WCO Publishes AEO Guide to Boost Global Trade Security

WCO Publishes AEO Guide to Boost Global Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released the AEO Guidelines, aiming to enhance global supply chain security and efficiency, facilitate international trade, and provide a framework for implementing AEO programs. These guidelines offer practical guidance to customs administrations and businesses on establishing and operating effective AEO programs, contributing to a more secure and streamlined global trading environment. The focus is on promoting compliance, reducing risks, and fostering collaboration between customs and the private sector.

Datadriven Customs Modernize Global Trade for Security Efficiency

Datadriven Customs Modernize Global Trade for Security Efficiency

Interconnected Customs (DRI) is a strategic concept of the World Customs Organization to promote global trade security and facilitation. It aims to enhance collaboration and information sharing among customs administrations worldwide. However, the implementation of DRI faces challenges such as data security and privacy concerns. Strengthening international cooperation and developing robust data governance frameworks are crucial to address these challenges and fully realize the potential of DRI in facilitating legitimate trade and combating illicit activities.

Sudan Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

Sudan Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Sudanese Customs has launched a human resource management modernization transformation, adopting a competency-based model. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of talent selection, training, and performance evaluation, building a more competitive human resource system to contribute more significantly to Sudan's economic development. Through international cooperation, Sudanese Customs is learning from best practices and striving to achieve leapfrog development in its human resource capabilities.

WCO ASAPRA Partner to Simplify Customs Enhance Trade Compliance

WCO ASAPRA Partner to Simplify Customs Enhance Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Association of Professional Customs Brokers of the Americas (ASAPRA) are deepening cooperation to enhance trade facilitation and compliance through information sharing, training collaboration, and technological innovation. This initiative aims to reduce compliance costs for businesses, improve customs clearance efficiency, and enhance global competitiveness. By fostering a smoother and more efficient trade environment, this partnership will help businesses seize trade opportunities and build a shared future.

US Customs Clarifies Import Rules for Smartwatches and Drones

US Customs Clarifies Import Rules for Smartwatches and Drones

The Harmonized System Committee of the World Customs Organization has released its latest commodity classification decisions, clarifying the customs classification standards for high-tech products such as smartwatches and drones. This move helps companies accurately declare import and export goods, reduce trade risks, and promote the improvement of international trade rules. It provides clearer guidelines for customs authorities and businesses alike, ensuring consistent application of tariffs and trade regulations for these rapidly evolving technologies.

Global Customs Body Strengthens Crackdown on Illegal Waste Trade

Global Customs Body Strengthens Crackdown on Illegal Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively supports the Environmental Network for Optimizing Regulatory Compliance on Illegal Traffic (ENFORCE), combating illegal waste trade through enhanced international cooperation and strengthened customs enforcement capabilities, protecting the environment and human health. The WCO will assist ENFORCE members in strengthening connections with customs administrations worldwide, promoting joint training, and preparing for enforcement actions related to illegal waste. This collaboration aims to disrupt illicit flows and safeguard global environmental security.

Global Customs Agencies Adopt Agile Tech at WCO 2026

Global Customs Agencies Adopt Agile Tech at WCO 2026

The 2026 WCO Technology Conference in Abu Dhabi successfully concluded, focusing on "Customs Agility in a Complex World." The conference highlighted the pivotal role of technology in enhancing customs efficiency and ensuring trade security. Discussions covered the application of technologies like non-intrusive inspection, risk management, and cloud computing, emphasizing international cooperation and multi-stakeholder engagement. A hackathon showcased innovative practices, pointing towards the development of smarter, more secure, and efficient customs operations.

WCO South Korea Aid Yemens Customs Reform Amid Crisis

WCO South Korea Aid Yemens Customs Reform Amid Crisis

With funding from the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund (CCF), the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a high-level seminar in Amman, Jordan, to assist Yemen Customs in transitioning from crisis response to recovery. The seminar focused on key issues such as capacity building and strategic planning. The WCO provided technical assistance and resource coordination, while Korea provided financial support. The Head of Yemen Customs expressed gratitude to the WCO and pledged to enhance trade security and competitiveness to achieve national recovery. This initiative highlights the importance of international cooperation in supporting fragile states.

MENA Region Boosts Customs Risk Management Via WCO Workshop

MENA Region Boosts Customs Risk Management Via WCO Workshop

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Workshop on Risk Assessment and Targeting, sponsored by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and hosted by Qatar Customs, was held in Doha. The workshop aimed to enhance the risk management capabilities of customs administrations in the region. Focusing on risk assessment and profiling, the event facilitated the exchange of experiences through case studies and national reports. The goal was to improve customs' ability to identify and manage risks, enabling them to address the challenges posed by increasingly complex global trade.

WCO Expertise France Boost Gender Equality in African Tax Agencies

WCO Expertise France Boost Gender Equality in African Tax Agencies

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Expertise France jointly organized a gender equality workshop in Côte d'Ivoire. The workshop aimed to raise awareness of gender equality among customs and tax officials in West and Central Africa. Practical tools, such as the Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT), were introduced. The event also facilitated the exchange of experiences between countries, laying the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive customs and tax environment. The initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in promoting gender equality within customs and taxation sectors.