Armenia Modernizes Customs with WCO Support to Boost Trade

Armenia Modernizes Customs with WCO Support to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Armenia in developing a Mercator Implementation Plan. This plan aims to comprehensively improve customs clearance efficiency and trade facilitation in Armenia by optimizing key areas such as advance rulings, risk management, and the single window system. The initiative is expected to inject new vitality into Armenia's economic development by streamlining trade processes and reducing associated costs. The focus is on modernizing customs procedures to align with international best practices and facilitate smoother cross-border trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Jordan Customs Streamlines Trade with Wcobacked Clearance Reforms

Jordan Customs Streamlines Trade with Wcobacked Clearance Reforms

With WCO support, the Jordan Customs Department held a workshop focused on optimizing fast clearance processes and enhancing trade facilitation. By establishing new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Jordan Customs aims to standardize the expedited release of imported goods at air cargo facilities, fostering trade development. The GTFP project assists Jordan Customs in improving its fast clearance capabilities through various support activities, reducing trade costs and increasing trade efficiency. This initiative is crucial for streamlining customs procedures and promoting economic growth in Jordan.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
MENA Adopts Digital Tech for Smarter Border Control

MENA Adopts Digital Tech for Smarter Border Control

The WCO's SMART Borders workshop in Riyadh, focusing on the MENA region, highlighted the application of cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain in customs processes. Through WCO best practice sharing and guidance from ZATCA, participants explored how to leverage technology to enhance border management efficiency, injecting new momentum into the MENA region's digital transformation. The event fostered discussions on optimizing customs procedures and improving security through innovative digital solutions, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and secure trade environment within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Serbia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Modernization

Serbia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Modernization

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, Serbian Customs has made significant progress in standardization, transparency, cooperation, and automation, particularly in the AEO program, online application systems, and automation projects. These achievements have not only promoted Serbia's international trade but also injected new impetus into regional economic development. Serbia's reform experience provides valuable lessons for other developing countries. The advancements highlight the positive impact of targeted support and strategic implementation in streamlining customs procedures and fostering economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Workshop Enhances IP Rights Protection in Latin America

WCO Workshop Enhances IP Rights Protection in Latin America

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an Intellectual Property (IP) seminar in Panama, aiming to enhance the capacity of Latin American customs authorities to combat counterfeit goods. The seminar focused on strategic implementation, regional collaboration, digital transformation, and practical exercises. These efforts are designed to lay the foundation for a new landscape of secure trade. The event emphasized the importance of coordinated actions in protecting intellectual property rights and preventing the trade of illicit goods across borders within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Introduces Online Leadership Program for Customs Officials

WCO Introduces Online Leadership Program for Customs Officials

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched an online Customs Leadership course aimed at enhancing the leadership capabilities of senior management personnel. This initiative seeks to empower customs leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive organizational effectiveness and efficiency. By providing accessible and engaging online learning resources, the WCO aims to foster a new generation of dynamic and strategic customs leaders who can effectively navigate the challenges of the 21st century and contribute to the sustainable development of their organizations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Global Trade Rules to Be Updated Under HS Reform

Global Trade Rules to Be Updated Under HS Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched an exploratory study for the strategic review of the Harmonized System (HS) code system. This aims to assess the system's usability, adequacy, and health, while exploring future development strategies. The review addresses new global trade challenges, enhances trade efficiency, and promotes trade facilitation and security. It lays the groundwork for a more efficient, fair, and sustainable global trade system. All parties are encouraged to actively participate and shape the future of the HS system.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Ecommerce Boom Fuels Lastmile Delivery Competition

Ecommerce Boom Fuels Lastmile Delivery Competition

Alternative parcel carriers like Jitsu, SpeedX, and Veho are aggressively expanding in the US market, challenging industry giants like FedEx and UPS. Jitsu is increasing its presence in the Midwest, SpeedX is growing in multiple states, and Veho is eyeing Louisville and Richmond as new markets. By strengthening their domestic networks, these companies aim to increase their shipping volume and enhance their overall value. Their expansion signifies an intensifying competition in the last-mile delivery sector as they vie for market share.

01/08/2026 Logistics
Read More
GXO Logistics Posts Record Q3 Revenue Prioritizes Growth

GXO Logistics Posts Record Q3 Revenue Prioritizes Growth

GXO Logistics reported record revenue for the third quarter, up 8% year-over-year, with a 42% increase in net profit. New CEO Kelleher emphasized that the future strategic focus will be on accelerating growth and expanding profit margins, focusing on high-growth areas, strengthening technological innovation, and adopting a prudent M&A strategy. The company will continue to focus on opportunities in e-commerce, supply chain complexity, and emerging markets, while addressing the challenges of market competition and technological change.

01/08/2026 Logistics
Read More
Fedexs David Steiner Appointed USPS Director Amid Financial Struggles

Fedexs David Steiner Appointed USPS Director Amid Financial Struggles

The United States Postal Service's appointment of FedEx director David Steiner as its new Postmaster General and CEO has sparked industry attention. Can Steiner lead the financially struggling and highly competitive USPS through a transformation? His connection to FedEx and union concerns add uncertainty to the postal system's future. He faces multiple challenges, including optimizing operations, innovating business models, and improving labor relations. The appointment raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and the direction of postal reform under Steiner's leadership.

01/08/2026 Logistics
Read More