Thailand Sierra Leone Join Revised Kyoto Convention Enhancing Global Trade

Thailand Sierra Leone Join Revised Kyoto Convention Enhancing Global Trade

The Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) has surpassed 100 contracting parties, with Thailand and Sierra Leone's accession further boosting global trade facilitation. The convention aims to simplify and harmonize customs procedures by applying information technology and risk management, improving customs efficiency and reducing trade costs. The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively promotes the RKC's implementation and encourages more members to join, fostering global trade prosperity. The growing number of signatories demonstrates the international commitment to streamlined customs processes and enhanced trade efficiency.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts New Project Management System

Gambia Revenue Authority Adopts New Project Management System

The Gambia Revenue Authority, with WCO support, developed a project management methodology to improve project efficiency, standardize processes, reduce risks, and optimize resource allocation. This initiative aims to enhance the Authority's ability to effectively manage and deliver projects related to tax reform and revenue collection. By implementing a structured approach, the GRA seeks to improve accountability, transparency, and ultimately, its overall performance in achieving its strategic objectives. The project management framework will also facilitate better coordination and communication among different departments and stakeholders.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Iran Adopts Wcobacked Audit System to Boost Customs Efficiency

Iran Adopts Wcobacked Audit System to Boost Customs Efficiency

The WCO held a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) workshop in Iran to assist the country in introducing PCA concepts, improving the efficiency of customs controls, and optimizing the trade environment. The workshop aimed to enhance Iran's capacity in conducting effective post-clearance audits, which are crucial for ensuring compliance with customs regulations and facilitating legitimate trade. By adopting PCA, Iran can streamline its customs procedures, reduce delays, and promote a more transparent and predictable trading system, ultimately contributing to trade facilitation.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EU Customs Lab Trains Bosnia in Revenue Protection Techniques

EU Customs Lab Trains Bosnia in Revenue Protection Techniques

The European Regional Customs Laboratory (RCL) provided practical training to the Customs Administration of Bosnia and Herzegovina, enhancing their capabilities in commodity sampling and identification to combat smuggling and fraud, and safeguard national revenue. The training combined theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, interpreting the SAMANCTA sampling guidelines and conducting on-site drills within enterprises. The WCO continuously supports customs capacity building, aiming to foster a more efficient and secure global trade environment. This initiative strengthens customs operations and contributes to economic stability.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Nations Unite on Ecommerce Rules During Pandemic

Asiapacific Nations Unite on Ecommerce Rules During Pandemic

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop for Asia-Pacific members, focusing on the effective implementation of the E-Commerce Framework of Standards (E-Commerce FoS) to address challenges arising from the pandemic-accelerated growth of e-commerce. The meeting covered topics such as advance electronic data, data exchange, tax collection, cooperation & coordination, and technology applications. The aim was to promote trade facilitation, ensure effective customs control and revenue collection, and foster the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Agencies Prioritize Workforce Resilience

Global Customs Agencies Prioritize Workforce Resilience

The World Customs Organization (WCO) hosted a webinar focusing on enhancing customs resilience through human capital development. Key areas discussed included organizational culture, working models, skills enhancement, and digital transformation. The webinar provided strategic guidance and practical experiences for customs administrators worldwide, aiming to improve human resource management practices within customs administrations globally. It emphasized the importance of investing in people to build stronger, more adaptable customs organizations capable of navigating evolving challenges and contributing to global trade security and facilitation.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Nations Strengthen Customs Cooperation Against Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

Asiapacific Nations Strengthen Customs Cooperation Against Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Asia-Pacific customs administrations in upgrading their plastic waste management. Through virtual diagnostics, tailored implementation plans were developed for Indonesia and the Philippines. A regional workshop is planned to strengthen cooperation in addressing the challenge of 'foreign waste' and protecting the blue skies of the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aims to enhance customs enforcement capabilities and ensure compliance with the Basel Convention, ultimately combating the illegal trade and improper disposal of plastic waste.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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North Macedonia Customs Boosts Efficiency with Wcobacked Reforms

North Macedonia Customs Boosts Efficiency with Wcobacked Reforms

The WCO (World Customs Organization) is assisting North Macedonia Customs in enhancing leadership capabilities. This initiative focuses on reshaping the management culture, optimizing operational processes, and fostering a learning organization. The goal is to drive positive transformation within the customs administration, ultimately leading to improved efficiency and effectiveness. Key aspects include developing strong leadership skills at all levels, building cohesive and collaborative teams, and implementing modern management practices. This comprehensive approach aims to create a more agile and responsive customs service.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Boosted by Customs Phytosanitary Agency Collaboration

Global Trade Boosted by Customs Phytosanitary Agency Collaboration

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively promotes cooperation between customs and phytosanitary agencies to enhance trade facilitation. By sharing information, coordinating enforcement, and fostering technological innovation, countries can build more efficient and secure border management systems, promoting global trade prosperity. The Republic of Korea's practices offer valuable lessons for other nations seeking to improve border management and streamline trade processes. This collaborative approach is crucial for balancing trade facilitation with the need to protect plant health and ensure safe trade flows.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Boosts Trade Facilitation with SECOWCO Customs Reform

Moldova Boosts Trade Facilitation with SECOWCO Customs Reform

Moldova hosted a SECO-WCO trade facilitation project workshop, focusing on enhancing customs strategic alignment and performance evaluation. The workshop aimed to contribute to customs modernization by improving efficiency and effectiveness. Participants discussed best practices and strategies for streamlining customs procedures and measuring performance. This initiative underscores the importance of international cooperation in promoting trade facilitation and supporting customs authorities in their modernization efforts. The workshop provided a platform for knowledge sharing and capacity building, ultimately contributing to Moldova's economic development.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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