WCO and ICC Partner to Strengthen WTO Customs Valuation Rules

WCO and ICC Partner to Strengthen WTO Customs Valuation Rules

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have a long-standing collaboration to promote the global application of the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement. In 2000, they issued a joint declaration aimed at promoting uniform, transparent, and fair customs valuation standards. This collaboration seeks to foster global trade compliance, transparency, and facilitation, ultimately reducing trade costs for businesses. The joint efforts emphasize the importance of consistent and predictable customs valuation practices for efficient and equitable international trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Economic Recovery Strained by Aging Population Regulations

US Economic Recovery Strained by Aging Population Regulations

U.S. Chamber of Commerce executive R. Bruce Josten warns that demographic challenges and excessive government regulation are jeopardizing the U.S. economic recovery. He stresses the urgency of welfare reform and the critical importance of supply chain efficiency, while criticizing the lack of common sense in government regulation. Political analysts predict a tight presidential election, with Republicans potentially maintaining control of the House of Representatives, and the Senate's fate remaining uncertain. These factors collectively present significant headwinds for sustained economic growth.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trumps Infrastructure Plan Stalls Over Funding Dispute

Trumps Infrastructure Plan Stalls Over Funding Dispute

US President Trump has reiterated his $1.5 trillion infrastructure plan, but questions remain regarding the funding sources. The freight industry is advocating for greater emphasis on intermodal transportation, with the Trucking Associations suggesting an increase in fuel taxes. The Chamber of Commerce emphasizes innovative thinking, urging businesses to seize infrastructure opportunities and highlighting the critical role of digital infrastructure for the drone economy. The lack of clarity on financing continues to be a major point of contention surrounding the proposed plan.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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ICC WCO Partner to Simplify Global Trade Processes

ICC WCO Partner to Simplify Global Trade Processes

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the World Customs Organization (WCO) continue their collaboration, focusing on trade facilitation and discussing key issues such as origin verification, transit, and single windows. They pay particular attention to the role and position of SMEs in global trade, jointly seeking best practices to support them. The aim is to build a more open, inclusive, and efficient global trading system. This ongoing partnership underscores the commitment to simplifying trade processes and empowering SMEs to participate effectively in the international marketplace.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Standards Accelerate Global Trade Digitalization

WCO Standards Accelerate Global Trade Digitalization

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the crucial role of data and technology in driving the global digital transformation of trade at the ICC Future Trade Forum, introducing relevant WCO initiatives. He advocated for the adoption of the WCO Data Model to promote interoperability of trade standards and explored collaboration opportunities with Singapore Customs, the International Chamber of Commerce, and APEC. The aim is to enhance trade efficiency, security, and inclusivity through standardized data and technological advancements in customs procedures and international trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ukchina Partnership Boosts Chinese Firms Global Growth

Ukchina Partnership Boosts Chinese Firms Global Growth

The British Chamber of Commerce in Southern China successfully held its annual flagship forum, focusing on Chinese companies expanding into the UK and global markets. Through strategic cooperation with the China Overseas Investment Service Center, a systematic service framework was built, employing a 'one horizontal, multiple vertical' model to precisely match resources and improve the efficiency of international operations. The forum emphasized the extension of China-UK cooperation into professional services, highlighting trust and resilience as crucial for sustainable growth, ultimately helping Chinese enterprises build global competitiveness.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Qingdao Firms Turn to Crossborder Ecommerce for High ROI

Qingdao Firms Turn to Crossborder Ecommerce for High ROI

A Qingdao chamber of commerce partnered with Shenzhen Bailu Association to host a salon themed "Unlocking the Secrets to High ROI Growth." The event featured Chen Yong, who shared strategies for improving conversion rates in cross-border e-commerce. Focusing on key areas like product title optimization, main image design, and detail page construction, the salon aimed to help Qingdao businesses overcome growth bottlenecks and enhance operational efficiency. The goal was to promote the high-quality development of the local cross-border e-commerce ecosystem.

02/02/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Asian Shippers Push for Transparent Pricing Fair Practices

Asian Shippers Push for Transparent Pricing Fair Practices

The Asian Shippers' Alliance annual meeting adopted an action plan to address rising ocean freight rates and opaque surcharges. The plan includes appeals to the International Chamber of Commerce and the World Trade Organization, advocating for simplified freight rates and reasonable surcharges. It also supports supply chain security measures and urges Asian countries to develop pro-competitive maritime regulations to protect shipper rights. The alliance aims to ensure fee transparency and fair treatment for shippers in the face of increasing costs and complex fee structures in the maritime industry.

09/26/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trade Programs Boost SME Growth with Streamlined Customs

Trade Programs Boost SME Growth with Streamlined Customs

A joint report by the World Customs Organization, World Trade Organization, and International Chamber of Commerce urges customs administrations to remove barriers hindering SMEs' participation in global trade, emphasizing their vital role in the global economy. The report analyzes the challenges faced by SMEs and proposes recommendations for their integration into Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs. Through case studies, it showcases successful experiences, aiming to build a more inclusive and resilient global trading system. The report highlights the need for simplified procedures and enhanced access to information for SMEs to thrive in international markets.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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