Smart Customs Tech Boosts Global Trade Efficiency WCOWTO Report

Smart Customs Tech Boosts Global Trade Efficiency WCOWTO Report

The joint WCO/WTO report delves into the application, best practices, and challenges of technologies like blockchain, IoT, and big data in customs. It emphasizes that customs administrations should actively embrace technological change, strengthen international cooperation, increase technology investment, and improve regulatory frameworks. The goal is to enhance trade facilitation and promote global economic development. The report highlights the need for customs to adapt to the evolving technological landscape to effectively manage cross-border trade and ensure security.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Namibia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Zambias ASYCUDA Expertise

Namibia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Zambias ASYCUDA Expertise

The Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) benchmarked the ASYCUDA World system at the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), learning best practices in electronic payments and valuation control. This aims to enhance NamRA's automation, effectively implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, and promote trade development. This collaboration exemplifies South-South cooperation and highlights the WCO's role in advancing global trade facilitation. NamRA seeks to improve its customs processes by adopting ZRA's successful strategies, ultimately contributing to increased efficiency and reduced trade costs.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

The WCO assisted Uganda in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, enhancing customs capabilities. This support focused on optimizing strategic planning, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and risk management. A multi-year development plan was also formulated to guide Uganda Customs in its modernization efforts, streamlining processes and improving efficiency in line with international standards. The collaboration aims to facilitate trade and boost economic growth in Uganda through enhanced customs procedures and improved border management.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Executive Program Aims to Empower Customs Leaders in Global Trade

New Executive Program Aims to Empower Customs Leaders in Global Trade

The Executive Program in Commerce and Business Administration (EPCBA) aims to enhance the strategic thinking and practical skills of customs managers from developing countries. The program covers key topics such as international trade theory, business management knowledge, WCO international standards, and the WTO TFA, helping participants address customs challenges and promote global trade facilitation. It provides a comprehensive understanding of modern customs practices and equips participants with the tools necessary to improve efficiency and effectiveness in their respective roles.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Boosts Customs Valuation Via WCO Training Program

Lesotho Boosts Customs Valuation Via WCO Training Program

The WCO conducted customs valuation training in Lesotho to enhance the country's capacity, promote trade facilitation, and support the implementation of WTO agreements, ultimately improving the trade environment. This initiative aimed to strengthen Lesotho's ability to accurately assess the value of imported goods, leading to increased revenue collection and reduced trade barriers. By building local expertise in customs valuation, the WCO's training contributes to a more transparent and efficient trading system, fostering economic growth and regional integration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Boosts Customs Skills with WCO Training

Moldova Boosts Customs Skills with WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Customs Valuation workshop for Moldova Customs to enhance their valuation capabilities. The workshop covered the WTO Valuation Agreement, application of valuation databases, valuation of used goods, handling of assistance and royalties, and advance rulings. This workshop improved the professional competence of Moldova Customs officers, laying a foundation for trade facilitation. The training provided practical knowledge and skills necessary for accurate and efficient customs valuation procedures, contributing to smoother international trade flows.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Customs Enhances Trade with WCO Time Release Study

Bahamas Customs Enhances Trade with WCO Time Release Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Bahamas Customs in conducting its first Time Release Study (TRS) to identify clearance bottlenecks, optimize processes, and lay the groundwork for implementing a Single Window system. This initiative helps the Bahamas comply with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and enhances trade efficiency, improves the business environment, and provides new impetus for WTO accession and economic development. The implementation steps of the TRS and the advantages of the Single Window are also detailed.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Adopts WCO Study to Modernize Customs Efficiency

Bahamas Adopts WCO Study to Modernize Customs Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Bahamas Customs in conducting its first Time Release Study (TRS) to identify clearance bottlenecks, optimize processes, and improve efficiency. With WCO training and technical support, the Bahamas aims to significantly reduce clearance times, lower trade costs, and meet the requirements of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative is expected to promote economic growth and enhance the country's international image by streamlining customs procedures and fostering a more efficient trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Canada Pushes to Reform GATT Air Transit Rules

Canada Pushes to Reform GATT Air Transit Rules

Canada raised concerns regarding the WTO's transit provisions for aircraft, suggesting a footnote to clarify its non-applicability. This proposal aims to safeguard fair competition in air transport and promote trade facilitation. Canada believes the current interpretation could lead to unfair advantages and hinder the efficiency of air cargo and passenger transit. The proposed amendment seeks to ensure a level playing field for all airlines and maintain the principles of open and efficient trade as envisioned by the WTO.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kazakhstan Tightens Customs Rules to Improve Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Tightens Customs Rules to Improve Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Customs, with WCO support, held a HS Code workshop to improve tariff classification accuracy and consistency, promoting trade efficiency. The workshop covered the application of HS Code General Interpretative Rules, interpretation of Committee Decisions, adaptation to revisions, and the advance ruling system. This initiative aims to enhance the professional skills of customs officials and corporate compliance management, laying the foundation for the modernization of Kazakhstan Customs and the globalization of enterprises. The training is expected to improve trade facilitation and reduce discrepancies in customs declarations.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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