East Africa Enhances Customs Oversight with Audit Training Completion

East Africa Enhances Customs Oversight with Audit Training Completion

The WCO and JICA's joint "Master Trainer Programme" successfully concluded in East Africa, training 18 post-clearance audit experts and developing regional training materials. This initiative aims to enhance customs audit capabilities in East Africa, facilitating trade, combating smuggling, and safeguarding economic security. The project is expected to inject new momentum into regional development by strengthening customs administration and promoting efficient trade practices within the East African Community.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Enhances Customs Skills with Origin Rules Training

West Africa Enhances Customs Skills with Origin Rules Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly advancing the Rules of Origin 'Pool of Trainers' project in West Africa. A workshop held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, aimed to enhance the capacity of West African customs administrations in implementing rules of origin. The initiative focuses on developing experienced trainers and establishing a sustainable training system to facilitate trade and economic development within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West African Customs Officials Trained on Rules of Origin

West African Customs Officials Trained on Rules of Origin

The WCO and JICA are collaborating on a Rules of Origin training program in West Africa. This initiative focuses on developing 'trainers' to enhance customs capacity in the region. The project aims to equip customs officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement and manage Rules of Origin, particularly in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By strengthening customs capacity, the program seeks to facilitate trade and address the challenges posed by the AfCFTA.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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DR Congo Boosts Customs Oversight to Reform Trade Practices

DR Congo Boosts Customs Oversight to Reform Trade Practices

The General Directorate of Customs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) sought technical assistance from the World Customs Organization (WCO) to regain control over customs valuation, aiming to assess and enhance the capabilities of customs officers. Following a diagnostic assessment, the WCO recommended that the DRC utilize modern tools such as risk management and post-clearance audit, and supported its strategy to comply with the Niamey Declaration and the Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative not only improves customs valuation capacity in the DRC but also revitalizes the national economy and reshapes the trade landscape.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Congo Enhances Customs Valuation Skills Through Expert Training

Congo Enhances Customs Valuation Skills Through Expert Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) collaborated with the General Directorate of Customs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DGDA) to conduct a training workshop on customs valuation control. The aim was to enhance the professional skills of Congolese customs officials, combat smuggling and under-invoicing, improve the trade environment, and promote economic development. This initiative seeks to create more development opportunities for businesses operating in the region by strengthening customs valuation practices and ensuring fair trade.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Directtoconsumer Brands Face Cash Flow Challenges Amid Growth

Directtoconsumer Brands Face Cash Flow Challenges Amid Growth

This article explores common cash flow management challenges faced by D2C brands during expansion. Jon Blair, founder of Free to Grow CFO, emphasizes that a profitable income statement doesn't guarantee healthy cash flow. Brands should focus on the impact of inventory, accounts receivable, and marketing expenses on cash flow. Establishing a cash flow forecasting mechanism is crucial for sustainable growth. By proactively managing these elements, D2C brands can navigate the complexities of scaling and ensure long-term financial stability.

11/03/2025 International Settlement
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Ecommerce Giants Thrive in IPO Boom Amid Branding Focus

Ecommerce Giants Thrive in IPO Boom Amid Branding Focus

Despite challenges, many cross-border e-commerce sellers are pursuing IPOs, exceeding $5 billion in total revenue. Branding is crucial for success, with factory transitions to DTC brands proving to be a viable path. The cross-border e-commerce market is vast, with significant opportunities in emerging markets like Latin America and through product category innovation. These factors contribute to the continued interest and growth potential within the industry, even amidst global economic uncertainties.

01/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Brands Adapt Social Media Strategies From Facebook to Tiktok

US Brands Adapt Social Media Strategies From Facebook to Tiktok

This article analyzes the characteristics and marketing strategies of mainstream social media platforms in the United States. Brands should select platforms based on their target audience and implement precise marketing to achieve growth. Understanding platform nuances and tailoring content accordingly is crucial for effective engagement. Key considerations include platform demographics, content formats, and advertising options. Successful social media marketing in the US market requires a data-driven approach and continuous optimization to maximize ROI.

01/06/2026 Logistics
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Southeast Asias Ecommerce Faces Disruption with Plugos D2C Push

Southeast Asias Ecommerce Faces Disruption with Plugos D2C Push

Singapore-based eCommerce SaaS platform Plugo has raised $9 million in Series A funding to help D2C brands build independent online stores in Southeast Asia, aiming to challenge Shopify. Plugo will initially launch in Indonesia before expanding across Southeast Asia. The platform provides tools and infrastructure for brands to create and manage their own online presence, offering an alternative to relying solely on marketplaces or existing eCommerce platforms. This funding will accelerate Plugo's growth and product development in the region.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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