WCO Boosts Zambias Trade Via Customs Modernization

WCO Boosts Zambias Trade Via Customs Modernization

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in building an internationally compliant Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to enhance trade facilitation in Zambia. Through on-site guidance, training, and gap analysis, the WCO assists the ZRA in refining its AEO system and promoting mutual recognition agreements with neighboring countries, fostering regional trade integration. Moving forward, the two parties will continue to collaborate to accelerate trade facilitation processes.

WCO Promotes Sustainable Trade with Green Customs Initiative

WCO Promotes Sustainable Trade with Green Customs Initiative

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Green Customs Action Plan (GCAP), aims to transform customs into advocates and practitioners of green trade, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). GCAP is divided into short-term, medium-term, and long-term phases, covering the greening of customs operations, the promotion of green trade, and the exploration of innovative measures. Through these three pillars, customs administrations will actively contribute to achieving the UN SDGs. The plan emphasizes a holistic approach to integrating environmental considerations into customs practices.

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 Supports Guineabissau Customs Modernization Efforts

WCO Supports Guineabissau Customs Modernization Efforts

Under the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization (WACAM) project, funded by the Swedish government, the World Customs Organization (WCO) supported Guinea-Bissau Customs in resource mobilization. Through training, Guinea-Bissau Customs enhanced its project planning capabilities, completing draft project proposals and a donor mapping exercise. The next step involves the WACAM project assisting the country in hosting a national donor roundtable conference to promote customs modernization. This initiative aims to secure funding and partnerships crucial for advancing customs reforms and efficiency in Guinea-Bissau.

WCO Forum Outlines Future of Global Customs Practices

WCO Forum Outlines Future of Global Customs Practices

The World Customs Organization (WCO) established the Customs Work Organisation Forum (CWOF) to reshape the future of customs work. The inaugural meeting brought together global experts to discuss customs work models in the “new normal.” The meeting adopted terms of reference, elected a chairperson, and shared survey analysis. In the future, CWOF will hold more meetings, collect case studies, and develop guidelines to promote customs work towards a more flexible, intelligent, and efficient direction. The forum aims to drive innovation and adaptation within customs administrations worldwide.

Digital ATA Carnets Streamline Global Trade Processes

Digital ATA Carnets Streamline Global Trade Processes

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is actively promoting the digital transformation of ATA Carnets and Customs Transit Carnets to simplify cross-border trade processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Contracting parties are required to complete the transition by the end of 2027 and designate contact points. This digital transformation not only facilitates trade but also strengthens international cooperation, ushering in a new era of global trade.

Comoros Modernizes Customs System to Enhance Trade

Comoros Modernizes Customs System to Enhance Trade

With the assistance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Comoros has upgraded its national commodity nomenclature to the HS 2012 version and signed the instrument of accession to the HS Convention. This aims to improve Comoros' trade efficiency, tariff revenue, and international image, bringing new opportunities for its economic development. Capacity building will follow to enhance customs officers' understanding and application of the HS.

Peru Streamlines Border Controls to Facilitate Trade

Peru Streamlines Border Controls to Facilitate Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Peru in upgrading its border management through the Coordinated Border Management (CBM) concept, aiming to improve the efficiency of cross-border trade. An assessment examined Peru's latest progress in border management, identified areas for improvement, and developed a roadmap for action. This roadmap focuses on promoting information sharing, optimizing customs clearance processes, and ultimately enhancing Peru's international competitiveness.

Uzbekistan Joins Revised Kyoto Convention As 127th Member

Uzbekistan Joins Revised Kyoto Convention As 127th Member

Uzbekistan has officially joined the revised Kyoto Convention, becoming the 127th contracting party. This marks a significant step for the country in simplifying its customs procedures and promoting trade facilitation. The World Customs Organization (WCO) welcomes this development and has pledged to continue supporting Uzbekistan in its related reforms. The accession demonstrates Uzbekistan's commitment to international standards and its efforts to enhance its trade environment.

WCO Aids Guyana in Modernizing Customs Procedures

WCO Aids Guyana in Modernizing Customs Procedures

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides strategic support to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to facilitate customs modernization and compliance with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. This support involves assessing the GRA's current state, identifying challenges, and recommending improvements. The initiative aims to enhance the GRA's operational efficiency and contribute to Guyana's economic development. This demonstrates the WCO's active role in promoting global trade facilitation.