WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

WCO Backs Cambodias Trade Reforms to Spur Economic Growth

At the request of the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia, the World Customs Organization (WCO) undertook a support mission to Cambodia. The mission aimed to assess the implementation gaps of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and assist in developing a five-year strategic plan. Through gap analysis and strategic planning, the WCO will help Cambodia improve its trade facilitation level and promote economic development. The support focuses on identifying areas needing improvement and providing guidance for a comprehensive strategic roadmap to enhance trade efficiency.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EUWCO Project Boosts African Free Trade with Rules Harmonization

EUWCO Project Boosts African Free Trade with Rules Harmonization

The EU-WTO Rules of Origin Africa Programme will significantly contribute to finalizing the AfCFTA's Rules of Origin by 2025. This initiative aims to harmonize key origin systems across Africa, fostering a unified approach to trade regulations. By promoting a community of practice focused on origin-related issues, the project supports the broader goal of African economic integration. Ultimately, streamlining and standardizing Rules of Origin will reduce trade barriers and facilitate smoother trade flows within the AfCFTA, boosting economic growth and development across the continent.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Botswana Strengthens Environmental Customs Enforcement Under Global Pacts

Botswana Strengthens Environmental Customs Enforcement Under Global Pacts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with UNEP and others, held a workshop for Botswana Customs to enhance awareness of the Basel and Montreal Conventions and strengthen controls over the cross-border movement of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances. The workshop fostered cooperation between customs and environmental agencies. Further technical assistance is planned to support the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to bolster Botswana's capacity in enforcing environmental regulations and facilitating legitimate trade while preventing illegal trafficking of harmful materials.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde Enhances Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

Cape Verde Enhances Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WCO-WACAM project, supports Cape Verde in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to optimize customs efficiency, attract foreign investment, and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The forthcoming report is expected to streamline procedures, enhance port infrastructure, and strengthen inter-agency collaboration. This initiative aims to facilitate Cape Verde's integration into the global economy by improving trade competitiveness and reducing trade barriers. The study's findings will provide actionable recommendations for enhancing the overall customs clearance process.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Togo Boosts Customs Skills with WCO Training

Togo Boosts Customs Skills with WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a workshop in Lomé to assist the Togolese Revenue Office (OTR) in rebuilding its customs valuation function. Through diagnostic assessments and practical training, Togolese customs officials gained a better understanding of WTO valuation rules and WCO practices. This initiative aimed to enhance their capacity in customs valuation control and management, laying the foundation for an efficient and transparent customs valuation system in Togo. The workshop focused on improving skills and knowledge related to valuation procedures and international standards.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Middle East and North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

Middle East and North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

A regional workshop in Amman, Jordan, focused on customs valuation and anti-fraud, aiming to enhance the capabilities of customs officials in the Middle East and North Africa. The workshop covered the WTO Valuation Agreement, WCO's Revenue Package tools, and anti-fraud strategies. Key discussions centered on Decision 6.1 and valuation risk management. Emphasis was placed on international cooperation, capacity building, legal improvements, and technological innovation. The goal was to foster a fairer trade environment by strengthening customs practices and combating fraudulent activities in the region.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawis Customs Talent Strategy Wins World Praise

Malawis Customs Talent Strategy Wins World Praise

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully assessed the talent development foundation of the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), aiming to help build a stronger human resource system to address the challenges posed by the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The assessment covered key areas such as strategic orientation, capacity building, and training systems. A national e-learning platform was also launched to support the MRA in enhancing customs professional capabilities. This initiative is crucial for Malawi to effectively implement trade facilitation measures and improve its overall customs efficiency.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Updates Global Trade Codes in 20122017 Harmonized System

WCO Updates Global Trade Codes in 20122017 Harmonized System

The WCO's HS Correlation Tables (2012 vs. 2017 versions) are crucial for international trade. They serve as a foundation for countries developing new tariff systems, a bridge for international standards alignment, and a vital tool in WTO negotiations. Businesses should thoroughly study these tables, update internal systems, enhance employee training, and consult professionals to address the impact of HS version updates. This proactive approach will improve trade efficiency and ensure compliance with evolving regulations, minimizing potential disruptions and maximizing opportunities in the global marketplace.

02/05/2026 HS Code Query
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Developing Nations Boost Trade Via Technical Assistance

Developing Nations Boost Trade Via Technical Assistance

This paper delves into the challenges faced by developing countries in trade facilitation negotiations. It emphasizes the crucial role of Technical Assistance and Capacity Building (TACB) in enabling these nations to benefit from streamlined trade processes. The paper proposes strategies such as establishing trade facilitation partnerships, implementing commitments in phases, and creating a WTO Trade Facilitation TACB support unit. These measures aim to help developing countries achieve mutually beneficial trade facilitation outcomes and ensure they are not left behind in the global trade landscape.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Vanuatu Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Study

Vanuatu Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for the Vanuatu Customs and Inland Revenue Department to enhance customs efficiency and promote trade facilitation. The workshop covered TRS methodology, software applications, and action plan development. Through the TRS, Vanuatu aims to reduce cargo release times, improve the business environment, and fulfill its obligations under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative is expected to streamline customs procedures and contribute to economic growth by reducing delays and costs associated with international trade.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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