Global Crackdown on Counterfeiting As Brands Customs Collaborate

Global Crackdown on Counterfeiting As Brands Customs Collaborate

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the French Manufacturers Association (UNIFAB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in combating counterfeit goods. Through information sharing, joint training, and the promotion of IPM tools, both parties aim to improve enforcement efficiency, protect consumer rights, and maintain market order. This collaboration addresses the challenges posed by the global trade in counterfeit goods, fostering a united front against this illicit activity.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Asiapacific Customs Expands Team with New Experts

Asiapacific Customs Expands Team with New Experts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia Pacific Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB A/P) welcomes new members from Korea and Hong Kong Customs, bolstering its regional cooperation capabilities. ROCB A/P is dedicated to enhancing the skills and capabilities of customs officials and organizations in the Asia Pacific region through capacity building activities, striving towards the vision of 'World-Class Customs'. Thai Customs provides significant support to the office.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Niger Enhances Trade Skills with WTO Workshop

Niger Enhances Trade Skills with WTO Workshop

In 2010, the WTO held a trade facilitation workshop in Niger to identify the country's needs and priorities through self-assessment. Experts from UNCTAD and WCO assisted in the workshop, enhancing Nigerien officials' awareness of international trade challenges and clarifying actions aligned with WTO principles. The workshop focused on customs issues, deepening participants' understanding of international trade and customs affairs, and contributing to Niger's integration into the global trading system.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked System to Speed Clearance

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked System to Speed Clearance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Bahamas Customs in establishing an advance ruling system for goods classification, aiming to facilitate trade, reduce clearance delays, and enhance trade predictability. This system will mitigate trade frictions by resolving classification disputes in advance, leading to economic growth and improved international reputation for the Bahamas. The advance ruling system will improve efficiency and transparency, contributing to a more streamlined and predictable trading environment.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
New Customs Rules Clarify Valuation of Franchise Royalties

New Customs Rules Clarify Valuation of Franchise Royalties

The new WCO regulations clarify that franchise and brand royalties are not included in customs valuation if they are not directly related to the imported goods. Businesses need to understand the criteria for determining this direct relationship to minimize trade costs. This clarification provides greater certainty and potentially reduces the customs duties payable on imported goods where franchise or brand royalties are involved but are unrelated to the specific characteristics or production of those goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Jordan Faces Trade Hurdles Gains Under WTO Pact

Jordan Faces Trade Hurdles Gains Under WTO Pact

Jordan, under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, is leveraging the WCO Mercator Programme to advance customs pre-arrival rulings, border management, and other trade facilitation measures. Full implementation of the TFA is crucial for the Jordanian economy. The Mercator Programme supports Jordan in modernizing its customs procedures and aligning them with international standards, ultimately aiming to reduce trade costs and improve efficiency. This will enhance Jordan's competitiveness and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Asiapacific Customs Enhance Remote Training Through Regional Collaboration

Asiapacific Customs Enhance Remote Training Through Regional Collaboration

The 19th Heads of WCO Regional Training Centers in Asia Pacific Conference focused on customs capacity building under the pandemic, exploring distance learning strategies, professional development, and data analytics applications. Various centers shared their experiences, emphasizing collaboration to jointly address challenges and promote customs modernization in the Asia-Pacific region. The meeting highlighted the importance of adapting training methods and leveraging technology to ensure continued professional development for customs officers during and after the pandemic.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Americas Caribbean Customs Agencies Push Gender Equality at Forum

Americas Caribbean Customs Agencies Push Gender Equality at Forum

The Americas and Caribbean Customs Virtual Forum focused on gender equality and diversity, bringing together representatives from 24 countries. They shared experiences, discussed challenges, and launched the Spanish version of the WCO Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT). The forum aims to promote progress in gender equality within customs administrations and integrate it into the customs agenda. This initiative lays the foundation for building a more equitable and inclusive customs environment across the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Wcos Updated Data Model Boosts Digital Trade Efficiency

Wcos Updated Data Model Boosts Digital Trade Efficiency

The WCO has released Data Model 3.10.0, supporting various data exchanges and ensuring backward compatibility. It aims to facilitate the digitalization of cross-border trade, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs. This update provides a standardized framework for data communication between stakeholders involved in international trade, promoting seamless information sharing and streamlined processes. By adopting this model, businesses and governments can optimize their trade operations, leading to faster clearance times and reduced administrative burdens.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Sudan Boosts Customs Security to Spur Economic Growth

Sudan Boosts Customs Security to Spur Economic Growth

Sudan Customs, with the support of the WCO, organized a risk management workshop aimed at enhancing risk management capabilities. The workshop focused on establishing target centers and selective inspection systems. This initiative is crucial for improving customs efficiency and security by enabling Sudan Customs to better identify and manage potential risks associated with trade. The WCO's support underscores the importance of international collaboration in strengthening customs administrations and promoting effective risk management practices.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More