Burundi Adopts Competencybased HRM System for Revenue Authority

Burundi Adopts Competencybased HRM System for Revenue Authority

With support from the World Customs Organization, the Burundi Revenue Authority is undergoing modernization through the development of a competency-based HRM system. This aims to improve operational efficiency, increase tax revenue, and enhance stakeholder relations. The workshop focused on empowering the HR department to build a competency model and develop an action plan. The WCO will continue to provide support to help the Burundi Revenue Authority achieve its modernization goals. This initiative highlights the importance of HR in driving organizational change and improving public service delivery.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Serbia Boosts Customs Efficiency with WTO Swiss Trade Aid

Serbia Boosts Customs Efficiency with WTO Swiss Trade Aid

With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), Serbian Customs is upgrading its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. This aims to improve customs clearance efficiency and attract more business participation. Through capacity building, strategic optimization, and dialogue with the private sector, Serbia's AEO program will better align with international standards, providing businesses with a more convenient trading environment and promoting economic development. The upgrades focus on streamlining processes and enhancing security within the supply chain.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

Lao Customs Adopts Japanese Expertise to Curb Smuggling

In 2017, Lao Customs officers participated in a training program on airport compliance and enforcement, supported by the World Customs Organization and sponsored by the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund. The training aimed to enhance Lao Customs' capabilities in passenger risk management. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, participants mastered key skills such as risk assessment, risk profiling, and target selection. They also learned practical methods including verbal and non-verbal risk assessment and questioning techniques. This initiative contributes to the modernization of Lao Customs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Introduces New Customs Strategies to Strengthen Supply Chains

WCO Introduces New Customs Strategies to Strengthen Supply Chains

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization emphasized the importance of global supply chain resilience at the Asian Development Bank Institute Annual Conference. He highlighted six key challenges: digitalization, data standardization, disruptive technologies, e-commerce, environment, and border conflicts. He called for strengthened customs cooperation, simplified clearance procedures, promotion of mutual recognition and interoperability, and support for cross-border e-commerce and green customs. These measures aim to build a more resilient global supply chain ecosystem, helping businesses navigate uncertainties and achieve sustainable development.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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OEA Certification Boosts Global Trade Security and Efficiency

OEA Certification Boosts Global Trade Security and Efficiency

This article provides an in-depth interpretation of the World Customs Organization (WCO)'s "AEO Implementation and Validation Guidance," aiming to help companies grasp the core elements of AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) certification. It focuses on enhancing supply chain security, reducing operational costs, and gaining a competitive edge. The article details the implementation steps, application process, validation methods, and related best practices of the AEO program, providing comprehensive guidance for companies participating in the AEO initiative. It helps businesses understand and navigate the complexities of AEO certification.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Agencies Combat Plastic Waste Surge

Asiapacific Customs Agencies Combat Plastic Waste Surge

The World Customs Organization (WCO) concluded virtual diagnostic missions to Indonesia and the Philippines, aiming to enhance customs' capacity in the Asia-Pacific region to combat the illegal cross-border movement of plastic waste. The project involved assessing the current state of customs in both countries, developing improvement plans, and planning a regional workshop to foster cooperation in addressing the plastic waste challenge. This initiative supports the implementation of the Basel Convention's Plastic Waste Amendments and promotes collaborative efforts to manage plastic waste effectively.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Liberia Enhances Crossborder Aid Efforts

Liberia Enhances Crossborder Aid Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA) conducted a mission in Liberia. This mission, under the C-RED project, aims to strengthen Liberian customs capacity, promote cross-border agency cooperation, and optimize the clearance process for relief goods. The goal is to build a more efficient humanitarian assistance system and enhance the country's ability to respond to emergencies. The project seeks to improve coordination and streamline procedures to ensure timely delivery of aid during crises.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kenya WCO Boost Customs Compliance and Risk Management

Kenya WCO Boost Customs Compliance and Risk Management

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Kenya Revenue Authority's (KRA) customs compliance and risk management efforts in collaboration with the Swedish Tax Agency (STA). This initiative aimed to enhance KRA's tax collection efficiency, close tax loopholes, optimize the business environment, and improve international competitiveness. This collaboration marks a significant step in the modernization of Kenya's tax administration and provides valuable lessons for other developing countries. The partnership focused on strengthening KRA's capabilities in key areas, ultimately contributing to sustainable economic growth and improved governance.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Seminar Focuses on Streamlining Crossborder Rail Freight

WCO Seminar Focuses on Streamlining Crossborder Rail Freight

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held the Asia-Pacific Railway Seminar, aiming to promote the implementation of the Railway Guidelines, simplify customs procedures for railway transportation, improve clearance efficiency, and reduce business costs. The seminar fostered communication and cooperation between customs authorities, railway departments, and international organizations from various countries, injecting new impetus into the development of cross-border railway freight in the Asia-Pacific region. The event highlighted the importance of streamlined processes and collaboration for efficient and cost-effective railway transport.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gabon Customs Adopts Wcobacked HR Modernization Plan

Gabon Customs Adopts Wcobacked HR Modernization Plan

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Gabonese Customs is actively promoting the modernization of its human resource management system, aiming to establish a competency-based modern HRM system. Through evaluating pilot programs, developing HR strategies, strengthening capacity building, and collaborating with the Ministry of Finance, Gabonese Customs is striving to enhance the professional skills and overall work efficiency of its employees, thereby contributing more significantly to national economic development. The reforms focus on building a more skilled and efficient workforce to support the organization's goals.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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