Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

The FTR Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) fell below zero in August, the first time since October 2022, indicating a worsening environment for shippers. Soaring diesel prices were the primary driver, offsetting the benefits of ample capacity. Shippers face challenges such as increased transportation costs and reduced bargaining power. Strategies for shippers include optimizing routes and building long-term partnerships. Data-driven decision-making is crucial for enhancing freight resilience. The index suggests shippers need to proactively adapt to the changing market dynamics to mitigate potential negative impacts.

01/18/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
WCO Boosts Namibias Anticounterfeiting Efforts in IP Program

WCO Boosts Namibias Anticounterfeiting Efforts in IP Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched its Intellectual Property Health and Safety (IPHS) Programme, with the first online training successfully held in Namibia. This initiative aims to enhance customs' ability to combat counterfeiting and piracy, particularly focusing on illicit medical goods during the pandemic. The WCO emphasizes customs' responsibility and provides tools to address these challenges. Funded by Japan Customs, the program seeks to strengthen international cooperation through information sharing, joint enforcement operations, capacity building, and public awareness campaigns, ultimately safeguarding global trade security.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
US Multimodal Transport Faces Supply Chain Challenges Experts Warn

US Multimodal Transport Faces Supply Chain Challenges Experts Warn

Multimodal expert Larry Gross highlighted significant challenges facing US intermodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, citing port congestion, capacity constraints, and declining market share. He emphasized the diffused responsibility for the supply chain crisis, advocating for increased resilience. Gross predicted a future market shift from west to east, with a corresponding increase in trucking's share. While the damage inflicted in 2021 is repairable, it will require substantial effort. The focus should be on building a more robust and adaptable intermodal system to mitigate future disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
WCO Updates Customs Lab Handbook to Boost Regional Standards

WCO Updates Customs Lab Handbook to Boost Regional Standards

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has updated its Customs Laboratory Guide, adding Annex V, which provides information on Regional Customs Laboratories (RCLs) and the procedures and requirements for establishing them. This initiative aims to strengthen regional capacity building, assisting members in upgrading their laboratories and becoming regional benchmarks. The guide, available in English and French on the WCO Members' website, serves as a crucial resource for customs laboratory advancement. It promotes cooperation and knowledge sharing within regions to enhance analytical capabilities and facilitate trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Introduces Certification for Postclearance Audits in Francophone Africa

WCO Introduces Certification for Postclearance Audits in Francophone Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a French-speaking Customs Post Clearance Audit (PCA) Technical and Operational Advisor Certification Program to develop a highly qualified team of experts and enhance PCA capabilities in French-speaking regions. The inaugural seminar was successfully held at WCO headquarters. Through rigorous selection and a combination of theoretical and practical training, this program lays the foundation for customs capacity building in the French-speaking area. The initiative aims to strengthen post-clearance controls and improve overall customs efficiency within the region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Mongolia Launches Customs Program to Train Reformminded Executives

Mongolia Launches Customs Program to Train Reformminded Executives

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a leadership development workshop for Mongolian Customs, aiming to enhance the leadership skills of senior managers and promote customs reform. The workshop emphasized 'knowing yourself' and 'managing yourself', covering topics such as leadership, ethics, and communication. Participants reflected on their management styles and committed to improvements. The workshop prompted Mongolian Customs to improve its training system, laying the foundation for customs modernization. It focused on building the capacity of Mongolian Customs officials to effectively lead and manage change within their organization.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Azerbaijan Expands AEO Program to Facilitate Silk Road Trade

Azerbaijan Expands AEO Program to Facilitate Silk Road Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Azerbaijan Customs in accelerating its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, aiming to enhance supply chain security and improve trade efficiency. Through capacity-building workshops and the development of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs), Azerbaijan is poised to better leverage its strategic geographic location as a key node on the 'Silk Road' to foster economic development. This initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures and promote a more secure and efficient trading environment for businesses operating in and through Azerbaijan.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Comoros Boosts Customs Skills for WTO Accession Bid

Comoros Boosts Customs Skills for WTO Accession Bid

A joint WTO-WCO workshop aimed to enhance Comoros' customs valuation capabilities in preparation for WTO accession. The workshop covered topics such as customs valuation methods, pre-shipment inspection, and trade facilitation. The goal was to assist Comoros in establishing an efficient and transparent trade system to promote economic development. The experience of Comoros can offer valuable insights for other developing countries seeking to improve their trade practices and integrate into the global trading system. This initiative highlights the importance of capacity building for successful WTO membership.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO and WTO Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

WCO and WTO Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the World Trade Organization (WTO), held an advanced training course in Geneva for chairpersons of National Trade Facilitation Committees from French-speaking countries. The course aimed to enhance their understanding of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and improve their communication and collaboration skills with stakeholders. The curriculum was based on WCO's capacity building materials and introduced key tools such as the Mercator Program. Both organizations will continue their collaboration to organize similar courses for Spanish-speaking countries.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WTO and WCO Partner to Enhance Global Trade Living Standards

WTO and WCO Partner to Enhance Global Trade Living Standards

The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) emphasized the crucial role of collaboration between trade and customs communities in improving global well-being at the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council meeting. By strengthening information sharing, capacity building, and technological innovation, the WTO and WCO can jointly build a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable global trading system. This cooperation is essential for facilitating trade, ensuring security, and promoting economic development worldwide. The focus is on streamlining processes and fostering a collaborative environment for mutual benefit.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More