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.

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.

Argentina Adopts WCO Data Model with Chinas Backing

Argentina Adopts WCO Data Model with Chinas Backing

With the support of the China Customs Cooperation Fund, the WCO successfully held a Data Model Workshop in Argentina. The workshop aimed to assist Argentine Customs and related agencies in adopting the WCO Data Model, building a harmonized national data directory, and enhancing digitalization and trade facilitation capabilities. The workshop included technical analysis, practical exercises, and case studies, injecting new momentum into the digital transformation of Argentine Customs. The goal is to improve data standardization and streamline trade processes, contributing to overall economic growth.

WCO Tool Boosts Risk Management for Jordan Customs

WCO Tool Boosts Risk Management for Jordan Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of Jordan Customs' risk management capabilities to support its efforts in enhancing risk management. The assessment covered four key areas: risk management policies, strategic planning, intelligence, and compliance, providing recommendations for improvement. The WCO's new diagnostic tool was piloted during this mission, offering valuable lessons for other customs administrations seeking modernization. Jordan Customs will develop an action plan based on the assessment findings, and the WCO will continue to provide support to its implementation.

WCO Aids Uganda in Crackdown on Wildlife Trafficking

WCO Aids Uganda in Crackdown on Wildlife Trafficking

With funding from Sweden, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of the Uganda Revenue Authority's (URA) capacity to enforce the CITES Convention. This initiative, under the INAMA project, aims to enhance the URA's ability to combat illegal wildlife trade. The assessment included institutional reviews, officer training, and field visits. This lays the foundation for future cooperation to protect endangered wildlife species and combat wildlife trafficking.

WCO Enhances Ugandas CITES Enforcement Against Wildlife Trafficking

WCO Enhances Ugandas CITES Enforcement Against Wildlife Trafficking

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assessed the capacity of Uganda Customs to enforce the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This assessment aims to strengthen Uganda Customs' ability to combat the illegal wildlife trade. The focus is on identifying areas for improvement in customs procedures, risk management, and international cooperation to effectively prevent the trafficking of endangered species and contribute to the conservation of biodiversity. The findings will be used to develop targeted capacity-building programs and support Uganda's efforts in combating wildlife crime.

WCO Releases Guide to Improve Global Transit Efficiency

WCO Releases Guide to Improve Global Transit Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 'Compendium of Best Practices in the Field of Transit Transport' to support members and international organizations in improving transit efficiency and harmonizing the implementation of international agreements. The compendium covers key areas such as risk management, information technology, cooperation and coordination, and capacity building. It provides valuable experience for global trade facilitation.

WCO Enhances Ukrainian Customs Training Via RTC Reform

WCO Enhances Ukrainian Customs Training Via RTC Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides technical assistance to the Regional Training Center (RTC) in Ukraine to clarify its role and strategy in capacity building. By assessing the current situation, optimizing the governance structure, and developing strategic plans, the WCO helps the Ukrainian RTC enhance its training capabilities. This aims to better serve customs capacity building in Ukraine and throughout Europe. The WCO also recommends establishing a data monitoring system and strengthening data analysis capabilities to further improve the RTC's effectiveness.

Gambia Revenue Authority Reforms Management with WCO Backing

Gambia Revenue Authority Reforms Management with WCO Backing

The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA), with WCO support, has initiated strategic management reforms aimed at enhancing project management capabilities and optimizing the strategic monitoring and evaluation system. Through this collaboration, the GRA is expected to significantly improve the implementation of its corporate strategic plan. This initiative also aims to serve as a model for other African tax administrations seeking to strengthen their strategic management frameworks and improve overall organizational performance. The focus is on building internal capacity and creating a more effective and accountable tax system.

Cape Verde Enhances Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

Cape Verde Enhances Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WCO-WACAM project, supports Cape Verde in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to optimize customs efficiency, attract foreign investment, and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The forthcoming report is expected to streamline procedures, enhance port infrastructure, and strengthen inter-agency collaboration. This initiative aims to facilitate Cape Verde's integration into the global economy by improving trade competitiveness and reducing trade barriers. The study's findings will provide actionable recommendations for enhancing the overall customs clearance process.