World Customs Organization Backs Ocean Conservation on UN Oceans Day

World Customs Organization Backs Ocean Conservation on UN Oceans Day

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively participates in UN World Oceans Day, highlighting the crucial role of customs in protecting the marine environment. Through enforcing multilateral environmental agreements, developing trade tools, and strengthening international cooperation, the WCO is committed to combating the illegal trade of plastic waste and promoting sustainable ocean development. Regional collaborations, such as the Asia Pacific Plastic Waste Project, serve as exemplary models for enhancing customs enforcement capabilities and building a global network for ocean protection.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zambia Boosts Trade with Wcos AEO Program Backing

Zambia Boosts Trade with Wcos AEO Program Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in establishing an internationally compliant Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to enhance trade facilitation in Zambia. Through expert support, on-site validation, and capacity building, the WCO assists the ZRA in optimizing customs procedures, promoting regional cooperation, and providing more development opportunities for Zambian businesses. The AEO program aims to streamline processes, reduce delays, and improve security, ultimately benefiting both the Zambian economy and international trade.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Abu Dhabi Adopts Blockchain to Boost Trade Security Efficiency

Abu Dhabi Adopts Blockchain to Boost Trade Security Efficiency

WCO visited Abu Dhabi Customs to examine its blockchain application and learn about its digital transformation experience. The focus was on the TradeChain platform and explorations in cross-border e-commerce. The WCO suggested strengthening international cooperation in these areas. The visit highlighted the potential of blockchain to streamline customs processes and facilitate trade. Abu Dhabi Customs' advancements serve as a valuable case study for other customs administrations seeking to leverage technology for improved efficiency and security.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Southern Africa Enhances Customs Valuation Via WCOJICA Initiative

Southern Africa Enhances Customs Valuation Via WCOJICA Initiative

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly implementing the Customs Valuation (CV) Master Trainer Program (MTP) to create a professional and sustainable pool of CV trainers in Southern Africa. The third working group activity focused on developing training materials and enhancing practical skills. The WCO and JICA are committed to continuously supporting customs capacity building in the region, building an efficient and transparent customs valuation system, and promoting trade development.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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East Africa Trade Project Ends Strengthens Regional Ties

East Africa Trade Project Ends Strengthens Regional Ties

With the support of WCO and JICA, five East African countries successfully completed a trade facilitation and border control capacity development project. Focusing on One-Stop Border Post operations and customs capacity building, the project significantly improved trade efficiency and border control levels in the East African region. The WCO Secretary General praised East Africa's experience, encouraging its sharing with other African regions. He also emphasized the continued support for customs capacity building in Africa and Pacific Island countries.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos Clean Seas Initiative Tackles Asiapacific Plastic Waste

Wcos Clean Seas Initiative Tackles Asiapacific Plastic Waste

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Asia Pacific Border Management Waste Project, is assisting Indonesian and Philippine Customs in enhancing their control over plastic waste via virtual diagnostic missions. The project aims to strengthen Customs' ability to handle legal plastic waste imports, reduce the risk of illegal shipments, and raise awareness of the Basel Convention amendments. The WCO will provide customized implementation plans and host regional workshops to foster collaboration and address the challenges of plastic waste management.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Enhances Risk Management with WCOJICA Initiative

West Africa Enhances Risk Management with WCOJICA Initiative

The WCO/JICA Joint Project successfully completed a Master Trainer Program in West Africa, training 18 experts in risk management and intelligence analysis for customs administrations in six countries, including Benin and Burkina Faso. Through working groups, regional training material development, and virtual training, the project significantly enhanced customs risk management capabilities in the West African region and promoted regional cooperation and sustainable development. The WCO and JICA will continue to support customs capacity building in West Africa.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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
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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
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Malaysia Boosts Customs with Wcobacked Origin Ruling System

Malaysia Boosts Customs with Wcobacked Origin Ruling System

The WCO is assisting Malaysia in accelerating the development of its advance ruling system for Rules of Origin. This initiative aims to enhance trade facilitation, optimize regulatory procedures, and improve predictability for businesses. By strengthening customs capacity and streamlining processes related to origin determination, Malaysia can benefit from increased trade flows and a more efficient and transparent customs environment. The support from the WCO is crucial in enabling Malaysia to effectively implement and utilize advance rulings, contributing to overall economic growth and competitiveness.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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