Togo WCO Boost Women Traders Via Customs Reform

Togo WCO Boost Women Traders Via Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) collaborated with the Togolese Revenue Office (OTR) to focus on trade facilitation through a gender equality lens. Through capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and policy recommendations, the initiative aims to empower Togolese Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), particularly women traders. The goal is to build a more equitable, secure, and efficient trading environment, fostering economic growth and social development in Togo. This partnership highlights the importance of inclusive trade practices and the role of customs in promoting gender equality.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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International Aid Strengthens Malis Customs Crisis Response

International Aid Strengthens Malis Customs Crisis Response

The World Customs Organization (WCO) collaborates with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA) through the C-RED project to support Mali in enhancing its customs clearance capacity for emergency relief goods. This initiative aims to strengthen customs' preparedness for emergencies in West Africa by focusing on capacity building, coordination mechanisms, and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The goal is to ensure the rapid delivery of relief supplies, contributing to the protection of lives and livelihoods during crises.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran and Japan signed a Mutual Assistance and Cooperation Agreement on Customs Matters, aiming to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the customs area. The agreement facilitates information sharing, joint research, and administrative assistance. Based on the World Customs Organization's Model Agreement, it will promote trade growth, enhance trade security, and improve the investment climate. This agreement sets a precedent for global customs cooperation, fostering a more secure and efficient international trade environment between the two nations. It is expected to significantly boost economic ties and streamline customs procedures.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Boosted by Streamlined Customs Communication

Global Trade Boosted by Streamlined Customs Communication

This paper interprets the World Customs Organization (WCO)'s 2014 'Year of Communication' strategy, emphasizing the role of customs communication in trade facilitation. From a data analyst's perspective, it proposes optimization strategies such as building data-driven communication models, utilizing natural language processing techniques, and strengthening data visualization. Through case study analysis, the paper also looks forward to the future development trends of customs communication. It highlights the importance of effective communication for streamlining trade processes and improving overall efficiency within the global customs environment.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Unique Consignment References Boost Global Trade Efficiency

Unique Consignment References Boost Global Trade Efficiency

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the role of the World Customs Organization (WCO)-recommended Unique Consignment Reference (UCR) in global trade. By assigning a unique “identity card” to each consignment, the UCR simplifies customs clearance processes, reduces costs, and enhances security. The article details the definition, structure, application scenarios, and future development trends of the UCR, revealing its key value in facilitating global trade. It highlights how UCR streamlines processes and contributes to a more efficient and secure international trade environment.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Japanfunded Project Enhances Pacific Islands Disaster Customs Response

Japanfunded Project Enhances Pacific Islands Disaster Customs Response

Funded by the Japanese government through the WCO COVID-19 Project, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop to enhance the capacity of Pacific Island countries' customs administrations to expedite the clearance of relief goods during natural disasters and other emergencies. The workshop fostered international cooperation, promoted regulatory updates and process optimization, and improved the professional skills of customs officers. This initiative aims to build a robust barrier for the region to cope with potential future natural disasters by strengthening customs' ability to respond effectively.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Revised Kyoto Convention Enters Global Customs Consultation Phase

Revised Kyoto Convention Enters Global Customs Consultation Phase

The World Customs Organization convened the 29th session of the Revised Kyoto Convention Management Committee. Key discussions focused on potential draft texts for specific annexes, covering crucial areas such as goods processing, postal traffic, relief consignments, express shipments, travelers, rules of origin, and free zones. The meeting emphasized the importance of a comprehensive review and called for active participation from all parties to collectively promote the modernization and harmonization of global customs rules. This collaborative effort aims to streamline international trade and improve efficiency.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Morocco Boosts Customs AI with SECOWCO Backing

Morocco Boosts Customs AI with SECOWCO Backing

Morocco has launched the second phase of the SECO-WCO Trade Facilitation Programme, leveraging AI to enhance customs risk management and trade facilitation. The project aims to improve efficiency and security in cross-border trade through intelligent systems and data analysis. The World Customs Organization (WCO) is providing technical support to Morocco in implementing these advanced technologies and best practices. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce trade costs and improve the overall competitiveness of the Moroccan economy by streamlining customs procedures and minimizing delays.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kenya Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Customs Program

Kenya Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Customs Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted an AEO awareness campaign for the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and its partner agencies. The initiative aimed to disseminate AEO knowledge, share best practices, promote mutual recognition, and plan for future development. By deeply analyzing the WCO SAFE Framework, strengthening risk management principles, and designing a mutual recognition framework, the campaign supports Kenyan Customs in creating an efficient and secure international trade environment and enhancing its international competitiveness. This initiative is crucial for Kenya's trade facilitation efforts and global economic integration.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sri Lanka Boosts Customs Nuclear Detection Capabilities

Sri Lanka Boosts Customs Nuclear Detection Capabilities

Sri Lanka Customs, with support from the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the U.S. Department of Energy through the RANDA Project, conducted radiation and nuclear detection training. This initiative aims to enhance customs officers' awareness and response capabilities to related threats. The training covered legal frameworks, risk management, detection technologies, and included field visits and international cooperation. The goal is to build a stronger nuclear security line of defense at the border, improving the ability to identify and interdict illicit trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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