Wcos 2021 SAFE Framework Enhances Global Trade Security

Wcos 2021 SAFE Framework Enhances Global Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework 2021 has been officially released, adding a core element of cooperation between customs and other government agencies, and revising content such as smart security devices and mutual recognition arrangements. It aims to enhance supply chain security, efficiency, and transparency, reduce trade costs, and promote global trade facilitation and sustainable development. The updated framework emphasizes collaboration and technology to improve the overall security and flow of goods across international borders.

Togo Customs AEO Program Boosts Trade Meets Global Standards

Togo Customs AEO Program Boosts Trade Meets Global Standards

Togo, with WCO support, is developing an AEO program to enhance trade facilitation. It faces challenges in compliance, regulation, and mutual recognition. The goal is to become a trade hub in West Africa. The AEO program aims to streamline customs procedures, reduce inspection rates for trusted traders, and improve overall efficiency in the supply chain. Success will depend on effective implementation and collaboration with regional and international partners. This initiative is crucial for Togo's economic growth and competitiveness.

Wcos Revised Kyoto Convention Boosts Global Customs Efficiency

Wcos Revised Kyoto Convention Boosts Global Customs Efficiency

The WCO is actively promoting the review of the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC). The meeting reviewed the revision plan, discussed the direction of advancement, and emphasized cooperation in addressing global trade challenges. The participants expressed their expectation that the RKC will promote trade facilitation. The discussions focused on how the RKC can be further modernized and adapted to the evolving needs of international trade, ensuring its continued relevance and effectiveness in streamlining customs procedures and promoting economic growth worldwide.

Asiapacific Customs Centers Adapt to Remote Learning Hurdles

Asiapacific Customs Centers Adapt to Remote Learning Hurdles

The Asia Pacific Customs Training Center (APCTC) conference explored remote training during the pandemic. Experiences were shared from China (VR), Fiji (online platforms), Hong Kong (interactive methods), and India (MOOCs). The World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized the importance of data analysis in remote training programs. The conference highlighted innovative approaches and the crucial role of technology in maintaining customs capacity building efforts throughout the Asia Pacific region despite travel restrictions and other challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Peru Boosts Customs Oversight with Global Partnerships

Peru Boosts Customs Oversight with Global Partnerships

Peru Customs, with support from the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, held a virtual forum focusing on optimizing customs valuation risk management. Participating countries shared experiences and discussed database construction, value verification processes, and private sector engagement. Based on this, Peru Customs developed an action plan to strengthen value verification and deepen cooperation with the private sector. The World Customs Organization will continue to provide support to enhance transparency and predictability in cross-border trade.

WCOUPU Committee Strengthens Trade Oversight for Crossborder Commerce

WCOUPU Committee Strengthens Trade Oversight for Crossborder Commerce

The WCO-UPU Liaison Committee plans to remove observer number limits to enhance openness and inclusivity, fostering broader participation and deeper exchange to address new cross-border trade challenges and promote global trade facilitation. This move aims to enhance the Committee's representativeness and expertise, leading to more effective cooperation and streamlined cross-border trade processes. By removing restrictions, the Committee hopes to encourage greater engagement from relevant stakeholders and contribute to a more efficient and collaborative international trade environment.

Asiapacific Introduces Global Ecommerce Standards

Asiapacific Introduces Global Ecommerce Standards

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released a cross-border e-commerce framework, with the Asia-Pacific region leading the implementation. This framework aims to harmonize regulatory policies across countries, streamline customs clearance, strengthen risk management and consumer protection, and promote the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce. Its implementation will make overseas online shopping more convenient and safer for consumers, facilitate business expansion into overseas markets, and improve the overall service level of the industry.

Global Customs Body Advocates Standard File Format for Trade Security

Global Customs Body Advocates Standard File Format for Trade Security

The WCO promotes the Unified File Format (UFF) to break down barriers in Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) data and build smart borders. It encourages testing of UFF 2.0 and planning for UFF 3.0, aiming to enhance the security and efficiency of global trade. This initiative facilitates seamless data exchange and interoperability, ultimately improving border control and risk management through standardized data formats and procedures. The UFF aims to streamline customs processes and foster greater collaboration among border agencies worldwide.

Central America Customs Modernized Under Global Trade Initiative

Central America Customs Modernized Under Global Trade Initiative

The WCO and SECO's GTFP project assists Central American countries in implementing the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), simplifying customs procedures, and promoting trade facilitation and economic growth. The project aims to streamline border processes, reduce transaction costs, and enhance the predictability and transparency of customs operations. By adopting the RKC standards, these countries can improve their competitiveness in the global market and attract foreign investment. This initiative contributes to regional integration and sustainable development by fostering a more efficient and effective trading environment.

Global Customs and Rights Holders Strengthen IP Protections

Global Customs and Rights Holders Strengthen IP Protections

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held its 9th Rights Holders Consultation Group Meeting, focusing on the current state of intellectual property infringement and discussing challenges such as IP protection in the e-commerce environment and environmentally sound disposal of infringing goods. The meeting emphasized strengthening cooperation between customs and rights holders, building information exchange platforms, and jointly combating counterfeit goods to maintain fair trade practices and promote global economic prosperity. This collaborative approach aims to effectively address IP infringements and safeguard legitimate trade.