Wcos Harmonized Customs Terms Boost Global Trade Efficiency

Wcos Harmonized Customs Terms Boost Global Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization's (WCO) International Customs Terminology aims to establish unified customs terminology standards and facilitate international trade. It is recommended that all parties widely apply this interpretation, accurately cite it at the international level, and incorporate it into legislation and education. The WCO encourages all parties to provide timely feedback on implementation, jointly building a more prosperous global trade system. This standardization promotes clarity and efficiency in cross-border transactions, reducing ambiguity and fostering smoother international commerce.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos Clean Seas Initiative Tackles Asiapacific Plastic Waste

Wcos Clean Seas Initiative Tackles Asiapacific Plastic Waste

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Asia Pacific Border Management Waste Project, is assisting Indonesian and Philippine Customs in enhancing their control over plastic waste via virtual diagnostic missions. The project aims to strengthen Customs' ability to handle legal plastic waste imports, reduce the risk of illegal shipments, and raise awareness of the Basel Convention amendments. The WCO will provide customized implementation plans and host regional workshops to foster collaboration and address the challenges of plastic waste management.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Enhances Risk Management with WCOJICA Initiative

West Africa Enhances Risk Management with WCOJICA Initiative

The WCO/JICA Joint Project successfully completed a Master Trainer Program in West Africa, training 18 experts in risk management and intelligence analysis for customs administrations in six countries, including Benin and Burkina Faso. Through working groups, regional training material development, and virtual training, the project significantly enhanced customs risk management capabilities in the West African region and promoted regional cooperation and sustainable development. The WCO and JICA will continue to support customs capacity building in West Africa.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Body Cracks Down on Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

Global Customs Body Cracks Down on Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the importance of marine conservation on UN World Oceans Day, urging global attention to plastic waste pollution. The WCO combats illegal plastic waste trade and protects marine ecosystems through strengthened enforcement cooperation, promotion of green trade facilitation, enhanced environmental enforcement capabilities for customs officers, and active participation in international collaborations. These efforts aim to build a blue ecological barrier and protect our oceans from the detrimental effects of plastic pollution.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Namibia Adopts WTO Trade Facilitation Measures

Namibia Adopts WTO Trade Facilitation Measures

At the request of Namibia, the WCO assessed its implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), identifying both challenges and opportunities. The WCO will provide a report to support Namibia's modernization reforms. The assessment aims to help Namibia streamline its customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and improve its overall trade competitiveness. The WCO's support will be crucial in assisting Namibia to overcome obstacles and fully realize the benefits of the TFA, ultimately contributing to its economic growth and development.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ghana Customs Regains Control of Commodity Classification

Ghana Customs Regains Control of Commodity Classification

The Ghana Revenue Authority, with assistance from the World Customs Organization (WCO), is working to reclaim commodity classification rights from private inspection companies. This initiative aims to increase tax revenue, enhance customs expertise, and safeguard national economic sovereignty. The WCO provides technical and financial support through workshops and other means, assisting Ghana in establishing an autonomous and controllable tariff system. This effort serves as a model for other developing countries seeking to strengthen their customs capabilities and economic independence.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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World Customs Organization Backs Ocean Conservation on UN Oceans Day

World Customs Organization Backs Ocean Conservation on UN Oceans Day

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively participates in UN World Oceans Day, highlighting the crucial role of customs in protecting the marine environment. Through enforcing multilateral environmental agreements, developing trade tools, and strengthening international cooperation, the WCO is committed to combating the illegal trade of plastic waste and promoting sustainable ocean development. Regional collaborations, such as the Asia Pacific Plastic Waste Project, serve as exemplary models for enhancing customs enforcement capabilities and building a global network for ocean protection.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Madagascar Customs Boosts Classification Skills for Advance Ruling System

Madagascar Customs Boosts Classification Skills for Advance Ruling System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a capacity building workshop in Madagascar to enhance customs officers' skills in goods classification and lay the groundwork for the implementation of an advance ruling system. Funded by the EU-WCO Africa Coordination Programme, the workshop aimed to support the Madagascar Customs in establishing an advance ruling mechanism and promoting trade facilitation. The initiative is expected to improve the predictability and efficiency of customs procedures, ultimately benefiting businesses and contributing to economic growth.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zambia Boosts Trade with Wcos AEO Program Backing

Zambia Boosts Trade with Wcos AEO Program Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in establishing an internationally compliant Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to enhance trade facilitation in Zambia. Through expert support, on-site validation, and capacity building, the WCO assists the ZRA in optimizing customs procedures, promoting regional cooperation, and providing more development opportunities for Zambian businesses. The AEO program aims to streamline processes, reduce delays, and improve security, ultimately benefiting both the Zambian economy and international trade.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Abu Dhabi Adopts Blockchain to Boost Trade Security Efficiency

Abu Dhabi Adopts Blockchain to Boost Trade Security Efficiency

WCO visited Abu Dhabi Customs to examine its blockchain application and learn about its digital transformation experience. The focus was on the TradeChain platform and explorations in cross-border e-commerce. The WCO suggested strengthening international cooperation in these areas. The visit highlighted the potential of blockchain to streamline customs processes and facilitate trade. Abu Dhabi Customs' advancements serve as a valuable case study for other customs administrations seeking to leverage technology for improved efficiency and security.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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