Eswatini Customs Modernizes Through Skills Training

Eswatini Customs Modernizes Through Skills Training

The Eswatini Revenue Authority (SRA), in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), undertook a people development diagnostic mission to develop a competency-based customs talent development strategy, aiming to enhance customs modernization. The SRA is committed to adopting relevant management principles and implementing a plan encompassing key elements such as competency model development, job analysis, recruitment and training, and performance management. This initiative is designed to promote trade facilitation and economic development within Eswatini.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Islands Boost Customs Skills Via WCOJICA Training

Pacific Islands Boost Customs Skills Via WCOJICA Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) joint project's Mentor Training Programme (MTP) has been successfully implemented in Pacific Island Countries. By training local trainers, the program builds sustainable customs capacity and enhances the expertise of customs officers in the areas of Customs Valuation (CV) and the Harmonized System (HS). This initiative provides strong support for regional economic development by strengthening customs administration and promoting efficient trade facilitation.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Survey Highlights Trade Facilitation Trends in Customs

Global Survey Highlights Trade Facilitation Trends in Customs

The first International Survey on Customs Administration (ISOCA) report, jointly released by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), analyzes the customs administration performance, characteristics, practices, and structural foundations of 51 countries and regions. The report aims to promote trade facilitation, strengthen international cooperation, and improve customs management. It also provides a reference for businesses to understand the customs environment of various countries, reduce trade risks, and improve customs clearance efficiency.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Belgium Trains Francophone Africa in Trade Facilitation

Belgium Trains Francophone Africa in Trade Facilitation

In 2016, the Belgian Customs Academy provided training to 20 customs officers from French-speaking Africa and organized a visit to the WCO headquarters. Through lectures and field visits, participants gained a deeper understanding of the WCO's operations and strategic directions. They learned about trade facilitation, capacity building, and other relevant topics. This training aimed to improve customs management in Africa and contribute to trade facilitation efforts in the region, ultimately fostering economic development.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Body Warns of Rising Smuggling Threats

Global Customs Body Warns of Rising Smuggling Threats

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released its latest 'Smuggling Trends Report,' providing an in-depth analysis of illicit trade dynamics and trends, offering risk alerts and compliance guidance for businesses. The report emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in helping businesses identify vulnerabilities, strengthen supply chain security, and maintain global trade stability. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding evolving smuggling patterns and implementing proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with illegal trade activities.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Madagascar Boosts Trade with Wcosupported AEO Program

Madagascar Boosts Trade with Wcosupported AEO Program

A World Customs Organization (WCO) expert team visited Madagascar to assist its customs administration in implementing the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. The goal is to enhance supply chain security and efficiency, thereby promoting trade facilitation. The mission covered AEO simplified procedures, customs support measures, standards and benefits, and international best practices. This initiative aims to bring new highlights to Madagascar's customs management and lay the foundation for the country's sustainable economic development.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Postal Services Boost Crossborder Trade Efficiency

Customs Postal Services Boost Crossborder Trade Efficiency

The WCO-UPU Joint Guidelines assist customs and postal administrations in developing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). By clarifying responsibilities, optimizing processes, enhancing information sharing, and strengthening coordinated inspections, the guidelines aim to achieve efficient customs clearance and promote cross-border trade. The guidelines emphasize tailoring cooperation models to national circumstances and establishing continuous evaluation mechanisms. This framework fosters a collaborative environment, leading to streamlined procedures and improved security within the international supply chain.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verdes Trade Facilitation Model Gains Global Praise

Cape Verdes Trade Facilitation Model Gains Global Praise

Cabo Verde, with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), has significantly improved its trade facilitation by effectively implementing the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) measures through effective stakeholder engagement. A Time Release Study (TRS) played a crucial role. The innovative practices of Cabo Verde Customs in stakeholder engagement are worthy of emulation. The country's success highlights the importance of collaboration and strategic implementation for achieving trade efficiency and economic growth.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burundi Enhances Trade with Wcos Kyoto Convention Update

Burundi Enhances Trade with Wcos Kyoto Convention Update

The WCO assisted Burundi in acceding to the RKC Agreement, streamlining customs procedures and enhancing trade efficiency. This simplification aims to improve the business environment and promote economic development within Burundi. By adopting the RKC standards, Burundi is working towards faster and more predictable customs clearance, ultimately reducing trade costs and attracting foreign investment. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to Burundi's integration into the global trading system and foster sustainable economic growth.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US and Americas Sign AEO Trade Pact to Boost Commerce

US and Americas Sign AEO Trade Pact to Boost Commerce

Eleven American countries signed an AEO mutual recognition agreement to facilitate cross-border trade and enhance supply chain security. This agreement, a key initiative under the WCO framework, aims to simplify customs clearance and reduce trade costs through collaboration between customs and the private sector, potentially boosting regional trade growth. Challenges include standard harmonization, information sharing, and capacity building. The future development direction of the AEO program lies in intelligence, automation, and sustainability.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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