Azerbaijan Expands AEO Program to Facilitate Silk Road Trade

Azerbaijan Expands AEO Program to Facilitate Silk Road Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Azerbaijan Customs in accelerating its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, aiming to enhance supply chain security and improve trade efficiency. Through capacity-building workshops and the development of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs), Azerbaijan is poised to better leverage its strategic geographic location as a key node on the 'Silk Road' to foster economic development. This initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures and promote a more secure and efficient trading environment for businesses operating in and through Azerbaijan.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asia Boosts Customs Capacity to Curb Illegal Wildlife Trade

Asia Boosts Customs Capacity to Curb Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the Inama Project, conducts customs capacity building training in Asia to combat illegal wildlife trade (IWT) and protect endangered species. The project contributes to building a strong defense against IWT by enhancing the skills of customs officers, strengthening international cooperation, raising public awareness, and promoting policy improvements. Businesses should also actively participate in protecting biodiversity. The training aims to improve detection and prevention of IWT, ultimately safeguarding vulnerable species and ecosystems from the devastating impacts of this illicit activity.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Comoros Boosts Customs Skills for WTO Accession Bid

Comoros Boosts Customs Skills for WTO Accession Bid

A joint WTO-WCO workshop aimed to enhance Comoros' customs valuation capabilities in preparation for WTO accession. The workshop covered topics such as customs valuation methods, pre-shipment inspection, and trade facilitation. The goal was to assist Comoros in establishing an efficient and transparent trade system to promote economic development. The experience of Comoros can offer valuable insights for other developing countries seeking to improve their trade practices and integrate into the global trading system. This initiative highlights the importance of capacity building for successful WTO membership.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs HR Strategies for Crisis Resilience and Adaptation

Customs HR Strategies for Crisis Resilience and Adaptation

This article provides an in-depth interpretation of the World Customs Organization (WCO) guidelines, aiming to assist customs administrations in enhancing human resource resilience during crises. It analyzes the challenges faced by customs HR under the pandemic and elaborates on seven key areas for building resilience, including leadership & communication, employee health & safety, and workplace transformation. Drawing on international best practices, the article offers valuable insights and references for customs administrations to address future challenges. This resource is designed to strengthen HR functions within customs agencies globally.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guatemala Strengthens Customs Oversight for Tax Reform

Guatemala Strengthens Customs Oversight for Tax Reform

The Superintendency of Tax Administration of Guatemala, with SECO-WCO support, held a leadership and management development workshop for senior managers. The aim was to enhance the skills of customs managers, promote the modernization of the customs system, facilitate trade, increase tax revenue, and improve international competitiveness. The WCO's Leadership and Management Development Programme makes a significant contribution to the development of customs systems worldwide. The workshop emphasized strategic thinking and effective implementation of customs reforms, ultimately fostering a more efficient and transparent trade environment.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Boost Supply Chain Resilience Postcovid

Asiapacific Customs Boost Supply Chain Resilience Postcovid

WCO Asia-Pacific members shared experiences in responding to crises like COVID-19 and explored ways to enhance supply chain resilience during an online seminar. The meeting emphasized the importance of international cooperation, data sharing, and automated clearance to build a more efficient and secure regional customs system. Discussions focused on strategies for mitigating disruptions and ensuring the smooth flow of goods in the face of future challenges. The goal is to strengthen the region's ability to withstand and recover from unexpected events impacting trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Adopts Cloud Training for Workforce Growth

Asiapacific Customs Adopts Cloud Training for Workforce Growth

Under the framework of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Asia-Pacific customs administrations discussed the challenges and opportunities in training management amidst digital transformation through online seminars. They reached a consensus on capacity building, talent development strategies, and the effective implementation of virtual training models. The aim is to build a talent cultivation system adaptable to future development, jointly address challenges, and achieve the common development of regional customs. This collaboration fosters a skilled workforce prepared for the evolving landscape of international trade and customs procedures.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Indonesia Boosts Customs to Rival Asiapacific Trade Hubs

Indonesia Boosts Customs to Rival Asiapacific Trade Hubs

Indonesia and the World Customs Organization (WCO) have signed an agreement to establish a Regional Training Center (RTC) and a Regional Customs Laboratory (RCL) in Indonesia. This initiative aims to enhance the professional skills of customs officers and improve commodity inspection capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region. The goal is to combat smuggling, facilitate trade, and strengthen global supply chain resilience. Indonesia will play a more significant role in regional customs cooperation through these facilities, contributing to improved efficiency and security in international trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Customs Adopts Brazils Risk Management Strategies

Colombia Customs Adopts Brazils Risk Management Strategies

Colombian Customs officials visited Brazil under the WCO framework to learn about their advanced practices in risk management and post-clearance audit, aiming to enhance their own operational capabilities. This visit fostered customs cooperation between the two countries and injected new vitality into global trade facilitation. The exchange focused on understanding Brazil's strategies for identifying and mitigating risks in international trade, as well as their methods for verifying compliance after goods have been released. The goal is to implement similar effective measures in Colombia.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Southern Africa Boosts Customs Skills Via WCOJICA Partnership

Southern Africa Boosts Customs Skills Via WCOJICA Partnership

A WCO/JICA-supported customs valuation training program for Southern Africa took place in Botswana. The initiative aimed to enhance the customs valuation capabilities of five countries in the region. By improving valuation practices, the project contributes to regional economic development and facilitates smoother trade flows within Southern Africa. The training program focused on equipping customs officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately assess the value of imported goods, ensuring fair and efficient revenue collection and promoting a level playing field for businesses.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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