Maldives Customs Modernizes Risk Management After WCO Report

Maldives Customs Modernizes Risk Management After WCO Report

The World Customs Organization (WCO) presented a diagnostic report to the Maldives Customs Service, highlighting areas for improvement in customs valuation, post-clearance audit, and risk management. The report recommended establishing a robust risk management system, optimizing valuation processes, and upgrading audit methodologies. The Commissioner General of Maldives Customs pledged to develop an action plan based on the recommendations to enhance customs efficiency and transparency, ultimately fostering economic development. This initiative aims to modernize customs operations and facilitate smoother trade flows for the Maldives.

WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade

WCO Advances Gender Equality in Global Trade

On International Women's Day 2025, the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlights its 'Women in Customs' initiative, emphasizing the vital role of women in the customs domain. By showcasing exemplary female figures, the WCO aims to promote gender equality and diversity. Initiatives like the 'Customs Gender Equality and Diversity Framework' are being introduced to foster a fairer, more inclusive, and efficient customs administration system. The WCO is committed to building a future where women can thrive and contribute fully to the success of customs worldwide.

South Korea WCO Partner to Develop Global Trade Talent

South Korea WCO Partner to Develop Global Trade Talent

Korea Customs Service (KCS) signed a cooperation agreement with the World Customs Organization (WCO). Through the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, KCS aims to provide high-level training to customs officials from other countries, sharing Korea's experiences and best practices in trade facilitation. KCS also pledged to increase its financial and human resource contributions to the WCO, assisting WCO members in implementing relevant standards and jointly promoting the advancement of global customs affairs. This collaboration underscores Korea's commitment to supporting international customs cooperation and development.

WCO and ICAO Enhance Air Cargo Security to Support Global Trade

WCO and ICAO Enhance Air Cargo Security to Support Global Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have jointly released new regulations to strengthen air cargo security and facilitate trade. Through the 'Joint Guiding Principles on Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information' and the 'Joint Guidance on the Coordination of Customs Authorized Economic Operator and Aviation Security Regulated Agent/Known Consignor Programmes', the initiative aims to improve risk assessment and program coordination. This collaborative effort seeks to build a safer and more efficient global air cargo supply chain.

Guinea Boosts Trade Efficiency with Stakeholder Partnerships

Guinea Boosts Trade Efficiency with Stakeholder Partnerships

With support from the Swedish-funded WACAM project, Guinea, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Bank, has strengthened communication among stakeholders in trade facilitation. Through training initiatives and the establishment of a port advisory committee in Conakry, the aim is to improve customs efficiency and promote collaboration among all parties. This effort seeks to enhance the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and foster Guinea's international trade development.

WCO Backs Benin Customs in Advancing Gender Equality

WCO Backs Benin Customs in Advancing Gender Equality

The World Customs Organization (WCO) partnered with Benin Customs for a follow-up action in Cotonou, implementing Gender Equality and Diversity (GEDC) policies and raising awareness among customs officers. Through workshops and action plans, the initiative aims to create a customs working environment that respects diversity, promotes equal treatment and opportunities, and contributes to sustainable development. The collaboration focuses on fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace within Benin Customs, ultimately strengthening its capacity and contributing to broader societal goals.

German Students Join WCO for African Customs Training Initiative

German Students Join WCO for African Customs Training Initiative

African students from the University of Münster visited the World Customs Organization (WCO) to gain insights into customs capacity building. Through expert lectures and participation in meetings, the students gained a more direct understanding of the current development status of African customs and the WCO's support measures. The WCO will continue to strengthen cooperation with African customs to help its modernization and transformation. This visit highlighted the importance of international collaboration in enhancing customs efficiency and promoting trade facilitation across the African continent.

WCO Adds Spanish Arabic to Professional Standards for Global Customs

WCO Adds Spanish Arabic to Professional Standards for Global Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) announced the addition of Spanish and Arabic versions to its PICARD Professional Standards, aiming to enhance the professional capabilities of customs officers worldwide and facilitate international trade. The WCO expressed gratitude to the University of Costa Rica and the Saudi Customs for their translation support. The WCO will continue to promote the standards to support global customs capacity building initiatives. This expansion ensures wider accessibility and implementation of best practices in customs administration across diverse linguistic regions.

Wcos CEN Precertification Enhances Global Trade Security

Wcos CEN Precertification Enhances Global Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held its first CEN (Customs Enforcement Network) Application Technology and Operational Advisor Pre-certification Workshop in Xiamen. The workshop aimed to cultivate a group of experts proficient in CEN applications, enhance global customs enforcement capabilities, combat cross-border crime, and safeguard trade security. Customs elites from various countries participated in the workshop. Upon certification, they will join the WCO expert pool, providing technical assistance to member countries in need. This initiative strengthens international cooperation in customs enforcement.

Iran Enhances Customs Via WCO Japanbacked AEO Program

Iran Enhances Customs Via WCO Japanbacked AEO Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the CCF Japan, supported Iranian Customs in hosting a national workshop on Customs Procedure Informatization and the AEO Program. The workshop aimed to enhance customs clearance efficiency and strengthen border control through information technology. It also focused on upgrading the AEO program to promote trade facilitation and improve Iran's competitiveness in global trade. The initiative underscores the importance of digital transformation and international cooperation in streamlining customs processes and fostering economic growth.