WCO Boosts Cameroon Customs Import Valuation and Revenue

WCO Boosts Cameroon Customs Import Valuation and Revenue

The WCO assessed Cameroon's customs valuation system to help it comply with the WTO Agreement, enhance revenue collection, facilitate trade, and reduce trade frictions. The assessment likely identified areas for improvement and provided recommendations for strengthening the system and ensuring its alignment with international standards. This support aims to improve Cameroon's trade competitiveness and contribute to its economic development by fostering a more transparent and efficient customs environment.

Benin Customs Upgrades HR Systems with WCO Assistance

Benin Customs Upgrades HR Systems with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Benin Customs Administration in implementing a competency-based human resource management system, aiming to enhance customs administration in the region. Through the WCO-WACAM project, Benin Customs completed a job directory, competency inventory, and job descriptions, and developed a detailed work plan, laying the foundation for HR modernization. This initiative not only improves the quality of Benin Customs staff but also provides a reference for other African countries. This project contributes to strengthening customs efficiency and effectiveness.

Wcobacked Nicaragua AEO Program Enhances Trade Efficiency

Wcobacked Nicaragua AEO Program Enhances Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Nicaragua Customs in implementing an AEO pilot program aimed at improving customs clearance efficiency and reducing trade costs. Funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, the project focuses on participant selection, application process optimization, and enhanced external cooperation. AEO certification will provide companies with faster clearance times, lower inspection rates, and higher credibility, helping Nicaragua create a more attractive investment environment. The program is expected to boost trade and economic growth by streamlining customs procedures.

Niger Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Management

Niger Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Management

Niger Customs, with the support of the World Customs Organization, is implementing a competency-based human resource management system modernization. Through expert guidance, capacity building, and high-level support, they have completed the development of a job catalog, competency framework, and job descriptions. A future development blueprint has also been planned, aiming to improve the overall effectiveness of the customs administration. This initiative focuses on enhancing employee skills and aligning them with organizational goals to achieve customs modernization and improve service delivery.

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

The WCO assisted Uganda in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, enhancing customs capabilities. This support focused on optimizing strategic planning, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and risk management. A multi-year development plan was also formulated to guide Uganda Customs in its modernization efforts, streamlining processes and improving efficiency in line with international standards. The collaboration aims to facilitate trade and boost economic growth in Uganda through enhanced customs procedures and improved border management.

Global Alliance Strengthens Intellectual Property Protections

Global Alliance Strengthens Intellectual Property Protections

The 8th WCO Right Holders Consultation Group Meeting brought together global stakeholders to focus on maritime container supervision, intellectual property protection during the pandemic, and public-private partnerships. Right holders shared their experiences, and the WCO committed to strengthening international cooperation, improving laws and regulations, and raising public awareness to jointly build a new line of defense for intellectual property protection. The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in combating counterfeiting and piracy in an increasingly complex global environment.

WCO Trains Pakistan Customs to Boost Trade Via Audit Efficiency

WCO Trains Pakistan Customs to Boost Trade Via Audit Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully conducted an advanced Post Clearance Audit (PCA) training in Pakistan, aiming to enhance the PCA capabilities of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). This initiative fosters cooperation between customs and businesses, ultimately promoting trade facilitation. The training, based on the WCO's newly developed Advanced PCA Training Package, emphasized practical techniques and was supported by various funding sources. It's a crucial step in strengthening Pakistan's customs administration and contributing to a more efficient and compliant trade environment.

WCO Enhances Cambodias Trade Controls to Curb Proliferation

WCO Enhances Cambodias Trade Controls to Curb Proliferation

The World Customs Organization's (WCO) Strategic Trade Control Enforcement (STCE) program helps countries like Cambodia enhance their strategic trade control capabilities through online training and other means, preventing the illicit trafficking of weapons of mass destruction and related items. This article introduces the STCE program's focus, the four pillars of a strategic trade control system, and key tools such as the Strategic Trade Atlas. It emphasizes the importance of strategic trade control in maintaining global security by preventing the proliferation of sensitive goods and technologies that could be used for nefarious purposes.

Benin Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

Benin Customs Boosts Gender Equality with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) collaborated with Benin Customs to promote inclusive customs by implementing Gender Equality and Diversity (GEDC) policies. This follow-up mission included awareness workshops, assessed the progress of the GED action plan implementation, and offered recommendations for improvement. The aim is to establish a more equitable and efficient working environment within Benin Customs. The mission focused on evaluating the effectiveness of current initiatives and identifying areas where further action is needed to ensure a truly inclusive and diverse workforce within the Benin Customs administration.

INAMA Initiative Expands Antiwildlife Trafficking in Africa Asia

INAMA Initiative Expands Antiwildlife Trafficking in Africa Asia

The INAMA project supports customs authorities in nine African and Asian countries, enhancing their capacity to combat illegal wildlife trade through expert support missions. These missions focus on training, legislation, risk management, and action plans. The project promotes international cooperation, improves enforcement capabilities, and protects biodiversity, aiming to build a strong defense against ecological threats. By strengthening customs controls and fostering collaboration, INAMA contributes to the global effort to conserve endangered species and maintain ecological balance.