The 36th Annual Logistics Report reveals that in an uncertain market environment, the logistics industry is responding to rising costs and trade challenges through digital transformation and operational model innovation, exploring new pathways for sustainable development.
With WCO support, Nigeria and Ghana jointly organized a training of trainers program on valuation, aiming to enhance customs valuation capabilities and promote trade facilitation in both countries. Following the termination of contracts with private inspection companies and the return of valuation responsibilities to customs, this training covered technical valuation, valuation control, and trainer skills. The goal is to strengthen the national valuation trainer pool in both countries, injecting new momentum into trade development in West Africa. This initiative is expected to improve valuation accuracy and efficiency, ultimately contributing to smoother trade flows.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Korea Customs Service (KCS), is upgrading the CLiKC! e-learning platform to enhance the capacity of customs officials worldwide to address emerging technologies and global trade trends. By developing new courses, optimizing platform technology, and expanding language support, this project will provide higher-quality training resources for customs personnel and supply chain partners. This initiative aims to promote global trade facilitation and international customs cooperation, ultimately strengthening the global customs community's ability to navigate the complexities of modern trade.
The 8th meeting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Working Group on Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) was held in Brussels, focusing on the implementation of the TFA and international cooperation. The meeting highlighted the WCO's crucial role in TFA implementation, discussed topics such as the establishment of National Trade Facilitation Committees and Coordinated Border Management, and promoted the TFA Implementation Guide. The meeting also elected the new chair and vice-chair, and looked forward to future work. The emphasis was on practical steps and collaborative efforts to streamline trade processes globally.
The US Services PMI unexpectedly fell below 50 in May, ending ten consecutive months of growth. A significant decline in new orders was primarily driven by trade friction and uncertainty. Sector performance was mixed, with slight employment growth. The future development of the service sector needs to address challenges related to trade, inflation, demand, and supply chains, while also seizing opportunities in technological innovation and consumption upgrades. The unexpected contraction raises concerns about a potential economic slowdown and the impact of ongoing trade tensions on the service sector's performance.
The 18th meeting of the WCO SAFE Working Group focused on global trade security and facilitation. It laid the groundwork for a safer and more efficient international supply chain through strengthened inter-agency cooperation, updates to the SAFE Framework of Standards, and improvements to the AEO and MRA toolkits. A breakthrough was achieved regarding the Trade Identification Number (TIN) structure. Key issues such as data analysis and integrated supply chain management were also discussed, injecting new momentum into global trade development. The meeting emphasized collaborative efforts to enhance security and streamline customs processes worldwide.
COSCO Shipping launched the "Wuhan-Xiamen-Europe" rail-sea intermodal train service, providing a more convenient and efficient European trade channel for enterprises in central China. This route, through port-shipping coordination, significantly shortens transportation time and reduces logistics costs, boosting economic development in Wuhan and surrounding areas. It also enhances COSCO Shipping's influence in the middle and upper reaches of the Yangtze River.
Bonded goods refer to products that enter China with customs approval and are exempt from taxes. These items can be stored or processed in designated regulatory areas with the intention of being re-exported, thus temporarily avoiding tax liabilities. However, if they are not re-exported, taxes must be paid according to regulations. Understanding this rule helps enterprises engage flexibly in international trade and enhance economic benefits.
The China-Europe Railway Express has rapidly developed over the past decade, becoming a vital logistics corridor connecting Asia and Europe. It not only addresses today's geopolitical crises, providing stable support for international trade, but also fuels economic development in the countries along the route. As an essential component of the Belt and Road Initiative, the railway promotes regional connectivity and fosters cooperation and prosperity among nations.
The Asia-Pacific region holds a significant position in the global air cargo market. Despite challenges like global economic slowdown and high oil prices, strong growth in China and India provides support. By improving efficiency, innovation, and risk management, Asia-Pacific airlines are expected to maintain their leadership and contribute to global trade. Global economic growth forecasts and technological advancements will also influence the market.
