WCO and UNCTAD Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

WCO and UNCTAD Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

In 2014, the WCO and UNCTAD Secretaries-General met in Geneva, focusing on the harmonized implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). They emphasized providing needs assessments and technical assistance based on WCO instruments to avoid implementation divergence. Discussions also covered addressing complex cross-border trade issues, improving transportation and logistics efficiency. Both parties committed to further strengthening cooperation to build an efficient and transparent global trade system.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Supports Sudan in Improving Customs Risk Management

WCO Supports Sudan in Improving Customs Risk Management

A WCO assessment of Sudan Customs' risk management practices aims to support the country's implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The report acknowledges progress while also identifying shortcomings and providing recommendations for improvement. This includes strengthening risk assessment methodologies, enhancing data analysis capabilities, and fostering better coordination among different customs units. The assessment seeks to optimize resource allocation and streamline customs procedures, ultimately contributing to increased trade efficiency and security for Sudan.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO UNCTAD Aid Ghanas Trade Reforms Under Mercator Program

WCO UNCTAD Aid Ghanas Trade Reforms Under Mercator Program

The WCO and UNCTAD are supporting Ghana in enhancing its trade facilitation capabilities to implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, improve its trade environment, and promote economic development. Funding support is provided by the UK's HMRC. This initiative aims to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and boost Ghana's competitiveness in the global market. By strengthening institutional capacity and promoting international cooperation, the project contributes to sustainable economic growth and regional integration.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Moldova Boosts Customs Efficiency to Streamline Trade

Moldova Boosts Customs Efficiency to Streamline Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Customs Valuation workshop in Moldova to enhance the country's customs expertise in customs valuation and promote trade facilitation. The workshop covered topics such as the application of the WTO Valuation Agreement, the establishment and utilization of valuation databases, the valuation of second-hand goods, the treatment of assistance and license fees, and the advance ruling system. This provided valuable learning opportunities for Moldovan customs officials.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Armenia Enhances Trade Via Customs Time Release Study

Armenia Enhances Trade Via Customs Time Release Study

The WCO organized a TRS workshop in Armenia to enhance customs efficiency and promote trade facilitation. The workshop aimed to improve the effectiveness of Armenian customs procedures. Through the Time Release Study (TRS), bottlenecks were identified and action plans were developed to address them. This initiative aligns with WTO requirements for trade facilitation and contributes to streamlining cross-border trade processes. The TRS provides valuable insights for optimizing customs operations and reducing delays, ultimately benefiting businesses and consumers.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Colombia Customs Businesses Collaborate to Streamline Trade

Colombia Customs Businesses Collaborate to Streamline Trade

With the support of SECO-WCO GTFP, Colombian Customs hosted a trade facilitation forum. The forum focused on the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, shared experiences from Abu Dhabi's customs reform, and explored the impact of disruptive technologies on the future of customs. The goal was to support DIAN's customs transformation, creating an efficient, transparent, and modern customs system. Ultimately, this initiative aims to promote trade development in Colombia by streamlining processes and embracing innovation within the customs framework.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Nicaraguas AEO Program Boosts Trade Efficiency Reduces Costs

Nicaraguas AEO Program Boosts Trade Efficiency Reduces Costs

Nicaragua is actively promoting the AEO program to improve customs clearance efficiency and reduce trade costs. Supported by the WCO-Norad project and aligned with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, the program certifies businesses to enjoy benefits like prioritized inspection and simplified documentation. Participation in the AEO program can lower operating costs, improve efficiency, and enhance credibility, allowing companies to stand out in the market. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes and foster economic growth within Nicaragua.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Kazakhstan Enhances Trade Transit with Wtobacked Customs Reforms

Kazakhstan Enhances Trade Transit with Wtobacked Customs Reforms

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop for Kazakhstan to support the implementation of Article 11 of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, aiming to improve transit efficiency. The workshop focused on the role of the National Transit Coordinator and shared best practices. It provided support for Kazakhstan to optimize transit procedures and promote trade facilitation, strengthening its position as a transit hub in Central Asia. The initiative is expected to streamline customs processes and boost regional trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Moldova Streamlines Aid Clearance Via WCO Trade Program

Moldova Streamlines Aid Clearance Via WCO Trade Program

The Swiss-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) continues to support the Moldovan Customs Service in enhancing the efficiency of clearing humanitarian aid supplies. This is achieved through stakeholder workshops and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The project aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders, streamline processes, and ensure the rapid delivery of relief goods, aligning with relevant provisions of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The initiative focuses on simplifying customs procedures related to humanitarian assistance entering Moldova.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Bolivia Optimizes Trade with SECOWCO Goods Release Study

Bolivia Optimizes Trade with SECOWCO Goods Release Study

The SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) supported Bolivia in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to improve trade efficiency and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through expert guidance, questionnaire optimization, and pilot testing, the GTFP helped Bolivia identify bottlenecks in goods release and optimize operational procedures. This support contributes to trade facilitation and economic development by streamlining processes and improving efficiency within Bolivia's trade system. The TRS provides valuable insights for further improvements.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More