Shipping Companies Face FMC Investigation Over Risk of Penalties for Urging Return of Empty Containers or Refusing Export Services

Shipping Companies Face FMC Investigation Over Risk of Penalties for Urging Return of Empty Containers or Refusing Export Services

Due to labor shortages caused by the pandemic, ports in Southern California are severely congested. Shipping companies are eager to send empty containers back to Asia, potentially neglecting services for U.S. exporters. If the charges against the carriers are confirmed, the Federal Maritime Commission will impose fines, emphasizing the responsibility of the shipping industry to comply with laws and regulations.

07/23/2025 Logistics
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WCO Belgian Customs College Enhance Francophone Africa Customs Training

WCO Belgian Customs College Enhance Francophone Africa Customs Training

This paper analyzes a capacity-building program for Francophone African customs officials, a collaboration between the Belgian Customs Academy and the World Customs Organization. The program, employing methods like curriculum supplementation, field visits, and virtual reality training, aims to enhance the professional skills of African customs officials and their ability to navigate complex trade environments. The article highlights the importance of regional cooperation, localized application, technological innovation, and evaluation mechanisms in capacity building. It also provides relevant recommendations for improving future programs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and Eswatini Revenue Authority Launch Training Evaluation Pilot

WCO and Eswatini Revenue Authority Launch Training Evaluation Pilot

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Eswatini Revenue Authority (ERA), launched a pilot training evaluation project to enhance customs officers' capabilities and optimize processes. This project utilizes a five-level evaluation model to comprehensively assess training effectiveness and support the HS-Africa Project and the Training of Trainers program. The project's findings will be shared at the WCO Capacity Building Committee meeting, contributing to global customs capacity building efforts. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness within customs administrations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Laos Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Reform

Laos Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Reform

In 2017, the WCO conducted a tariff classification capacity building project in Laos to improve its classification skills, establish an advance ruling system, and implement HS 2017. Through workshops, tool applications, and expert guidance, the capacity of Lao Customs officials was enhanced, laying the foundation for trade facilitation. The experience of Chinese Customs also provided a reference for Laos. This initiative serves as a model of international cooperation in promoting trade facilitation and contributes to the economic development of Laos.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Aviation Leasing Market Shifts As Supply Chains Disrupt

Aviation Leasing Market Shifts As Supply Chains Disrupt

Uneven global air capacity recovery and supply chain bottlenecks are exacerbating aircraft delivery challenges. Airlines are increasingly reliant on the leasing market to address capacity shortages, driving up lease rates and giving lessors greater negotiating power. Industry experts disagree on the timeline for supply recovery, and rising cost pressures may dampen demand. Airlines need to strengthen their fleet planning to navigate these challenges. The surge in leasing demand highlights the critical role of aircraft leasing in supporting airline operations amidst ongoing disruptions.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Rates Unaffected by Stricter English Proficiency Rules

US Trucking Rates Unaffected by Stricter English Proficiency Rules

Increased enforcement of English proficiency standards for truck drivers in the US aims to improve road safety. Analysis suggests a limited impact on overall capacity and freight rates, despite rising violation and out-of-service rates. Truck freight rates are primarily driven by demand, not supply. While localized capacity constraints may occur in the short term, long-term effects are still being assessed. Future monitoring should focus on macroeconomic conditions and market demand fluctuations to fully understand the implications of this policy.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO and Sida Collaborate to Modernize African Customs

WCO and Sida Collaborate to Modernize African Customs

The WCO, in partnership with Sida, launched the "Project to Promote Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization" aimed at enhancing customs capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa. The project optimizes the cross-border trade environment, fostering economic growth and poverty reduction. It focuses on strategic capacity building, operational efficiency improvements, promotion of trade facilitation measures, strengthened regional cooperation, and ensuring sustainable development. The initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures and reduce trade barriers, ultimately contributing to increased trade flows and economic prosperity in the region.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Trucking Industry Adapts to Evolving HOS Regulations for Efficiency

Trucking Industry Adapts to Evolving HOS Regulations for Efficiency

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the impact of HOS regulations on the logistics industry, covering areas such as long-haul transportation, market conditions, CSA scores, restart provisions, industry lobbying, capacity challenges, productivity losses, expert opinions, regulatory scrutiny, safety culture, and capacity monitoring. The aim is to help companies understand regulatory dynamics, optimize operations, reduce costs, and enhance competitiveness. By examining these key aspects, the paper offers valuable insights for navigating the complexities of HOS regulations and improving overall logistics performance.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Bangladesh Customs Tightens IP Enforcement Against Counterfeit Goods

Bangladesh Customs Tightens IP Enforcement Against Counterfeit Goods

The World Customs Organization held an intellectual property rights protection workshop in Bangladesh to enhance the country's customs capabilities in combating cross-border infringement and counterfeiting. The workshop covered both theoretical and practical aspects, focusing on the challenges posed by e-commerce and emphasizing cooperation and exchange. Bangladesh Customs faces challenges such as weak enforcement capacity and outdated regulatory technology. Future efforts should focus on strengthening capacity building, improving laws and regulations, and enhancing international cooperation to effectively combat IP infringement.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Customs Modernization Enhances Efficiency Training

West Africa Customs Modernization Enhances Efficiency Training

The WACAM project, funded by SIDA, aims to promote regional trade development by enhancing the capacity of West African Customs in human resources, stakeholder relations, and resource mobilization through workshops. The project focuses on Customs Modernization and Capacity Building, specifically targeting improvements in skills and knowledge. By facilitating better collaboration and resource management, WACAM contributes to a more efficient and effective customs environment, ultimately fostering economic growth within the region. The project's emphasis on Resource Mobilization ensures sustainable operations and long-term impact.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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