Jamaica Customs Advances Strategic Plan with WCO Support

Jamaica Customs Advances Strategic Plan with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) in developing a three-year strategic plan. This plan aims to integrate customs reform, modernization, and trade facilitation measures. A workshop was held to build consensus and lay the groundwork for future collaboration. This initiative will support the JCA's modernization efforts and enhance Jamaica's national competitiveness. The strategic plan is expected to guide the JCA in streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and fostering a more conducive environment for international trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Liberia Adopts Competencybased HR to Improve Governance

Liberia Adopts Competencybased HR to Improve Governance

The Liberia Revenue Authority, with support from the World Customs Organization, implemented competency-based human resource management. By building competency models, competency dictionaries, and job descriptions, they optimized talent allocation and enhanced employee capabilities. This initiative aims to improve tax collection efficiency and promote national economic development. This approach provides a valuable reference for other government departments and enterprises, emphasizing a people-oriented strategy that prioritizes talent cultivation and development. The focus is on aligning skills with roles to boost overall organizational performance.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR Reform

Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR Reform

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA), with support from the World Customs Organization, is actively modernizing its GRH system based on competency models. Through the establishment of working groups, development of competency models, and participation in customized training programs, the LRA aims to improve employee quality, enhance organizational effectiveness, and strengthen organizational competitiveness. This experience provides valuable lessons for other tax authorities. The transformation focuses on building a skilled and efficient workforce to effectively manage tax administration and contribute to national development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cambodia Deploys Raman Spectrometers to Tighten Border Security

Cambodia Deploys Raman Spectrometers to Tighten Border Security

Under the WCO Asia Pacific Security Project, funded by the Japanese government, Cambodian Customs has introduced Raman spectrometers for rapid and accurate identification of explosive precursors. This initiative, involving equipment donation and professional training, aims to enhance Cambodia's border security enforcement capabilities. It effectively combats the smuggling of explosive precursors, safeguarding national security and social stability. This effort serves as a valuable reference for customs administrations in other developing countries seeking to strengthen their border control measures against illicit trafficking.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Port of New York and Jersey Expands with Infrastructure Upgrades

Port of New York and Jersey Expands with Infrastructure Upgrades

The Port of New York and New Jersey solidifies its position as the second busiest port in the United States, driven by significant container throughput and ongoing infrastructure upgrades. The 33-year lease renewal agreement with Maher Terminals signals a new phase of infrastructure improvements and operational optimization, further enhancing its competitiveness in the global trade network. This commitment to modernization ensures the port remains a vital trade hub, facilitating efficient movement of goods and contributing significantly to the regional and national economy.

01/26/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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CN Abandons CPKC Merger Amid Regulatory Challenges

CN Abandons CPKC Merger Amid Regulatory Challenges

Canadian National Railway withdrew its bid, clearing the path for the merger between Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern. The merged CPKC railway will be the only single-owner rail network connecting the US, Mexico, and Canada, reshaping the North American rail industry landscape. However, the deal still requires regulatory and shareholder approval, facing challenges related to competition, integration, and market dynamics. The successful completion of this merger will have significant implications for trade and transportation across North America.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Canadian Railroads Compete for Kansas City Southern in Major North American Rail Shift

Canadian Railroads Compete for Kansas City Southern in Major North American Rail Shift

Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) competed to acquire Kansas City Southern (KCS), aiming to create a rail network connecting the three largest economies in North America. This merger not only reshaped the logistics landscape but also sparked regulatory scrutiny, shipper concerns, and discussions about industry consolidation. The final outcome will profoundly impact the future of rail transportation in North America. The bidding war and potential consolidation raised questions about competition and access for shippers across the continent.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chain NRF Seeks White House Aid

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chain NRF Seeks White House Aid

The National Retail Federation (NRF), leading 177 industry associations, is urgently calling on the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential East Coast port strike on October 1st. The threatened strike would severely disrupt the US supply chain and economy. The NRF emphasizes the need for swift White House action to facilitate an agreement between the parties and ensure the smooth flow of goods.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Retailers Face Ongoing Supply Chain Challenges

US Retailers Face Ongoing Supply Chain Challenges

The National Retail Federation reports that the pandemic has significantly impacted US imports, posing challenges to the supply chain. Import data has declined, increasing uncertainty. Retailers need to strengthen collaboration with suppliers, optimize inventory management, and enhance supply chain transparency to cope with the pandemic's impact and seize opportunities for digital transformation. The pandemic has created a volatile market, requiring retailers to adapt quickly and strategically to maintain profitability and customer satisfaction. Addressing these challenges is crucial for long-term success.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Retail Sales Growth Flatlines in July Amid Economic Pressures

US Retail Sales Growth Flatlines in July Amid Economic Pressures

Reports from the U.S. Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF) indicate a slowdown in retail sales growth in July. Commerce Department data shows a total retail sales increase of 3.7%, while NRF data reveals a core retail sales increase of only 0.1%. Retailers need to proactively address these challenges and adjust their strategies to adapt to evolving consumer demands. This slowdown signals a potential shift in consumer behavior, requiring retailers to be agile and responsive to maintain sales momentum.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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