WCO Boosts Anticounterfeit Efforts with Rights Holders

WCO Boosts Anticounterfeit Efforts with Rights Holders

The World Customs Organization (WCO) convened another meeting of the Global Congress on Combating Trafficking in Counterfeit and Pirated Goods (GCTD), aiming to strengthen communication between rights holders and customs authorities to combat counterfeit goods. The outcomes of this meeting will directly influence the work of the WCO's Anti-Counterfeiting and Piracy (CAP) Group, providing crucial support for global intellectual property protection. This collaboration is essential for effectively addressing the challenges posed by the trade in fake and pirated products.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Guatemala in Boosting Trade for Economic Growth

WCO Aids Guatemala in Boosting Trade for Economic Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the Mercator Programme, provides technical assistance to Guatemala's Tax Administration (SAT) to effectively implement trade facilitation measures. Following an assessment, a WCO expert team offered recommendations for improvement, covering areas such as information transparency, procedural simplification, risk management, inter-agency cooperation, and private sector involvement. The WCO committed to providing follow-up support to help Guatemala enhance trade efficiency and promote economic growth. This initiative aims to streamline customs processes and boost Guatemala's participation in global trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases Crisis Guidelines for Global Customs Coordination

WCO Releases Crisis Guidelines for Global Customs Coordination

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 'Communication Guidelines During Crisis' to assist member customs administrations in addressing communication challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidelines emphasize the importance of defining clear communication objectives, selecting appropriate channels, developing clear strategies, building efficient teams, and strengthening internal communication. It encourages members to share practical experiences to jointly address the global crisis and maintain trade order. The guide provides a framework for effective communication during times of uncertainty and disruption.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Oman Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

Oman Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Oman in establishing an advance ruling system for commodity classification and origin, providing technical guidance through workshops. This system aims to enhance trade transparency and predictability. Oman is actively improving its legal framework, standardizing operational procedures, strengthening information management, and enhancing capacity building to promote trade facilitation. The implementation of advance rulings is a key step in streamlining customs processes and fostering a more efficient trade environment for businesses operating in and with Oman.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Ukrainian Customs Training Via RTC Reform

WCO Enhances Ukrainian Customs Training Via RTC Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides technical assistance to the Regional Training Center (RTC) in Ukraine to clarify its role and strategy in capacity building. By assessing the current situation, optimizing the governance structure, and developing strategic plans, the WCO helps the Ukrainian RTC enhance its training capabilities. This aims to better serve customs capacity building in Ukraine and throughout Europe. The WCO also recommends establishing a data monitoring system and strengthening data analysis capabilities to further improve the RTC's effectiveness.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Launches Etransit System to Enhance Trade

West Africa Launches Etransit System to Enhance Trade

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Customs administrations of five West African countries (Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Senegal, and Togo) have launched the development of an electronic transit messaging system. This initiative aims to simplify cross-border transit procedures by standardizing data and sharing information, thereby improving regional trade efficiency and promoting the effective implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement. The system is expected to inject new impetus into the economic development of the West African region.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Middle East North Africa Customs Crack Down on Artifact Smuggling

Middle East North Africa Customs Crack Down on Artifact Smuggling

The World Customs Organization held a seminar in Tunisia, focusing on combating cultural heritage smuggling in the Middle East and North Africa region. Participants suggested strengthening regional cooperation, enhancing the capacity of customs officers, utilizing technological tools, and improving laws and regulations. The aim is to more effectively protect invaluable cultural heritage. The discussions emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts and modern approaches to counter the illicit trafficking of cultural artifacts, ensuring the preservation of these treasures for future generations.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Launches Etransit System to Enhance Trade

West Africa Launches Etransit System to Enhance Trade

With the support of the World Customs Organization, five West African countries have launched an electronic transit information project. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of regional trade and facilitate economic integration within the region. By streamlining customs procedures and enhancing data exchange, the project seeks to reduce transit times and lower trade costs, ultimately boosting economic growth and strengthening regional partnerships. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of these nations to fostering a more integrated and prosperous West African trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Adopts Revised Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Moldova Adopts Revised Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

The Republic of Moldova has officially joined the revised Kyoto Convention, becoming the 139th contracting party, marking a significant step in simplifying its customs procedures and promoting trade facilitation. This move will bring various benefits to Moldova and contribute to the global trade facilitation process. The World Customs Organization will continue to support Moldova in effectively implementing the Convention, aiming to improve trade efficiency and economic growth. This accession underscores Moldova's commitment to international standards and its dedication to streamlining cross-border trade.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Mozambique in Tax Authority HR Modernization

WCO Aids Mozambique in Tax Authority HR Modernization

With funding from China, the World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the Mozambique Tax Authority in modernizing its human resources management system. Through diagnostic assessments and workshops, the WCO provided recommendations to improve employee competence, enhance organizational efficiency, and ultimately better achieve its strategic goals. This capacity building initiative aims to strengthen the Mozambique Tax Authority's HR practices, leading to improved performance and effectiveness in revenue collection and customs administration. The project focuses on developing skills and knowledge within the organization.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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