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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Montenegro Customs Boosts Valuation Skills in WCO Workshop

Montenegro Customs Boosts Valuation Skills in WCO Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on customs valuation for Montenegrin customs officials. The workshop aimed to enhance their professional skills and master the use of valuation databases for risk assessment. Covering the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation, valuation methods, and practical case studies, the workshop assists Montenegrin customs in better fulfilling their duties, safeguarding national revenue, and ensuring fair trade. The training is expected to improve their ability to accurately assess the value of goods and effectively identify potential risks associated with import and export activities.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Workshop Enhances Panama Customs Valuation Practices

WCO Workshop Enhances Panama Customs Valuation Practices

With the support of the China Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a virtual workshop on customs valuation for Panama Customs, aiming to enhance its capacity to implement the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation. The workshop covered key concepts, latest developments, and post-clearance audit applications of the Agreement. Through a combination of theory and practice, it improved participants' skills in document review, customs clearance, and risk management. The WCO will continue to deepen cooperation to support global customs capacity building and promote trade prosperity.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Qatar Customs Boosts Audit System with WCO Backing

Qatar Customs Boosts Audit System with WCO Backing

The WCO assessed Qatar Customs' Post Clearance Audit (PCA) mechanism to help it comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The WCO shared its expertise and best practices during the assessment. Qatar Customs anticipates the assessment report to further enhance its PCA program and streamline trade processes. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations, contributing to smoother and more secure international trade flows for Qatar. The assessment focused on identifying areas for improvement and providing recommendations for aligning the PCA mechanism with international standards.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Philippine Customs Boosts Reform Efforts with WCO Backing

Philippine Customs Boosts Reform Efforts with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Leadership and Management Development Workshop for senior officials of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Philippines. This initiative aims to solidify reform achievements and enhance crisis response capabilities within the BOC. Through customized training and a blend of theory and practice, the workshop supports the BOC in building a more resilient management system. It also lays the groundwork for future collaboration to effectively implement the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement, ultimately contributing to smoother and more efficient trade processes.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahrain Customs Adopts Wcobacked Smart Clearance System

Bahrain Customs Adopts Wcobacked Smart Clearance System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Bahrain Customs to enhance its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities and develop its advance declaration processing system to meet the requirements of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Through a workshop held in Manama, Bahrain Customs officials gained a deeper understanding of PCA concepts and the value of advance declaration processing. They committed to applying their knowledge in practice, and the WCO will continue to provide support for these efforts. This initiative aims to improve customs efficiency and facilitate trade.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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