help the country optimize its post-clearance audit system and promote trade facilitation. Through in-depth discussions with Tongan Customs and external stakeholders, WCO experts provided professional guidance to help Tongan Customs improve efficiency, reduce business costs, and inject new impetus into Tonga's economic development. The mission aims to enhance Tonga's customs procedures and contribute to a more streamlined and efficient trade environment.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Madagascar Customs Enhances Trade Via WCO Training Program

Madagascar Customs Enhances Trade Via WCO Training Program

The WCO is supporting the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) in talent development, enhancing human resource management, and addressing trade facilitation challenges. This support includes the launch of an e-learning platform to promote sustainable development. The initiative aims to strengthen the MRA's capabilities in key areas, enabling them to better manage their workforce and streamline trade processes. By investing in talent and providing modern learning tools, the WCO and MRA are working together to create a more efficient and effective customs environment in Malawi.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs UAE in Standardizing Customs Recruitment Training

WCO Backs UAE in Standardizing Customs Recruitment Training

At the request of the UAE Federal Customs Authority, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of its customs personnel recruitment and training processes. The aim was to establish unified standards, improve customs efficiency, and facilitate international trade. A WCO expert team, through research and interviews, drafted a guide for a unified recruitment and training system and developed a follow-up action plan. This laid the foundation for the standardization and professionalization of the UAE customs personnel workforce.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Virtual Academy for Francophone Customs Officers

WCO Launches Virtual Academy for Francophone Customs Officers

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is opening applications for its Virtual Customs Academy (VCOA) to customs officials from Francophone countries. This online program aims to provide customs personnel with less than four years of work experience with crucial knowledge and skills to boost their professional development. Through a 14-week online learning experience, participants will gain expertise, broaden their international perspectives, build networks, and have the opportunity to enhance their career competitiveness. The application deadline is February 14, 2025.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs and Rights Holders Strengthen IP Protections

Global Customs and Rights Holders Strengthen IP Protections

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held its 9th Rights Holders Consultation Group Meeting, focusing on the current state of intellectual property infringement and discussing challenges such as IP protection in the e-commerce environment and environmentally sound disposal of infringing goods. The meeting emphasized strengthening cooperation between customs and rights holders, building information exchange platforms, and jointly combating counterfeit goods to maintain fair trade practices and promote global economic prosperity. This collaborative approach aims to effectively address IP infringements and safeguard legitimate trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Revises Trade Rules to Enhance WTO Pact Compliance

WCO Revises Trade Rules to Enhance WTO Pact Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has updated its 'Implementation Guidance on Trade Facilitation,' integrating the latest tools and member practices to enhance the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The new guidance covers areas such as transparency, customs-business cooperation, advance rulings, Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), border management, single window, customs brokers, transit, Globally Networked Customs, and National Trade Facilitation Committees. It provides more practical and comprehensive guidance for global trade facilitation, aiming to streamline processes and reduce trade costs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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