WCO Enhances IT Leadership for West and Central African Customs

WCO Enhances IT Leadership for West and Central African Customs

The WCO held an Information Technology Strategic Seminar for West and Central Africa in Senegal. This event aimed to enhance customs leadership capabilities to address evolving trade challenges and promote economic development within the region. The seminar focused on leveraging information technology to improve customs efficiency, security, and compliance. Participants explored strategic approaches to modernize customs operations and facilitate legitimate trade flows, ultimately contributing to regional economic growth and integration. The WCO continues to support its member administrations in adopting innovative solutions for effective border management.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Customs Modernizes HR to Enhance West African Trade

Burkina Faso Customs Modernizes HR to Enhance West African Trade

Burkina Faso Customs, with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), has officially adopted human resource tools such as a competency framework and job catalogue to enhance talent management and organizational effectiveness. This initiative, a key outcome of the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, will help Burkina Faso Customs achieve its organizational goals, facilitate trade, and promote economic development in the West African region. The implementation aims to modernize HR practices and build a skilled workforce capable of meeting the challenges of international trade and customs administration.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West and Central African Customs Chiefs Back Continental Free Trade

West and Central African Customs Chiefs Back Continental Free Trade

The meeting of heads of customs from West and Central Africa focused on the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The World Customs Organization reaffirmed its support, emphasizing the critical role of customs departments and the importance of infrastructure. Discussions also covered addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic, combating counterfeit medicines and vaccines, and strengthening capacity building and regional cooperation. These efforts aim to contribute to regional economic development and the prosperity of the African continent. The importance of efficient customs procedures for the AfCFTA's success was highlighted.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West and Central African Customs Officials Boost Skills Via WCO Training

West and Central African Customs Officials Boost Skills Via WCO Training

Customs trainees from French-speaking West, Central, and parts of African countries visited the WCO Secretariat. Through thematic lectures and exchange visits, they gained in-depth understanding of the WCO's operational mechanisms, strategic planning, and capacity building projects. The training aims to enhance the professional level of customs officers in developing countries, promote international customs cooperation, and build a safer and more efficient global trade system. The visit fostered knowledge sharing and strengthened relationships within the global customs community.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moroccos DDP Shipping Eases North African Market Access

Moroccos DDP Shipping Eases North African Market Access

Morocco DDP shipping line offers businesses a one-stop, all-inclusive tax clearance service, simplifying export processes, reducing costs, and improving efficiency to help expand into the North African market. This dedicated line covers booking, customs declaration, loading, shipping, customs clearance, and delivery, ensuring full transparency and control. Suitable for various businesses exporting goods to Morocco. Preparing customs clearance documents in advance, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and certificates of origin, can help improve clearance efficiency.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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Future Shipping Network: Reshaping East-west Trade Dynamics

Future Shipping Network: Reshaping East-west Trade Dynamics

The East-West Shipping Network Initiative aims to enhance the reliability and efficiency of global trade transportation by reducing the number of ports along major shipping routes, optimizing shipping services, and introducing flexible regional shipping lines. Set to officially operate in February 2025, the initiative will effectively strengthen the resilience and responsiveness of supply chains.

01/30/2025 Logistics
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Uschina Trade War Disrupts West Coast Ecommerce Shipping

Uschina Trade War Disrupts West Coast Ecommerce Shipping

US tariffs on Chinese goods pose dual challenges of cost and logistics for cross-border e-commerce on the US West Coast route. Businesses need to reassess pricing and logistics strategies, optimize inventory, explore alternative routes, and closely monitor policy developments to adapt to market changes and achieve sustainable development. The increased tariffs necessitate a comprehensive review of supply chain operations to mitigate financial impact and maintain competitiveness in the evolving trade landscape.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US West Coast Shipping Times Lag Behind Europes

US West Coast Shipping Times Lag Behind Europes

International ocean shipping time efficiency varies significantly due to factors like routes, vessel types, and ports. The difference in time efficiency between the US West Coast and European routes can reach 20 days. This paper delves into the key factors influencing ocean shipping time efficiency and compares the specific time efficiencies of the US West Coast and European routes. The aim is to assist businesses in optimizing their supply chain efficiency by providing insights into these crucial aspects of international shipping.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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