Sudan Customs Overhauls HR to Boost Trade Efficiency

Sudan Customs Overhauls HR to Boost Trade Efficiency

With the assistance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Sudanese Customs has launched a Human Resources modernization project. This initiative aims to enhance the professionalism and efficiency of the customs workforce by establishing a competency-based management system. The goal is to better serve national economic development and international trade security. The project encompasses assessing the current management situation, developing practical tools, formulating a roadmap, and providing ongoing expert support. This comprehensive approach seeks to transform HR practices within Sudanese Customs.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Pioneers Customs Modernization in West Africa

Gambia Revenue Authority Pioneers Customs Modernization in West Africa

Supported by the Swedish-funded WACAM project, The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) is pioneering the WCO-promoted competency-based HRM model in West and Central Africa. By reviewing key HRM tools and strengthening institutional capacity, GRA aims to become a regional benchmark, leading industry development and providing valuable experience and lessons for other customs agencies. This initiative represents a significant step towards modernized customs administration and enhanced talent management within the region, potentially setting a new standard for customs operations.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Advance Cargo Declarations Speed Up Global Customs Clearance

Advance Cargo Declarations Speed Up Global Customs Clearance

This paper delves into the significance of advance declaration and fast release mechanisms for goods, highlighting their crucial role in accelerating customs clearance, reducing costs, and improving efficiency. It elaborates on the key elements for implementing advance declaration and introduces relevant tools and guidelines from the World Customs Organization (WCO). The paper concludes by summarizing the multifaceted benefits of advance declaration for businesses, customs authorities, and nations, advocating for its widespread adoption to foster a new paradigm in global trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos Mercator Program Boosts Palestinian Trade Efficiency

Wcos Mercator Program Boosts Palestinian Trade Efficiency

The WCO commended Palestine's Mercator Program for its contributions to customs modernization and trade facilitation, supporting the implementation of the WTO Agreement. The WCO expressed its anticipation for deepened cooperation to further promote Palestine's economic development. The Mercator Program has significantly aided in streamlining customs procedures, reducing trade costs, and enhancing the overall efficiency of cross-border trade, aligning with international standards and best practices. The WCO looks forward to continued collaboration to build upon these achievements and foster sustainable economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Summit Stresses Trade Resilience Cooperation

Asiapacific Customs Summit Stresses Trade Resilience Cooperation

The 25th WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Conference successfully concluded in Sydney, focusing on the theme of 'Customs Engaging Purposefully with Traditional and New Partners,' emphasizing international supply chain resilience. The conference reviewed the implementation of the regional strategic plan, approved a new strategic plan, endorsed a draft WCO resolution supporting enhanced Customs-industry resilience, and approved the establishment of a WCO Regional Training Center in Cambodia. This marks a new chapter for customs cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Adds Spanish Arabic to Professional Standards for Global Customs

WCO Adds Spanish Arabic to Professional Standards for Global Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) announced the addition of Spanish and Arabic versions to its PICARD Professional Standards, aiming to enhance the professional capabilities of customs officers worldwide and facilitate international trade. The WCO expressed gratitude to the University of Costa Rica and the Saudi Customs for their translation support. The WCO will continue to promote the standards to support global customs capacity building initiatives. This expansion ensures wider accessibility and implementation of best practices in customs administration across diverse linguistic regions.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Agencies Pledge Faster Disaster Relief Clearance

Global Customs Agencies Pledge Faster Disaster Relief Clearance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) pledged to expedite customs clearance for disaster relief goods at the World Humanitarian Summit, emphasizing communication, coordination, and protection. The WCO will gather experiences, provide training, and launch an assistance project in West Africa. The Secretary General called for international cooperation to build an efficient and reliable global humanitarian relief system, leveraging data analysis to improve rescue efficiency. The WCO aims to streamline processes and foster collaboration to ensure aid reaches those in need quickly and effectively during times of crisis.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Survey Aims to Fasttrack Tech Adoption

Global Customs Survey Aims to Fasttrack Tech Adoption

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a global survey to assess the application of disruptive technologies in customs, identify capacity-building needs, and promote the exchange of experiences. The survey results will update the 'WCO/WTO Study Report on Disruptive Technologies,' providing guidance for customs' digital transformation. The WCO encourages member administrations to actively participate and collectively shape the future of customs. This initiative aims to understand the impact of emerging technologies and help customs administrations leverage them effectively for improved efficiency and security.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Qatar Customs Enhances Workforce Training for Global Edge

Qatar Customs Enhances Workforce Training for Global Edge

To enhance competitiveness, Qatar Customs invited the WCO to conduct a workshop focused on improving management capabilities and optimizing talent planning, development, and performance evaluation. Participants learned the importance of competency-based job descriptions through the WCO framework and recognized the crucial role of fostering a positive work environment. Moving forward, Qatar Customs will deepen its collaboration with the WCO to continuously improve its human resource management practices. The workshop aimed to equip managers with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective leadership and employee development.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic of Antigua and Barbuda Customs to enhance trade facilitation. Through observation and discussions, the WCO assessed the current state of PCA implementation and provided recommendations for improvement. Moving forward, the WCO will continue to collaborate, assisting Antigua and Barbuda Customs in refining risk management, data analysis, personnel training, and IT systems. This includes strengthening cooperation with the private sector to promote trade development. The goal is to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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