The training session, organized by the World Customs Organization's (WCO) Regional Training Center for West and Central Africa, in partnership with the Burkinabé General Directorate of Customs and the WCO-AOC Vice-Presidency, aims to enhance the skills of customs officials in applying rules of origin. The opening ceremony was presided over by Burkina Faso's Director-General of Customs, Dr. Yves Kafando. The training is based on the WCO's new comprehensive training package.
The rules of origin are crucial in facilitating intra-African trade and are a key component of preferential trade agreements. They enable customs administrations to regulate imports by exempting operations that meet specific criteria from taxation. According to Sidoine Yérémi, representative of the WCO-AOC Vice-President, "rules of origin are the cornerstone of any preferential trade agreement and, by extension, the heartbeat of international trade and continental integration."
The WCO has developed a comprehensive training kit on rules of origin to help customs administrations build their capacity. The objective of this workshop is to enable participants, who already have advanced knowledge of the subject, to refine their skills and apply them practically in the field. Dr. Yves Kafando emphasized the importance of mastering technical aspects, highlighting that understanding the economic nationality of a product is essential for effective taxation.
The training aims to harmonize practices and strengthen cooperation among customs administrations in the region. Dr. Kafando stressed that it is essential to equip stakeholders and work towards reinforcing cooperation among different customs administrations in the region. The event brings together customs officials from 21 countries, providing a platform for them to share knowledge and best practices.
The hosting of this international event in Burkina Faso sends a strong signal of resilience and hospitality. Dr. Kafando assured foreign delegations that the country's authorities are working tirelessly to restore peace and stability. He invited participants to experience the real Burkina Faso, dispelling alarmist perceptions. The event demonstrates the country's commitment to regional cooperation and development.
The representative of the WCO-AOC Vice-President thanked the Burkinabé authorities for their warm hospitality and urged participants to be diligent in their training. The goal is to transform the WCO-AOC region into a customs reference point, with modern, connected, and efficient administrations that guarantee secure and smooth trade.
The 5-day training session will conclude on November 13, 2026, with enhanced skills and knowledge on rules of origin. The event is expected to contribute to the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and promote regional integration. The collaboration between the WCO, Burkinabé authorities, and regional partners demonstrates a commitment to capacity building and regional cooperation.
Key points
- The training aims to enhance the skills of customs officials in applying rules of origin, a crucial component of preferential trade agreements.
- The event brings together customs officials from 21 countries, providing a platform for them to share knowledge and best practices.
- The hosting of this international event in Burkina Faso sends a strong signal of resilience and hospitality.
