Extransportation Secretary Skeptical of US Infrastructure Bill

Extransportation Secretary Skeptical of US Infrastructure Bill

Former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood expressed concerns about the prospects of a long-term transportation bill in the US, citing the complexities of transportation and federal policy as hindering infrastructure progress. Insufficient funding and increasing partisan divisions exacerbate the difficulties. Factors such as environmental protection and labor rights further complicate policymaking. America's transportation infrastructure faces significant challenges, requiring innovative solutions and bipartisan cooperation to overcome these obstacles and ensure future development and sustainability.

Japan WCO Aid Haiti in Boosting Disaster Response Postquake

Japan WCO Aid Haiti in Boosting Disaster Response Postquake

With funding from the Government of Japan, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a capacity building workshop in Haiti. The aim was to enhance the ability of Haitian Customs and related agencies to respond to emergencies such as natural disasters and infectious diseases. By strengthening Customs' role in disaster management, improving staff skills, promoting inter-agency cooperation, and refining emergency plans, the initiative supports Haiti in building a more robust disaster response system.

US Imports Stay Strong Amid Labor Disruptions Supply Chains Resilient

US Imports Stay Strong Amid Labor Disruptions Supply Chains Resilient

Brief strikes at US East Coast and Gulf Coast ports did not prevent continued import growth. The Port Tracker report forecasts sustained high US import volumes, but businesses must focus on supply chain risks and improve resilience. Labor-management cooperation and corporate innovation are key to addressing future challenges. Despite potential disruptions, the overall trend suggests a robust import market demanding proactive risk management strategies for businesses relying on global supply chains.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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WCO Boosts Global Ecommerce Via Collaboration Innovation

WCO Boosts Global Ecommerce Via Collaboration Innovation

The World Customs Organization (WCO) hosted the 2nd Global Cross-Border E-Commerce Conference, bringing together global experts to discuss key issues such as optimizing regulatory frameworks, improving trade efficiency, and ensuring security and compliance. The conference emphasized data-driven risk management, simplified customs clearance procedures, consumer rights protection, and capacity building and cooperation. It injected new impetus into the WCO's future work, helping cross-border e-commerce become an engine of global economic growth.

WCO JICA Enhance Customs Training in Southern Africa

WCO JICA Enhance Customs Training in Southern Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) joint project successfully held the second working group activity in Mozambique. The aim was to enhance customs valuation capabilities in five Southern African countries and promote regional trade facilitation. The activity focused on improving training skills, with experts sharing experiences and participants actively engaging. This laid the foundation for building a high-quality trainer pool and improving the regional training system.

US Rail Operators Under Persistent Scrutiny Amid Slow Service Recovery

US Rail Operators Under Persistent Scrutiny Amid Slow Service Recovery

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the requirement for the four major railroads to submit service recovery reports and added reporting metrics, aiming to address the issue that rail service has not recovered to pre-pandemic levels. Key challenges include labor shortages, infrastructure bottlenecks, and demand fluctuations. Service delays and increased costs negatively impact the supply chain. Collaborative efforts are needed, including increased investment, optimized operations, and strengthened cooperation, to revitalize rail transport.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Datadriven Customs Modernize Global Trade for Security Efficiency

Datadriven Customs Modernize Global Trade for Security Efficiency

Interconnected Customs (DRI) is a strategic concept of the World Customs Organization to promote global trade security and facilitation. It aims to enhance collaboration and information sharing among customs administrations worldwide. However, the implementation of DRI faces challenges such as data security and privacy concerns. Strengthening international cooperation and developing robust data governance frameworks are crucial to address these challenges and fully realize the potential of DRI in facilitating legitimate trade and combating illicit activities.

ATA and Istanbul Conventions Adopt Digital Trade Measures

ATA and Istanbul Conventions Adopt Digital Trade Measures

The ATA & Istanbul Conventions Conference focused on the electronic transformation of ATA Carnets and the conventions themselves. The aim is to simplify customs procedures, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, ultimately facilitating international trade. Digitalization promises streamlined processes, faster clearance times, and enhanced data security. This shift towards electronic systems aligns with global efforts to modernize trade and promote greater economic cooperation by removing trade barriers and fostering a more efficient and transparent environment for businesses.

US Consumers Stay Resilient Amid 2025 Tariff Supply Chain Concerns

US Consumers Stay Resilient Amid 2025 Tariff Supply Chain Concerns

The Wells Fargo 2025 Supply Chain Report indicates that U.S. consumers remain resilient despite tariff uncertainties, supporting the market. Businesses are adjusting import strategies, and the retail sector is adopting a cautious approach. The report forecasts a more resilient, innovative, and collaborative supply chain, with digital transformation, sustainability, regional cooperation, and risk management as key trends. Companies are focusing on building stronger supply chains to navigate future disruptions and ensure continued market access.

Kazakhstan Boosts Customs Oversight with WCO Training

Kazakhstan Boosts Customs Oversight with WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a risk analysis workshop in Kazakhstan to enhance the risk management capabilities of the Tax Committee. The workshop aimed to optimize profiling processes, ensuring economic security and trade facilitation. The initiative supports Kazakhstan's efforts to improve its customs procedures and strengthen international cooperation in risk management. By focusing on effective risk analysis, the program contributes to a safer and more efficient trading environment for Kazakhstan and its partners.