Hungary Aims to Become Central Europes Inland Maritime Hub

Hungary Aims to Become Central Europes Inland Maritime Hub

Hungary, a landlocked country, leverages the Danube River and a well-developed logistics system to serve as a Central European maritime hub. Its strategic port layout, robust logistics infrastructure, and extensive service range contribute to its significance. Facing opportunities from Central European economic growth and Asian cargo flows, Hungary needs to continuously invest in infrastructure and improve port efficiency to address challenges and achieve broader development prospects. This includes optimizing inland waterway transport to handle increasing volumes and maintain its competitive edge.

Armenia Boosts Customs Oversight with WCO Assistance

Armenia Boosts Customs Oversight with WCO Assistance

The WCO assessed Armenia's customs risk management and post-clearance audit (PCA) systems to enhance trade facilitation and compliance with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The assessment aimed to identify areas for improvement and provide recommendations for strengthening these critical functions. Armenia expressed its gratitude for the WCO's support and looks forward to continued collaboration in further developing its customs practices and procedures. The focus is on aligning with international standards and best practices to promote efficient and secure trade flows.

Eastsouthern Africa Customs Officials Tackle Transfer Pricing

Eastsouthern Africa Customs Officials Tackle Transfer Pricing

A joint workshop by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the OECD aimed to enhance the expertise of customs officials in East and Southern Africa on transfer pricing and customs valuation. The initiative promotes regional customs cooperation, maintains fair trade practices, and combats tax evasion. By strengthening the capacity of customs administrations in these areas, the workshop supports efforts to ensure accurate valuation of goods and prevent illicit financial flows, ultimately contributing to a more transparent and equitable global trading system.

West and Central Africa Strengthen Antismuggling with Joint Customs Training

West and Central Africa Strengthen Antismuggling with Joint Customs Training

The online seminar for West and Central African Customs enhanced intelligence analysis capabilities to combat customs fraud and transnational crime. The training focused on WCO intelligence policies, RILO liaison, and other key areas. This initiative aimed to strengthen regional cooperation among customs administrations in the region. By improving information sharing and analytical skills, the seminar contributes to more effective border control and a safer trade environment. The ultimate goal is to disrupt illicit activities and promote legitimate trade flows within the region.

Ghanas Takoradi Port Berths Record 300000ton Vessel

Ghanas Takoradi Port Berths Record 300000ton Vessel

Ghana's Takoradi Port is set to receive the 'CBS Years', a 300,000-tonne bulk carrier, the largest ever in West Africa. This marks a new era for Ghana's maritime industry, expected to significantly boost bulk cargo exports, increase export revenue, and drive economic growth. Comprehensive technical and operational preparations, including personnel training and risk assessments, have been undertaken to ensure safe berthing and cargo handling. This upgrade demonstrates Ghana's commitment to modernizing its port infrastructure and facilitating increased trade flows.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Tariffs Threaten EU Ecommerce Amid Greenland Row

US Tariffs Threaten EU Ecommerce Amid Greenland Row

The US is considering imposing tariffs on several countries, citing Greenland as justification, potentially impacting 60% of westbound air cargo. This poses challenges for cross-border e-commerce, including increased costs and heightened competition. The British Logistics Association urges caution, warning against destabilizing global supply chains. Sellers need to prepare for these potential changes. The proposed tariffs could significantly disrupt international trade flows and force businesses to adapt their strategies to mitigate the impact of increased import duties and potential retaliatory measures.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Forms Task Force to Address Shipping Supply Chain Crisis

US Forms Task Force to Address Shipping Supply Chain Crisis

The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has established a "Supply Chain Innovation Team" to address challenges in ocean shipping caused by the pandemic, including empty container accumulation, refrigerated container shortages, and vessel delays. By bringing together representatives from various sectors, the team aims to identify innovative solutions and coordinate actions to alleviate the pandemic's impact on the global supply chain and ensure smooth trade flows. The initiative seeks to find practical ways to improve efficiency and resilience within the current system.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Turkey Calls for Global Cooperation on Transit Trade Sanctions

Turkey Calls for Global Cooperation on Transit Trade Sanctions

Turkey has submitted a proposal to the WTO aimed at regulating transit trade penalty measures and preventing abuse that hinders trade flows. The proposal suggests applying penalty constraints applicable to import and export trade, with modifications, to transit trade. This aims to ensure fair and transparent penalty principles, promote trade facilitation, enhance efficiency, guarantee fairness, and ultimately promote economic development and global supply chain stability. The proposal seeks to prevent disproportionate penalties that disrupt transit routes and negatively impact landlocked developing countries.

New HS 2028 Rules Target Global Plastic Waste

New HS 2028 Rules Target Global Plastic Waste

To address the growing plastic pollution crisis, the HS 2028 version introduces new subheadings designed to enhance the monitoring of plastic waste flows and assist countries in better implementing the Basel Convention. These new regulations provide clearer guidance for customs enforcement and corporate compliance through more refined classifications, potentially curbing the illegal transboundary movement of plastic waste. This update aims to improve the tracking and management of plastic waste, contributing to global efforts to reduce plastic pollution and promote responsible waste management practices.

WCO Enhances Customs Training in Francophone Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Training in Francophone Africa

With EU funding, the WCO held a workshop in Burkina Faso to enhance the expertise of Customs administrations in French-speaking African countries, specifically in areas like commodity classification. The training aimed to improve customs efficiency and contribute to trade facilitation within the region. The workshop focused on practical skills and knowledge transfer to strengthen customs operations and promote smoother trade flows. This initiative underscores the WCO's commitment to supporting its members in Africa and fostering economic development through improved customs practices.