Zimbabwe Zambia Launch Joint Customs System to Boost Trade

Zimbabwe Zambia Launch Joint Customs System to Boost Trade

The Zimbabwe and Zambia Revenue Authorities are actively promoting customs data interconnectivity to enhance cross-border trade efficiency and reduce trade costs. With technical support from the WCO, significant progress has been made in data standardization and legal interoperability. This initiative brings new opportunities for trade development between the two countries, streamlining processes and fostering greater collaboration in customs procedures. The improved data exchange aims to reduce delays and improve overall trade facilitation.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Simplifies Customs to Boost Trade Emergency Aid

Moldova Simplifies Customs to Boost Trade Emergency Aid

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, the Moldovan Customs Service has completed follow-up tasks to optimize SOPs, aiming to enhance emergency response capabilities and expedite the clearance of relief goods. By aligning with WCO standards, a national emergency framework is being built, laying the foundation for trade facilitation. Continuous improvement and collaboration will help Moldova become a model for trade facilitation. This initiative strengthens the country's ability to handle crises and ensures the smooth flow of essential goods during emergencies.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

WCO Updates SAFE Framework to Boost Global Trade Security

The 28th WCO SAFE Working Group meeting focused on the implementation monitoring and review of the SAFE Framework, emphasizing data strategy and green customs initiatives. The work plan was revised to align with the WCO strategic cycle. Companies should deeply understand the AEO system, strengthen internal compliance management, actively participate in industry exchanges, leverage technology to improve efficiency, and pay attention to green trade to seize the opportunities brought by the SAFE Framework. This includes understanding benefits, obligations, and best practices for successful AEO participation.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zambia Tax Authority Adopts WCO Tool to Boost Efficiency

Zambia Tax Authority Adopts WCO Tool to Boost Efficiency

With support from the Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation Project, WCO experts assisted the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in leveraging the Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM) to enhance strategic decision-making and governance. By establishing a data-driven performance evaluation system, ZRA aims to optimize operational efficiency and achieve customs modernization, ultimately contributing more significantly to Zambia's economic development. The PMM helps ZRA to monitor progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that resources are allocated effectively, leading to better trade facilitation and increased revenue collection.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Unveils Major Customs Reform to Boost Trade

Uzbekistan Unveils Major Customs Reform to Boost Trade

Uzbekistan launched the second phase of the Global Trade Facilitation Program (GTFP), aiming to enhance customs capabilities, optimize trade processes, reduce trade costs, and promote cross-border trade development. The project will focus on organizational development and trade facilitation, leveraging WCO capacity-building tools to upgrade Uzbekistan's customs system, injecting new momentum into economic growth. This initiative seeks to streamline procedures, improve efficiency, and ultimately contribute to a more competitive and integrated trading environment for Uzbekistan.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Costa Rica in Strengthening Supply Chains Via AEO

WCO Aids Costa Rica in Strengthening Supply Chains Via AEO

WCO assists Costa Rica in reviewing its AEO manual and strategy to establish a customs-led AEO program, enhancing trade security and efficiency. AEO certification facilitates customs clearance, improves security, and provides international recognition. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes, reduce border delays, and foster a more secure and predictable trading environment for Costa Rican businesses involved in international trade. The focus is on aligning the AEO program with international standards and best practices to maximize its benefits.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Boosted Supply Chains Trust During Pandemic

Customs Boosted Supply Chains Trust During Pandemic

The WCO has released crisis communication guidelines to assist customs administrations in responding to pandemic challenges. The guidelines emphasize clear objectives, teamwork, and proactive planning. Effective communication is crucial for maintaining public confidence, ensuring the smooth flow of essential goods, and fostering international cooperation. These guidelines provide a framework for customs organizations to manage information effectively during times of crisis, enabling them to adapt and respond efficiently while minimizing disruption to trade and protecting public health.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Streamlines Aid Clearance Via WCO Trade Program

Moldova Streamlines Aid Clearance Via WCO Trade Program

The Swiss-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) continues to support the Moldovan Customs Service in enhancing the efficiency of clearing humanitarian aid supplies. This is achieved through stakeholder workshops and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The project aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders, streamline processes, and ensure the rapid delivery of relief goods, aligning with relevant provisions of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The initiative focuses on simplifying customs procedures related to humanitarian assistance entering Moldova.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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IMF Course Boosts Tax Administration in the Americas Via SECOWCO GTFP

IMF Course Boosts Tax Administration in the Americas Via SECOWCO GTFP

The SECO-WCO GTFP supports an IMF advanced course designed to enhance the strategic planning and risk management capabilities of tax and customs administrators in the Americas. The course aims to deepen their understanding of emerging trends in taxation and international trade. Through a blended learning approach, combining online and in-person sessions, participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This initiative ultimately contributes to regional economic development by fostering improved tax and customs administration practices.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Eswatini Enhances Customs AEO Program to Boost Economy

Eswatini Enhances Customs AEO Program to Boost Economy

Eswatini Customs is upgrading its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to enhance trade security and efficiency, fostering economic growth. With the support of the WCO, through workshops, technical assistance, and inter-agency cooperation, Eswatini Customs is committed to creating a more efficient and accessible trade environment. This initiative aims to attract investment and integrate the country further into the global economy. The upgraded AEO program is a key component of their modernization efforts, streamlining processes and improving compliance.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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