Japanfunded Project Enhances Pacific Islands Disaster Customs Response

Japanfunded Project Enhances Pacific Islands Disaster Customs Response

Funded by the Japanese government through the WCO COVID-19 Project, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop to enhance the capacity of Pacific Island countries' customs administrations to expedite the clearance of relief goods during natural disasters and other emergencies. The workshop fostered international cooperation, promoted regulatory updates and process optimization, and improved the professional skills of customs officers. This initiative aims to build a robust barrier for the region to cope with potential future natural disasters by strengthening customs' ability to respond effectively.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Morocco Boosts Customs AI with SECOWCO Backing

Morocco Boosts Customs AI with SECOWCO Backing

Morocco has launched the second phase of the SECO-WCO Trade Facilitation Programme, leveraging AI to enhance customs risk management and trade facilitation. The project aims to improve efficiency and security in cross-border trade through intelligent systems and data analysis. The World Customs Organization (WCO) is providing technical support to Morocco in implementing these advanced technologies and best practices. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce trade costs and improve the overall competitiveness of the Moroccan economy by streamlining customs procedures and minimizing delays.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Revenue Authority Modernizes Talent Management for Efficiency

Lesotho Revenue Authority Modernizes Talent Management for Efficiency

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) is implementing a competency-based human resource management system in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to enhance operational efficiency and tax revenue. WCO workshops and capacity-building support are helping LRA staff acquire modern HR management skills and develop action plans. With strong commitment from LRA leadership, talent management is poised to be a key driver in the tax department's transformation. This initiative signifies a significant step towards modernizing the LRA and improving its ability to meet its revenue collection goals.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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World Customs Organization Outlines Global Trade Strategy

World Customs Organization Outlines Global Trade Strategy

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is shaping the future of global trade for 2022-2025 through strategic foresight. Leveraging regional workshops, the WCO gathers insights from its members to explore emerging trends, risks, and opportunities. The methodology and key elements of strategic foresight, contributions from the OECD and the EU, and the future global vision and actions are all contributing to shaping the future of customs. This proactive approach aims to equip customs administrations to navigate the evolving landscape of international commerce and ensure effective border management in a dynamic world.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Ukraine Customs Academy Becomes Key EU Officer Training Hub

Ukraine Customs Academy Becomes Key EU Officer Training Hub

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has established a European Regional Training Center in Ukraine to enhance the capacity of customs officials in the European region, promoting trade facilitation and security. The Ukrainian Customs Academy was designated as the location for the training center, and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the WCO. The center will provide high-quality training courses covering various aspects of customs management, helping European customs administrations address international trade challenges and build efficient and secure customs systems. This initiative strengthens regional cooperation and supports effective customs practices.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Peru Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Reform

Peru Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Reform

The SECO-WCO GTFP provided technical assistance to Peruvian Customs for implementing a Time Release Study (TRS). The aim was to enhance Peruvian Customs' capacity through WCO methodology training, procedure review, and software training, identifying bottlenecks and optimizing processes. The successful TRS pilot paved the way for national implementation, potentially improving Peru's trade facilitation and international competitiveness. This initiative highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making in trade facilitation. The study focused on identifying areas where customs procedures could be streamlined to reduce clearance times and improve overall efficiency.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Leads HR Modernization in West Africa

Gambia Revenue Authority Leads HR Modernization in West Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, is supporting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in implementing a competency-based human resource management model. A WCO expert team reviewed GRA's HR management tools and provided recommendations for improvement and an implementation plan. GRA is expected to become a benchmark in human resource management in the West and Central African region, offering valuable lessons for other countries. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency and effectiveness within the GRA through strategic human resource development.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Bahamas in establishing a commodity classification advance ruling system to enhance trade facilitation. Through national workshops and technical assistance, the WCO assists the Bahamas Customs in its modernization efforts, establishing a pre-ruling system to resolve trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and promote economic development. While challenges exist in establishing the advance ruling system, the WCO's support and cooperation will help the Bahamas achieve its trade facilitation goals. This initiative aims to create a more predictable and efficient trade environment for businesses operating in the Bahamas.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Americas Caribbean Push Gender Equality Diversity

Customs Americas Caribbean Push Gender Equality Diversity

In September 2021, SECO and WCO jointly organized a virtual forum on Gender Equality and Diversity for the Americas and the Caribbean, bringing together over 80 representatives from 24 countries. The forum aimed to promote gender equality and inclusion in customs administration. Discussions focused on work-life balance and the prevention of gender-based violence. The Spanish version of the WCO Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT) was launched. Participants agreed to integrate gender equality and diversity into the customs agenda and continue their efforts in this area.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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HS Convention at 25 Data Shapes Global Trades Future

HS Convention at 25 Data Shapes Global Trades Future

The World Customs Organization (WCO) celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Harmonized System Convention, highlighting the HS's central role and future development in international trade. As a universal language for global trade, the HS simplifies trade processes and enhances efficiency. The WCO is actively conducting strategic reviews to ensure the HS adapts to new trade patterns and technological advancements. It also encourages greater participation from developing countries in HS-related activities, fostering a more inclusive and responsive global trade environment. This ensures the HS remains relevant and effective in facilitating international commerce.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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