Gebrüder Weiss will establish a new country organization in Thailand in 2025 to strengthen its logistics network in Southeast Asia. This initiative aims to fill market gaps and provide customers with more direct connections to the Central Asia-Pacific market, while addressing the strong export demand.
The World Customs Organization held a workshop in the Asia-Pacific region focusing on the enforcement of Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). The workshop aimed to enhance the capacity of member customs agencies to combat the illicit trade of environmentally sensitive goods. Topics covered included an overview of MEAs, global trade trends, risk management, document verification, and cargo inspection. The event fostered regional cooperation and the sharing of best practices, laying a foundation for addressing global environmental challenges. It emphasized the critical role of customs in protecting the environment.
The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the role of smart borders in Connectivity 4.0 at the APEC Summit in Chile. He presented WCO's initiatives to facilitate the integration of SMEs into global value chains and address the challenges of e-commerce. The WCO also expressed its support for Chilean customs reform, aiming to jointly build a new landscape for digital trade in the Asia-Pacific region. The focus is on leveraging technology and collaboration to streamline trade processes and foster economic growth within the APEC framework.
Contrary to expectations, sea freight rates surged at the beginning of 2026, influenced by the Red Sea crisis, pre-Chinese New Year shipping rush, and the EU Emissions Trading System. Asia-Europe and trans-Pacific routes experienced significant price increases, adding cost pressure to foreign trade companies. This article analyzes the reasons behind the price hikes and proposes coping strategies for foreign trade enterprises, aiming to help them find certainty in their supply chains amidst uncertainty. It explores ways to mitigate the impact of volatile shipping costs and optimize supply chain operations.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held the Asia-Pacific Railway Seminar, aiming to promote the implementation of the Railway Guidelines, simplify customs procedures for railway transportation, improve clearance efficiency, and reduce business costs. The seminar fostered communication and cooperation between customs authorities, railway departments, and international organizations from various countries, injecting new impetus into the development of cross-border railway freight in the Asia-Pacific region. The event highlighted the importance of streamlined processes and collaboration for efficient and cost-effective railway transport.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) recently held a successful pre-accreditation workshop on Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) for Asia-Pacific members. The workshop aimed to cultivate professionals capable of promoting regional trade facilitation and security. Through experience sharing, interactive practice, and personalized feedback, the event laid a foundation for a robust network of AEO experts. This initiative will assist WCO members in strengthening their AEO programs and building a secure and efficient global supply chain.
Cathay Pacific reported a 6.3% year-on-year increase in cargo volume for June, primarily driven by tariff extensions and growing demand from Southeast Asia to the Americas. Total tonnage for the first six months increased by 11.3%. Chief Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau stated the airline will continue to monitor market uncertainties. This data sends a positive signal to the air cargo market, suggesting it may be adapting to the new trade landscape.
China and India are resuming aviation talks, seeking economic recovery and improved relations. This could reshape the Asia-Pacific aviation landscape. Cooperation, optimized policies, and security guarantees are crucial. The discussions aim to boost tourism and trade, potentially leading to increased flight routes and capacity. Both countries recognize the importance of air connectivity for economic growth. The outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for regional air travel and geopolitical dynamics.
South Asian countries like India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka are enhancing trade efficiency and convenience through customs modernization. Digital platforms, trade agreements, and policy improvements are driving innovations in customs procedures, injecting new momentum into regional economic growth and global market competitiveness.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for the Central Asia and Caucasus region in Georgia, aiming to improve regional trade efficiency. Through theoretical learning, field visits, and technical training, participants gained in-depth knowledge of the TRS methodology and developed national action plans. The WCO is committed to promoting connectivity across the Trans-Caspian Corridor, injecting new vitality into regional economic development. The workshop emphasized the importance of streamlined customs procedures for boosting trade along the Central Asia Corridor.
