WCO Conference Highlights Digital Tools for Sustainable Trade

WCO Conference Highlights Digital Tools for Sustainable Trade

The World Customs Organization Technology Conference focused on "Digital Empowerment for Trade Facilitation," delving into topics like Single Window systems, trusted digital ecosystems, and data-driven sustainable supply chains. The conference emphasized technological innovation as a key driver of customs modernization. It called for strengthened international cooperation to build smart customs, addressing global trade challenges and enhancing efficiency, security, and sustainability. The discussions highlighted the importance of leveraging digital tools to streamline processes and foster a more resilient and interconnected global trade environment.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Code Update Targets Plastic Waste by 2028

Global Customs Code Update Targets Plastic Waste by 2028

The 2028 edition of the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (HS) introduces more specific subheadings for plastic articles, enhancing the identification of particular plastic products, including environmentally sensitive polymers, expanded polystyrene articles, and single-use plastics. This will facilitate customs data collection, assisting governments in developing more effective policies to control plastic pollution and promote a circular economy and environmental sustainability. The refined HS codes will enable better tracking of plastic trade flows and inform targeted interventions to reduce plastic waste.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Tightens Green Trade Rules with Stricter Enforcement

Asiapacific Tightens Green Trade Rules with Stricter Enforcement

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an Asia-Pacific regional seminar in Malaysia, aiming to enhance member states' enforcement capabilities regarding Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) and address the challenges of illegal trade. The seminar focused on improving knowledge and skills, sharing best practices, and promoting international cooperation to collectively build a green trade barrier in the Asia-Pacific region, contributing to global environmental protection. This initiative seeks to strengthen customs' role in combating environmental crime and fostering sustainable trade practices within the region.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Digital Shift in Western Balkans for Closer Ties

WCO Backs Digital Shift in Western Balkans for Closer Ties

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization visited North Macedonia to promote regional integration in the Western Balkans through digital transformation. He emphasized the importance of data analysis, coordinated border management, and Single Window systems. He suggested building a regionally interconnected customs system based on WCO standards. Furthermore, he highlighted the role of customs in disaster relief and the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders. This visit underscores the WCO's commitment to supporting efficient and secure trade facilitation in the region.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Biometrics Emerge As Key to Digital Identity Security

Biometrics Emerge As Key to Digital Identity Security

The global digital identity framework is accelerating, with interoperability becoming crucial. Emerging standards and protocols are constantly appearing, and biometric technology is enhancing security. Companies like FACEPHI are actively exploring the application of biometric technology in the field of digital identity authentication, helping to build a secure and trustworthy digital world. This includes leveraging biometrics to improve user verification and reduce fraud, contributing to a more robust and reliable digital identity ecosystem. The focus is on creating seamless and secure identity solutions.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Tool Boosts Risk Management for Jordan Customs

WCO Tool Boosts Risk Management for Jordan Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of Jordan Customs' risk management capabilities to support its efforts in enhancing risk management. The assessment covered four key areas: risk management policies, strategic planning, intelligence, and compliance, providing recommendations for improvement. The WCO's new diagnostic tool was piloted during this mission, offering valuable lessons for other customs administrations seeking modernization. Jordan Customs will develop an action plan based on the assessment findings, and the WCO will continue to provide support to its implementation.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Strengthens Zambias Antiwildlife Trafficking Efforts

WCO Strengthens Zambias Antiwildlife Trafficking Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its INAMA project, supports Zambia Customs in enhancing its intelligence capabilities to combat the illegal trade in endangered species. A WCO expert team visited Zambia to provide strategic advice and technical assistance, covering intelligence gathering, analysis, dissemination, and risk management. This initiative aims to strengthen Zambia Customs' enforcement capabilities and contribute to global biodiversity conservation efforts. The project focuses on improving intelligence-led enforcement to effectively target and disrupt wildlife trafficking networks operating through Zambian borders.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Strengthens Customs Controls to Boost Trade Efficiency

Malawi Strengthens Customs Controls to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of Malawi Customs' risk management processes to support Malawi's customs modernization reforms under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. The assessment identified shortcomings in Malawi Customs' risk management practices and provided recommendations for improvement. The WCO will continue to collaborate with Malawi to advance its trade facilitation agenda. The assessment highlights the need for enhanced risk profiling, improved data analysis, and strengthened cooperation between customs and other agencies to effectively manage risks and facilitate legitimate trade.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Ukrainian Customs Training Via RTC Reform

WCO Enhances Ukrainian Customs Training Via RTC Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides technical assistance to the Regional Training Center (RTC) in Ukraine to clarify its role and strategy in capacity building. By assessing the current situation, optimizing the governance structure, and developing strategic plans, the WCO helps the Ukrainian RTC enhance its training capabilities. This aims to better serve customs capacity building in Ukraine and throughout Europe. The WCO also recommends establishing a data monitoring system and strengthening data analysis capabilities to further improve the RTC's effectiveness.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Palestinian Customs Program Advances Leadership and Reform

Palestinian Customs Program Advances Leadership and Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a leadership and management development workshop for Palestinian Customs, aiming to enhance the leadership and management skills of middle and senior managers. The workshop covered key areas such as leadership, personnel management, and change management, employing interactive teaching methods. It was funded by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and the EU Customs Fund. Participants expressed significant benefits and pledged to apply the learned knowledge to their practical work. This initiative contributes to capacity building within Palestinian Customs.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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