Pacific Nations Strengthen Customs to Spur Economic Growth

Pacific Nations Strengthen Customs to Spur Economic Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has launched the Master Training Program (MTP) to develop regional taxation experts in Pacific Island Countries. This initiative aims to enhance customs valuation and commodity classification capabilities, thereby addressing tax revenue leakages and promoting sustainable economic development. Focusing on the specific taxation challenges faced by these island nations, the program builds a pool of expert trainers and develops specialized training materials. This provides a solid foundation for regional customs capacity building and contributes to improved revenue collection.

Sherwinwilliams Invests 300M in NC Plant to Strengthen Resin Supply

Sherwinwilliams Invests 300M in NC Plant to Strengthen Resin Supply

Sherwin-Williams is investing $300 million to expand its North Carolina facility, boosting its coatings production capacity and resin self-sufficiency. This investment aims to address supply shortages and inflationary pressures within the coatings market. The expansion will create approximately 180 new jobs. By increasing internal resin production, Sherwin-Williams seeks to mitigate disruptions in the supply chain and control costs, ensuring a more stable and reliable supply of raw materials for its coatings manufacturing operations. This strategic move enhances the company's resilience in a volatile economic environment.

Freight Market Resilient in November Amid Winter Challenges

Freight Market Resilient in November Amid Winter Challenges

DAT's latest report indicates that while overall freight volumes declined in November, they showed growth within the month. Dry van and refrigerated freight volumes decreased year-over-year, while flatbed volumes increased. Freight rates continued to decline due to excess capacity. Experts predict spot rates may have bottomed out and are expected to rebound in Q1 of next year, with the market moving towards normalization. Freight companies need to pay attention to market dynamics and respond flexibly. The report highlights the need for adaptability in the current freight environment.

US Truckload Market September Volumes Fall Rates Rise

US Truckload Market September Volumes Fall Rates Rise

In September, the US truckload market experienced a decline in volume but a rise in prices. The DAT index indicated a drop in dry van and refrigerated truckload volumes, with a slight increase in flatbed volume. Spot rates saw a minor increase, attributed by experts to freight imbalances and capacity shifts rather than genuine demand. The outlook for the upcoming peak season is pessimistic, with anticipated weak volumes. Some carriers may benefit from higher freight rates. The market faces increased uncertainty, requiring stakeholders to enhance risk management and adapt flexibly.

UPS Expands Cologne Hub with 200M Investment to Boost Global Trade

UPS Expands Cologne Hub with 200M Investment to Boost Global Trade

UPS announced a $200 million expansion of its European air hub at Cologne/Bonn Airport in Germany to meet growing global trade demands. The expansion will significantly increase package sorting capacity, create new jobs, and incorporate state-of-the-art sorting technology, further solidifying Cologne/Bonn Airport's position as a leading logistics center in Europe. This investment reflects UPS's confidence in the long-term growth of global trade and its commitment to providing exceptional service to its customers. The upgraded facility will enhance efficiency and support faster delivery times for businesses worldwide.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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TIA President Discusses Postpandemic US Freight Industry Challenges

TIA President Discusses Postpandemic US Freight Industry Challenges

This article provides an in-depth analysis of Anne Reinke, President and CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), on the current freight economy and brokerage market. It covers key issues such as the impact of the pandemic, capacity supply and demand, rate pricing, 3PL profits, and peak season expectations. The article also explores the role of TIA in industry development and its future prospects, offering insights for freight companies to address challenges and seize opportunities. It serves as a valuable resource for navigating the evolving landscape of freight transportation.

RXO Acquires Coyote Logistics Transforming North American Freight Brokerage

RXO Acquires Coyote Logistics Transforming North American Freight Brokerage

RXO's $1.025 billion acquisition of Coyote Logistics aims to expand its footprint in the North American freight brokerage market, positioning it as the third-largest provider. This move will significantly enhance RXO's capacity, customer base, and technological synergies. Simultaneously, UPS's sale of Coyote reflects a strategic shift, focusing on its core small package business. The transaction signals a reshaping of the market landscape and raises questions about future trends in the logistics industry. The deal highlights the ongoing consolidation and strategic realignments within the competitive freight brokerage sector.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Mozambique Modernizes Tax HR with WCO Assistance

Mozambique Modernizes Tax HR with WCO Assistance

At the invitation of the Mozambique Tax Authority (MRA) and with funding from the CCF-China, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of MRA's Human Resource Management (HRM) system modernization. The aim was to address HR challenges and achieve strategic goals by optimizing the HR framework. The assessment included meetings, interviews, and workshops, culminating in recommendations for improvement submitted to the MRA. The Commissioner General of MRA expressed optimism for future collaboration. This initiative highlights the importance of HR upgrades and customs cooperation for effective capacity building within customs administrations.

West Africa Enhances Customs Risk Management During Pandemic

West Africa Enhances Customs Risk Management During Pandemic

Supported by the WCO/JICA joint project, West African Customs administrations continued to enhance their risk management and intelligence analysis capabilities during the pandemic through online training. The MTP project, involving six countries including Benin, aims to cultivate a team of experts proficient in these skills and has made significant progress. By adopting innovative training methods, the project overcame the challenges posed by the pandemic and injected new momentum into customs capacity building in West Africa. The online format allowed for continued learning and development despite travel restrictions and social distancing measures.

WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

WCO Aids Ethiopia in Trade Risk Management Boost

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a risk management diagnostic of the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) to enhance its risk management effectiveness and promote trade facilitation. Through in-depth research, multi-stakeholder engagement, on-site visits, and supply chain analysis, the WCO tailored solutions for ERCA and proposed a capacity building action plan. This initiative aims to help Ethiopia establish a more efficient and secure customs administration system. The diagnostic and subsequent recommendations are intended to strengthen ERCA's ability to manage risks effectively and facilitate legitimate trade.