WCO Supports Paraguays Datadriven Customs Reform

WCO Supports Paraguays Datadriven Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Paraguay's National Customs Directorate (DNA) in developing a new five-year strategic plan to enhance decision-making and accelerate customs modernization through the creation of a management reporting system. A workshop brought together officials from various departments, focusing on strategic objectives, KPI development, and project alignment. The plan aims to improve operational efficiency, establish monitoring mechanisms, and enable data-driven decision-making, preparing Paraguayan Customs to adapt to global trade challenges.

WCO Establishes Global Ecommerce Trade Standards

WCO Establishes Global Ecommerce Trade Standards

The World Customs Organization (WCO) E-Commerce Working Group has finalized a comprehensive e-commerce package. This aims to promote the standardization, efficiency, and sustainability of global cross-border e-commerce through a standardized framework, technical specifications, and implementation strategies. The package covers various aspects, including terminology definitions, technical specifications, and tax collection. Following review by various committees, it is expected to be promoted and implemented globally, facilitating trade and harmonizing practices in the rapidly growing e-commerce sector.

WCO Strengthens Zambias Antiwildlife Trafficking Efforts

WCO Strengthens Zambias Antiwildlife Trafficking Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its INAMA project, supports Zambia Customs in enhancing its intelligence capabilities to combat the illegal trade in endangered species. A WCO expert team visited Zambia to provide strategic advice and technical assistance, covering intelligence gathering, analysis, dissemination, and risk management. This initiative aims to strengthen Zambia Customs' enforcement capabilities and contribute to global biodiversity conservation efforts. The project focuses on improving intelligence-led enforcement to effectively target and disrupt wildlife trafficking networks operating through Zambian borders.

Colombia Overhauls Customs with WCO Backing

Colombia Overhauls Customs with WCO Backing

The WCO assisted Colombia's DIAN in enhancing its strategic planning and project management capabilities. This collaboration resulted in a draft implementation plan for a management system, supporting the modernization and transformation of the Customs administration. The initiative aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness through better strategic alignment and project execution. The focus was on building internal capacity and developing a sustainable framework for future development.

WCO Supports Guineabissau Customs Modernization Efforts

WCO Supports Guineabissau Customs Modernization Efforts

Under the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, funded by the Swedish government, the World Customs Organization (WCO) supported Guinea-Bissau Customs in resource mobilization. Through training, Guinea-Bissau Customs enhanced its project planning capabilities, completing draft project proposals and a donor mapping exercise. The next step involves the WACAM project assisting the country in hosting a national donor roundtable conference to promote customs modernization. This initiative aims to secure funding and partnerships crucial for advancing customs reforms and efficiency in Guinea-Bissau.

WCO Subcommittee Tackles Chemical Trade Challenges

WCO Subcommittee Tackles Chemical Trade Challenges

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Scientific Sub-Committee, an advisory body to the Council, focuses on chemical and scientific matters. Its expert members provide scientific advice on issues like commodity classification, directly impacting tariffs, statistics, and facilitation in international trade. This ensures fairness, transparency, and efficiency within the global trading system. The sub-committee's work is crucial for harmonized and accurate application of customs procedures worldwide, supporting smooth and compliant international trade flows.

WCO Forum Outlines Postpandemic Customs Strategy

WCO Forum Outlines Postpandemic Customs Strategy

The inaugural meeting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Working Methods Forum (CWOF) was successfully held, bringing together global experts to discuss the transformation of customs working methods. The meeting clarified future work directions, emphasizing the importance of technology, personnel, and leadership. It also planned follow-up activities aimed at building a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable customs system. The forum highlighted the need for customs administrations to adapt to evolving global challenges and embrace innovative approaches to trade facilitation and border security.

Ghana Modernizes Customs with WCO Assistance

Ghana Modernizes Customs with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, supports the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in enhancing stakeholder engagement to foster a more transparent and efficient tax environment. Through training and pilot consultative committee meetings, the GRA strengthens its connections with businesses and the public, collaboratively addressing issues and improving service quality. This process culminates in an action plan to drive customs modernization. The initiative aims to build trust and cooperation, leading to a more effective and responsive customs administration in Ghana.

WCO Outlines Postpandemic Global Trade Strategy

WCO Outlines Postpandemic Global Trade Strategy

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Council Sessions focused on the recovery, transformation, and resilience of global trade in the post-pandemic era. Several resolutions were adopted, covering e-commerce, passenger flow management, cross-border vaccine transportation, and gender equality. The WCO is actively adapting to address challenges and embrace opportunities, aiming to build a more efficient, secure, and sustainable global trading system.

WCO Evaluates Ugandas CITES Enforcement Capabilities

WCO Evaluates Ugandas CITES Enforcement Capabilities

In 2017, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of the Uganda Revenue Authority's capacity to enforce the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The assessment utilized an institutional assessment tool, combined with field visits and interviews, aiming to enhance Uganda Customs' ability to combat illegal wildlife trade. The assessment findings will guide future cooperation between the WCO and the Uganda Revenue Authority, contributing to global biodiversity conservation efforts.