World Customs Organization

Purpose

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is an independent intergovernmental body whose mission is to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of customs administrations. The WCO currently has 177 member governments. A member of the WCO, Canada has taken a key role in areas such as trade facilitation, revisions to the Harmonized System, capacity building, combating counterfeiting and the development and implementation of the Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade (SAFE). Canada’s contribution to the WCO advances its interests internationally, particularly given the importance of international trade for the Canadian economy.