ADB and WTO Partner to Enhance Global Trade Facilitation

ADB and WTO Partner to Enhance Global Trade Facilitation

The President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) visited the World Customs Organization (WCO) headquarters, engaging in in-depth discussions on the global economic situation, Sustainable Development Goals, international technical issues, regional integration, and the current trade environment. Both parties pledged to deepen cooperation to jointly address global trade challenges and promote trade facilitation. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration between the ADB and WCO in navigating the evolving global trade landscape and fostering sustainable economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
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
Read More
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
Read More
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
Read More
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
Read More
Global Customs Body Stresses Air Cargo Security Collaboration

Global Customs Body Stresses Air Cargo Security Collaboration

The World Customs Organization (WCO) attended the International Air Cargo Forum, focusing on industry challenges and opportunities while emphasizing cooperation and security. The forum covered topics such as cybersecurity, e-commerce, PLACI, and new EU regulations. The WCO presented its tools and measures for trade facilitation and security, and highlighted its collaboration with ICAO on an action plan. The LEADS initiative provides a platform for industry leaders to discuss key challenges facing the air cargo industry, promoting global trade prosperity.

01/05/2026 Logistics
Read More
New Framework Aims to Boost Gender Equality in Global Trade

New Framework Aims to Boost Gender Equality in Global Trade

During the 2019 WTO Global Review of Aid for Trade, the WCO co-organized a side event focusing on gender mainstreaming in trade facilitation. The meeting highlighted the importance of gender equality, revealing barriers to women's participation in trade. Experiences from the EU and Uganda were shared, and the WCO presented its tools and initiatives to promote gender equality and diversity in customs. This event laid the groundwork for future efforts to promote gender equality within Aid for Trade initiatives.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Peru Customs Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Data Analytics

Peru Customs Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Data Analytics

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a data analysis workshop for Peruvian Customs to enhance trade facilitation. The workshop introduced key techniques for data collection, classification, and validation. It highlighted the application of data analysis in risk identification and trade compliance assessment. Peruvian Customs expressed appreciation for the event and discussed future cooperation with the WCO to strengthen data analysis capabilities and promote trade development. The aim is to leverage data insights for improved efficiency and security in customs operations.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Moldova Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs System Upgrade

Moldova Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs System Upgrade

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, Moldovan Customs held a workshop on strategic planning and performance evaluation to enhance strategic alignment, governance, and accountability. Participants utilized tools like PESTLE and SWOT analysis to develop strategic objectives and KPIs. The WCO will continue to provide support, assisting Moldovan Customs in becoming a new engine for efficient trade. The workshop aimed to improve customs operations through better planning and performance measurement, ultimately contributing to increased trade facilitation and economic growth in Moldova.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Moldova Advances Customs Reform with SECOWCO Aid Targets 2026 TRS

Moldova Advances Customs Reform with SECOWCO Aid Targets 2026 TRS

Moldova, with the support of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, held a virtual Time Release Study (TRS) workshop to assess clearance times and develop a national implementation roadmap. The goal is to complete the TRS report by January 2026, covering import and export processes, and to make it available to all stakeholders. The WCO pledged continued technical support to help Moldova improve trade facilitation and promote economic development. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to streamline border procedures.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More