Global Trade Grows As Kyoto Convention Membership Exceeds 113

Global Trade Grows As Kyoto Convention Membership Exceeds 113

With the accession of the Republic of the Congo, the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) now has 113 contracting parties. This convention serves as a blueprint for 21st-century customs modernization, aiming to enhance trade efficiency and reduce costs by simplifying customs procedures, optimizing the use of information technology, and effectively implementing risk management. The RKC helps businesses thrive in the global market. The WCO encourages more members to join and implement the RKC, fostering a brighter future for global trade facilitation.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Agencies Crack Down on Illegal Wildlife Trade

Global Customs Agencies Crack Down on Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Environment Programme, in collaboration with customs administrations from 11 countries, is enhancing capabilities to combat illegal wildlife trade (IWT) through online diagnostic assessments. Focusing on key areas such as training, enforcement, legislation, cooperation, intelligence, and risk management, the program tailors solutions and gathers international experts to build a global anti-smuggling defense line and safeguard ecological security. The initiative aims to improve customs' effectiveness in detecting and preventing the trafficking of endangered species and related products.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Oman Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

Oman Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Oman in establishing an advance ruling system for commodity classification and origin, providing technical guidance through workshops. This system aims to enhance trade transparency and predictability. Oman is actively improving its legal framework, standardizing operational procedures, strengthening information management, and enhancing capacity building to promote trade facilitation. The implementation of advance rulings is a key step in streamlining customs processes and fostering a more efficient trade environment for businesses operating in and with Oman.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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UAE Enhances Customs Efficiency Via Wcobacked Training Reform

UAE Enhances Customs Efficiency Via Wcobacked Training Reform

The WCO assessed the recruitment and training of customs inspectors in the UAE, recommending the standardization of customs procedures. This aims to enhance enforcement efficiency and promote trade facilitation. The assessment highlighted the need for capacity building initiatives to ensure inspectors are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement customs regulations. By adopting unified standards, the UAE can streamline customs processes, reduce delays, and improve overall trade competitiveness. This ultimately contributes to a more secure and efficient global trading system.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Palestinian Customs Program Advances Leadership and Reform

Palestinian Customs Program Advances Leadership and Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a leadership and management development workshop for Palestinian Customs, aiming to enhance the leadership and management skills of middle and senior managers. The workshop covered key areas such as leadership, personnel management, and change management, employing interactive teaching methods. It was funded by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and the EU Customs Fund. Participants expressed significant benefits and pledged to apply the learned knowledge to their practical work. This initiative contributes to capacity building within Palestinian Customs.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos SAFE Framework Enhances Global Supply Chain Security

Wcos SAFE Framework Enhances Global Supply Chain Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Conference reviewed the implementation of the SAFE Framework and planned for future development. The conference focused on data strategies, green customs, capacity building, and border coordination. The aim is to build a secure and efficient global trade system. Discussions centered on enhancing supply chain security, promoting trade facilitation, and leveraging data to improve customs operations. The conference emphasized the importance of international collaboration and innovation in addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in global trade.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Data Analytics Boosts Customs Trade Efficiency and Security

Data Analytics Boosts Customs Trade Efficiency and Security

The 215th/216th sessions of the WCO Permanent Technical Committee (PTC) highlighted the pivotal role of data analysis in modern customs operations. Discussions focused on leveraging big data and innovative technologies to optimize trade facilitation, risk management, supply chain security, and customs-tax cooperation. This charted a course for the future development of customs, emphasizing data analysis as a new engine driving trade facilitation and security. The meeting underscored the importance of data-driven insights for enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in customs administration.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Niger Customs Modernizes HR to Boost Collaboration

Niger Customs Modernizes HR to Boost Collaboration

With the support of the WCO-WACAM project, Niger Customs has initiated a human resources modernization transformation. Through change management and communication activities, it aims to increase awareness and support for modernization both internally and externally. By establishing a competency-based HRM system, Niger Customs seeks to improve work efficiency and employee quality, promote economic development, and provide a reference for other developing countries. This initiative highlights the importance of investing in human capital for effective customs administration and national development.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCOWACAM Project Boosts Customs HRM in West and Central Africa

WCOWACAM Project Boosts Customs HRM in West and Central Africa

WCO, in collaboration with WACAM, is developing customs HRM experts in West and Central Africa to enhance management capabilities. Through training and practical exercises, the initiative aims to build a regional think tank, fostering customs modernization. This partnership strengthens regional cooperation and promotes efficient customs practices, ultimately contributing to improved trade facilitation and economic development within the region. The focus is on equipping customs officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage human resources and implement modern customs procedures.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Eastsouthern Africa Customs Officials Tackle Transfer Pricing

Eastsouthern Africa Customs Officials Tackle Transfer Pricing

A joint workshop by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the OECD aimed to enhance the expertise of customs officials in East and Southern Africa on transfer pricing and customs valuation. The initiative promotes regional customs cooperation, maintains fair trade practices, and combats tax evasion. By strengthening the capacity of customs administrations in these areas, the workshop supports efforts to ensure accurate valuation of goods and prevent illicit financial flows, ultimately contributing to a more transparent and equitable global trading system.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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