WCO Mechanism Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

WCO Mechanism Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

The 6th meeting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Working Group on Performance Measurement successfully concluded, marking significant progress in the development of the WCO Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM). The meeting finalized the first edition of PMM Key Performance Indicators, advanced the implementation of the data collection platform, and improved the self-assessment and peer review guidelines. These efforts aim to enhance customs efficiency, facilitate trade, and strengthen international cooperation, ultimately contributing positively to global trade development. The PMM will serve as a valuable tool for customs administrations worldwide.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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South Africas SARS Boosts Female Leadership in Organizational Overhaul

South Africas SARS Boosts Female Leadership in Organizational Overhaul

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an all-women leadership workshop in South Africa for the South African Revenue Service (SARS). The workshop aimed to enhance the leadership skills of female managers and promote institutional reform. Focusing on the challenges faced by SARS, the workshop covered topics such as strategic management and personnel management. Participants actively engaged and benefited greatly. Funded by the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the event reflects the importance placed on women's leadership development and customs modernization. This initiative contributes to building a more inclusive and effective customs administration.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guatemala Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Partnership

Guatemala Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the Mercator Program, supports Guatemala's Tax and Customs Administration (SAT) in implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This support includes on-site missions, needs analysis, and action plan development. The WCO team engaged with Guatemalan stakeholders, proposing recommendations to optimize customs clearance processes, enhance transparency, and strengthen inter-agency cooperation. The aim is to help Guatemala achieve trade facilitation, thereby promoting economic development. This initiative underscores the WCO's commitment to assisting member states in streamlining trade procedures and fostering a more efficient global trading environment.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Nations Strengthen Customs to Spur Economic Growth

Pacific Nations Strengthen Customs to Spur Economic Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has launched the Master Training Program (MTP) to develop regional taxation experts in Pacific Island Countries. This initiative aims to enhance customs valuation and commodity classification capabilities, thereby addressing tax revenue leakages and promoting sustainable economic development. Focusing on the specific taxation challenges faced by these island nations, the program builds a pool of expert trainers and develops specialized training materials. This provides a solid foundation for regional customs capacity building and contributes to improved revenue collection.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Program Boosts Nigeria Customs Efficiency

WCO Program Boosts Nigeria Customs Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO)'s Leadership and Management Development (LMD) program continues to empower the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) by enhancing the leadership and management skills of its managers through workshops and other initiatives. The WCO plans to support the NCS in building a pool of trainers to expand the reach of the LMD program. Furthermore, the WCO aims to explore new areas of cooperation to further support the development of Nigerian Customs. This ongoing collaboration aims to strengthen NCS's capabilities and contribute to its overall effectiveness.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Dominican Republic Streamlines Customs for Humanitarian Aid

Dominican Republic Streamlines Customs for Humanitarian Aid

With support from the Japanese government and the World Customs Organization, the Dominican Republic Customs has developed a rapid clearance action plan for humanitarian aid. Through workshops, the initiative brings together various stakeholders to optimize the legal framework, streamline customs procedures, and enhance emergency response capabilities. The aim is to ensure the swift delivery of relief supplies in emergency situations, providing timely and effective assistance to affected populations. This initiative strengthens the Dominican Republic's ability to respond effectively to disasters and provide crucial support to those in need.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with EU funding, held a Technical and Operational Advisor (TOA) accreditation workshop for French-speaking African countries. The aim was to enhance customs officials' skills in areas like commodity classification, origin, and valuation. Through pre-accreditation and field visit assessments, the project seeks to expand the pool of experts and facilitate regional trade. Quantitative evaluation and continuous improvement are crucial for the project's success, contributing to the upgrading of African trade. The program ultimately aims to streamline customs procedures and boost economic development within the region.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mozambique Modernizes Tax HR with WCO Assistance

Mozambique Modernizes Tax HR with WCO Assistance

At the invitation of the Mozambique Tax Authority (MRA) and with funding from the CCF-China, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of MRA's Human Resource Management (HRM) system modernization. The aim was to address HR challenges and achieve strategic goals by optimizing the HR framework. The assessment included meetings, interviews, and workshops, culminating in recommendations for improvement submitted to the MRA. The Commissioner General of MRA expressed optimism for future collaboration. This initiative highlights the importance of HR upgrades and customs cooperation for effective capacity building within customs administrations.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a risk management diagnostic of the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) to enhance its risk management effectiveness and promote trade facilitation. Through in-depth research, multi-stakeholder engagement, on-site visits, and supply chain analysis, the WCO tailored solutions for ERCA and proposed a capacity building action plan. This initiative aims to help Ethiopia establish a more efficient and secure customs administration system. The diagnostic and subsequent recommendations are intended to strengthen ERCA's ability to manage risks effectively and facilitate legitimate trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases Guide to Strengthen Supply Chain Disaster Resilience

WCO Releases Guide to Strengthen Supply Chain Disaster Resilience

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released the 'Disaster Management and Supply Chain Continuity Guidelines' to enhance customs' ability to respond to emergencies and ensure global supply chain stability. Covering the phases of preparedness, response, and recovery, the guidelines address key areas such as risk management, AEO, CBM, NII, and Single Window. It provides practical methods and a comprehensive framework for businesses and customs administrations to navigate crises and ensure smooth global trade flow. The guidelines aim to help mitigate disruptions and maintain the flow of goods during and after disasters.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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