WCO Updates Customs Lab Guide to Strengthen Regional Trade

WCO Updates Customs Lab Guide to Strengthen Regional Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has updated its 'Customs Laboratory Guide,' emphasizing the role of Regional Customs Laboratories (RCLs). A new Appendix V provides contact information and establishment procedures for RCLs, aiming to enhance member laboratory capabilities and promote regional cooperation in addressing global trade challenges. The updated guide, now available, offers guidance on standardized operations, capacity building, resource optimization, risk management, and cooperation promotion. It seeks to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of customs laboratories worldwide through strengthened regional networks and adherence to WCO best practices.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Updates PICARD Standards to Modernize Customs Training

WCO Updates PICARD Standards to Modernize Customs Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of the PICARD Professional Standards to adapt to the rapidly evolving global trade landscape. The revised standards will focus on public-private partnerships, customs-tax linkages, coordinated border management, and cover emerging trends such as security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. This upgrade aims to cultivate forward-thinking and practically skilled customs professionals, ultimately fostering global trade development. The updated standards will ensure customs administrations are equipped to meet future challenges and opportunities.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic of Antigua and Barbuda Customs to enhance trade facilitation. Through observation and discussions, the WCO assessed the current state of PCA implementation and provided recommendations for improvement. Moving forward, the WCO will continue to collaborate, assisting Antigua and Barbuda Customs in refining risk management, data analysis, personnel training, and IT systems. This includes strengthening cooperation with the private sector to promote trade development. The goal is to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Somalia Modernizes Customs System to Boost Global Trade

Somalia Modernizes Customs System to Boost Global Trade

Somalia is actively implementing the Harmonized System (HS) to integrate into the global trading system. International organizations, such as the EU and the World Customs Organization (WCO), are providing support to modernize Somali Customs. Despite challenges, the implementation of the HS will facilitate trade, attract investment, and promote economic development in Somalia. This initiative is crucial for streamlining customs procedures and aligning Somalia with international standards, ultimately contributing to its economic growth and integration into the global marketplace.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Madagascar Customs Boosts Valuation Skills Via WCO Support

Madagascar Customs Boosts Valuation Skills Via WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted an online workshop to enhance Madagascar Customs' valuation capabilities, covering valuation principles, Incoterms, the transaction value method, used vehicle valuation, and combating under-invoicing. Madagascar Customs officials actively participated, significantly improving their valuation skills. WCO experts commended their efforts and recommended strengthening valuation database development, enhancing risk management, fostering international cooperation, and continuing capacity building initiatives. This initiative aims to improve revenue collection and ensure fair trade practices in Madagascar.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Unveils Tech Network to Streamline Global Border Control

WCO Unveils Tech Network to Streamline Global Border Control

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched the Technology Network (TeN), aiming to be a leading global hub for border management technology. This platform facilitates information exchange, experience sharing, and collaboration among customs administrations, technology providers, and other stakeholders. It promotes technological innovation and application to improve global border management. Companies can register their products for free, and customs administrations can search for the latest technology solutions. The goal is to collectively build an intelligent border management ecosystem.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Postal Services Boost Delivery Speed Through Global Customs Partnerships

Postal Services Boost Delivery Speed Through Global Customs Partnerships

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Universal Postal Union (UPU) are collaborating to address challenges posed by cross-border e-commerce. This partnership involves strengthening cooperation agreements, holding global conferences, and optimizing customs clearance processes. The aim is to improve customs-postal cooperation, providing global consumers with a more convenient and efficient cross-border shopping experience. Efforts are also focused on building a safer and smarter postal environment, ensuring secure and streamlined international postal services.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Thailand Boosts Crossborder Trade with WCO Backing

Thailand Boosts Crossborder Trade with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Coordinated Border Management (CBM) workshop in Thailand to enhance the Thai Customs' cross-border trade management capabilities. The workshop focused on key areas such as cooperation between border agencies, Single Window implementation, and paperless trade. Participants also conducted a site visit to a border checkpoint to provide expert recommendations for upgrading Thailand Customs' CBM. This initiative aims to help Thailand create an efficient and convenient cross-border trade environment.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Ivory Coast Launches Trade Transparency System

Ivory Coast Launches Trade Transparency System

Côte d'Ivoire, with support from organizations like the World Customs Organization, is actively implementing the Advance Ruling System to enhance trade transparency, predictability, and customs clearance efficiency. This system allows businesses to obtain customs rulings in advance of importing or exporting goods, reducing trade risks. Chinese companies should pay attention to and utilize this system to improve their competitiveness in the Côte d'Ivoire market. The system aims to streamline processes and create a more predictable environment for international trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Body Unites Against IP Crime

Global Customs Body Unites Against IP Crime

The World Customs Organization (WCO) strengthens global cooperation in combating counterfeit goods by signing Memoranda of Understanding with various industry associations. The collaboration focuses on promoting IPM tools, enhancing information exchange, and training customs officers. This aims to improve global intellectual property protection capabilities, build a bridge between customs and rights holders, and jointly address the increasingly complex challenges posed by counterfeit goods. The partnerships seek to streamline enforcement efforts and create a more secure global trade environment.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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