Customs Key to Speeding Aid in Global Health Emergencies

Customs Key to Speeding Aid in Global Health Emergencies

The World Customs Organization (WCO) issued a notice urging member customs administrations to simplify clearance procedures for relief supplies during the pandemic and expedite the flow of goods. The notice emphasized the crucial role of customs in safeguarding lifelines and provided guidance. The practices of Chinese customs demonstrated a combination of efficiency and security. Post-pandemic reflections point towards customs informatization, international cooperation, and capacity building. Take action and contribute to the global fight against the pandemic.

Nigeria Customs Modernizes Ruling System to Ease Trade

Nigeria Customs Modernizes Ruling System to Ease Trade

The Nigeria Customs Service is actively implementing a national Advance Ruling System aimed at reducing trade costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing trade predictability for businesses by pre-determining commodity classification, tax rates, and other relevant matters. This initiative, part of the EU-World Customs Organization Africa HS project, draws on the successful experiences of Ethiopia and Liberia. It is expected to significantly improve Nigeria's business environment and promote economic development by providing clarity and certainty to traders before importation.

WCO Enhances Asiapacific IP Protection with Certified Experts

WCO Enhances Asiapacific IP Protection with Certified Experts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has completed a Technical Operational Advisor (TOA) certification training program in Japan, focusing on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aims to enhance the region's customs capabilities in combating counterfeit and pirated goods. Following rigorous assessment and training, customs officials from various countries will become key WCO resources in the region, providing technical support to member customs administrations and collectively addressing the increasingly complex challenges of intellectual property infringement.

WCO Supports Madagascar Customs to Streamline Trade

WCO Supports Madagascar Customs to Streamline Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Madagascar Customs in implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Immediate Release Guidelines, aiming to optimize trade processes, accelerate cargo release, and promote economic growth. Through workshops, gap analysis, and field visits, the WCO is working with Madagascar Customs to advance digital transformation and improve cross-border trade efficiency. This collaboration focuses on enhancing customs procedures and infrastructure to streamline the movement of goods and boost Madagascar's economic competitiveness.

Colombia Boosts Customs Checks with WCO Backing

Colombia Boosts Customs Checks with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Colombia's Directorate of National Taxes and Customs (DIAN) in upgrading its Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) system. This involved reviewing strategies, piloting procedures, and strengthening legal frameworks, significantly enhancing DIAN's compliance capabilities and enforcement powers. This initiative aims to reduce compliance risks for businesses, improve customs clearance efficiency, enhance trade facilitation, and boost corporate reputation. Ultimately, it fosters a more stable and predictable trade environment for Colombia's economic growth and its global trading partners.

Bolivia Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Study

Bolivia Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully conducted an online Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for Bolivian Customs, aiming to enhance trade facilitation in Bolivia. By reviewing processes, optimizing questionnaires, and preparing pilot projects, Bolivian Customs is ready for TRS implementation. The goal is to reduce goods release times, lower costs for businesses, improve the investment climate, and enhance national competitiveness. The TRS will help identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the customs clearance process, leading to targeted reforms and improvements.

Kyrgyzstan Boosts Customs Oversight Via WCO Partnership

Kyrgyzstan Boosts Customs Oversight Via WCO Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a national post-clearance audit (PCA) workshop in Kyrgyzstan to enhance the country's customs audit capabilities. Funded by the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, WCO experts used interactive teaching and practical exercises to help participants master the theoretical knowledge and operational skills of PCA. The successful workshop will contribute to strengthening Kyrgyzstan's PCA system, promoting trade facilitation, and safeguarding national economic security. The training covered key aspects of PCA implementation and risk management.

Saudi Customs Adopts WCO Data System to Boost Efficiency

Saudi Customs Adopts WCO Data System to Boost Efficiency

Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), aims to enhance customs efficiency and facilitate trade by building a data-driven performance evaluation system, supporting the Saudi Vision 2030. The WCO's Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM) and workshops assist Saudi Customs in identifying areas for improvement and building a team of experts to promote knowledge sharing and international cooperation. This initiative leverages data to optimize customs processes and contribute to Saudi Arabia's ambitious economic diversification goals.

Comoros Customs Strengthens Audits to Boost Revenue Trade

Comoros Customs Strengthens Audits to Boost Revenue Trade

With the support of the World Customs Organization and the China Customs Cooperation Fund, Comoros Customs is actively promoting the establishment of a Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) system to optimize tax collection and facilitate trade. Through national workshops, enhanced staff training, and improved legal frameworks, Comoros Customs is working to overcome challenges and build a balanced trade environment. This initiative aims to contribute significantly to the economic development of Comoros by streamlining customs procedures and ensuring compliance.

WCO Introduces Online Customs Valuation Training for Global Trade

WCO Introduces Online Customs Valuation Training for Global Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a new online learning module on customs valuation on its CLiKC! platform. This module aims to enhance the understanding and application of the WTO Valuation Agreement among global trade professionals. The course covers the six valuation methods and provides performance support tools. Funded by the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, the English version is now available. This initiative will contribute to international trade development and improve customs valuation capabilities worldwide.