The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Costa Rica's customs in enhancing the implementation of trade facilitation agreements. By providing resources and training, it aims to strengthen customs capabilities and optimize cross-border trade processes, leading to improved international trade compliance and economic growth.
A joint workshop by the World Trade Organization and the World Customs Organization aimed to enhance Saint Lucia's customs valuation capabilities and optimize its trade environment. The workshop covered topics including the Valuation Agreement, technical analysis, dispute resolution, and risk management. The goal was to improve the expertise and skills of Saint Lucian customs officials, ultimately fostering the country's economic development. By strengthening customs valuation practices, Saint Lucia can promote fair trade and attract investment, contributing to sustainable economic growth.
The World Customs Organization's (WCO) Mercator Program is assisting the Bahamas Customs Department (BCD) in its customs modernization efforts to support its accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Through gap analysis, process optimization, and the establishment of a Single Window system, the program aims to enhance trade facilitation in the Bahamas, strengthen its international competitiveness, and promote economic development. This initiative is crucial for streamlining customs procedures and fostering a more efficient and transparent trade environment in the Bahamas.
The World Customs Organization and the World Trade Organization are actively promoting the application of disruptive technologies in customs globally. Through collaborative research, project implementation, and report publication, they aim to raise awareness among members about technology applications, promote trade facilitation, and enhance border security. Embracing technological change is crucial for customs to modernize and improve competitiveness. This includes exploring AI, blockchain, and IoT to streamline processes, improve risk management, and foster a more efficient and secure global trade environment.
With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Bahamas Customs has launched its first Time Release Study (TRS). This initiative aims to quantify the time taken at each stage of the customs clearance process, identify bottlenecks, and optimize procedures. The goal is to improve customs efficiency, reduce trade costs, enhance the business environment, and prepare for accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The WCO provides technical assistance and training to help Bahamas Customs modernize and promote trade facilitation.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively responds to World Environment Day, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation. Customs play a crucial role in sustainable development by combating environmental crimes such as illegal wildlife trade, timber trade, hazardous waste shipments, and IUU fishing. The WCO supports its member customs in addressing environmental challenges through capacity building, intelligence networks, and international cooperation, contributing to the protection of our planet.
The World Customs Organization has released the 5th major revision of the HS Code, involving 233 adjustments across various sectors including agriculture, chemicals, timber, and textiles. This revision aims to improve the accuracy of trade statistics, facilitate trade, and address emerging trade challenges. Businesses should promptly understand these new changes to effectively navigate the evolving landscape of international trade.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) actively participated in the 2023 World Economic Forum, emphasizing the importance of enhancing global trade efficiency through eliminating bureaucratic obstacles, embracing technological innovation, and strengthening international cooperation. WCO Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya met with various leaders to discuss the role of customs in promoting trade facilitation, aiming to reduce trade costs, promote cross-border investment, and ultimately benefit global consumers. The WCO advocates for streamlined customs procedures and collaborative efforts to foster a more efficient and inclusive global trading system.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the World Trade Organization (WTO), held an advanced training course in Geneva for chairpersons of National Trade Facilitation Committees from French-speaking countries. The course aimed to enhance their understanding of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and improve their communication and collaboration skills with stakeholders. The curriculum was based on WCO's capacity building materials and introduced key tools such as the Mercator Program. Both organizations will continue their collaboration to organize similar courses for Spanish-speaking countries.
The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) emphasized the crucial role of collaboration between trade and customs communities in improving global well-being at the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council meeting. By strengthening information sharing, capacity building, and technological innovation, the WTO and WCO can jointly build a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable global trading system. This cooperation is essential for facilitating trade, ensuring security, and promoting economic development worldwide. The focus is on streamlining processes and fostering a collaborative environment for mutual benefit.
