What was the original name of the World Customs Organization when it was founded in 1952?

The World Customs Organization was founded in 1952 as the Customs Co-operation Council.

The organization was created to improve the efficiency and harmonization of customs administrations worldwide. Its founding convention entered into force on 4 November 1952, establishing a forum where customs authorities could develop common procedures and technical standards.

The body adopted the name World Customs Organization in 1994, but the Customs Co-operation Council remains its formal legal name. It is headquartered in Brussels and works on issues including customs valuation, origin rules, classification, supply-chain security and border procedures.

The WCO is separate from the World Trade Organization. The WTO sets broad international trade rules, while the WCO focuses primarily on customs administration and the movement of goods across borders. Its work supports consistent implementation of trade procedures without being a tariff-setting organization.