The China Port and Dock Association (CPHA), as the national industry organization, is committed to promoting the modernization of port infrastructure, enhancing international competitiveness, and fostering cooperation and information sharing within the industry. Additionally, it actively participates in the construction of the global shipping network and sustainable development.
A Customs Valuation and Fraud Workshop was held in Jordan, supported by the World Customs Organization and the China Customs Cooperation Fund. The workshop aimed to enhance the professional skills of customs officers from North Africa, the Near East, and the Middle East. It focused on the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation, the application of the Revenue Package, and fraud response. Through case studies and risk management discussions, the workshop promoted regional cooperation and the construction of a fair trade environment.
The China-Europe Railway Express, a vital part of the Belt and Road Initiative, enhances trade between China and Europe. The Zhengzhou-Europe Express has operated 150 trains, carrying a total of 60,200 tons of goods, thereby boosting the economies along the route. Other services like the Lin-Man-Europe Express and the Binxin-Europe Express have improved logistics efficiency, reduced transportation and customs costs, and strengthened regional economic cooperation, showcasing the potential for international development in rail freight.
Kyrgyzstan is rapidly emerging as a key transit corridor for China-Russia logistics due to its strategic location and proactive policies. By optimizing customs procedures, developing infrastructure, and actively participating in international cooperation, the country is striving to become a central node in Eurasian cross-border logistics. Despite facing challenges, the completion of key infrastructure projects will further enhance Kyrgyzstan's importance in the international logistics system. The country's geographical advantage positions it well to facilitate trade and transportation between China and Russia.
A direct maritime route from Fujian to Timor-Leste has been officially launched, taking only 7 days from Quanzhou Port, significantly reducing transportation time and promoting economic and trade cooperation between China and Timor-Leste. Customs and border inspection provide efficient services to support the construction of Quanzhou as a key hub port for the Maritime Silk Road and promote 'Made in China' to Southeast Asia. This new route is expected to boost trade and strengthen ties between the two nations.
With policy support, the China-Europe Railway Express and the New Western Land-Sea Corridor have successfully promoted the development of corridor economies. By innovating customs clearance models and enhancing import trade capabilities, these initiatives have fostered international trade cooperation, which will further drive regional economic integration and growth in the future.
With the support of the China Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a virtual workshop on customs valuation for Panama Customs, aiming to enhance its capacity to implement the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation. The workshop covered key concepts, latest developments, and post-clearance audit applications of the Agreement. Through a combination of theory and practice, it improved participants' skills in document review, customs clearance, and risk management. The WCO will continue to deepen cooperation to support global customs capacity building and promote trade prosperity.
The private express delivery industry has experienced significant growth over the past 30 years, becoming a major player in the market. The latest draft of the "Private Economy Promotion Law" emphasizes fair competition and supports private enterprises. Although there is some competition with China Post, there is potential for cooperation in areas like express services.
China and Russia have initiated cooperation on the Arctic shipping route, marking the first mention of this topic in a joint communiqué. As global warming progresses, the Arctic route is becoming increasingly viable, with the potential to significantly alter the global maritime trade landscape by 2030. This route is referred to as the 'golden waterway,' as it can shorten trade distances between China and Europe while reducing transportation costs. The two nations have also agreed on collaboration for the construction of Zarubino Port, enhancing future shipping support.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a leadership and management development workshop in Guangzhou, China, for Chinese Customs. The workshop aimed to enhance the capabilities of Chinese customs administrators and support their reform and modernization efforts. Topics covered included leadership, vision planning, and personnel management. The General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) highly praised the workshop and expressed its desire to continue collaborating with the WCO to build a sustainable talent development system. The GACC anticipates further cooperation to strengthen customs administration and leadership capabilities.
