Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho South Africa Study Customs Efficiency to Boost Trade

Lesotho and South Africa jointly released an end-to-end clearance time study report, aiming to optimize border management and improve cross-border trade efficiency. The study focuses on the Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge border posts, highlighting the importance of trade facilitation in unlocking the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Both countries are committed to implementing the report's recommendations, strengthening economic ties, and promoting regional economic development. The study underscores the critical role of efficient border procedures in fostering trade and growth within the region.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Agencies Crack Down on Illegal Wildlife Trade

Global Customs Agencies Crack Down on Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Environment Programme, in collaboration with customs administrations from 11 countries, is enhancing capabilities to combat illegal wildlife trade (IWT) through online diagnostic assessments. Focusing on key areas such as training, enforcement, legislation, cooperation, intelligence, and risk management, the program tailors solutions and gathers international experts to build a global anti-smuggling defense line and safeguard ecological security. The initiative aims to improve customs' effectiveness in detecting and preventing the trafficking of endangered species and related products.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a high-level Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) seminar in Nigeria, empowering customs administrations from four West African countries. By raising awareness of gender mainstreaming, focusing on gender and security issues, and utilizing the GEOAT tool, the seminar assisted customs departments in developing and implementing GED action plans. The aim is to promote trade security, inclusive development, and address the challenges faced by women in cross-border trade. This initiative strengthens customs capacity to better serve all members of society.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Comoros Streamlines Customs with WCO Support to Boost Trade

Comoros Streamlines Customs with WCO Support to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Comoros in acceding to the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), which aims to streamline customs procedures and promote trade facilitation. Through national workshops and expert support, the WCO assists Comoros in assessing gaps, developing action plans, and communicating with high-level government officials. This ensures Comoros meets the conditions for joining the RKC by June 2019, embracing a new era of global economy. The initiative helps Comoros modernize its customs practices and integrate more effectively into the international trading system.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Merger of Container Shipping Giants: Future Prospects of COSCO and China Shipping

Merger of Container Shipping Giants: Future Prospects of COSCO and China Shipping

COSCO Shipping and China Shipping are expected to receive merger approval by January, officially forming "China Ocean Shipping Group Co., Ltd." This merger will create the world's fourth-largest container shipping company. The complexity of the merger involves integrating overlapping departments and maintaining employee stability, with a total deal value potentially exceeding $20 billion. This merger will reshape the shipping markets of China and the world.

07/21/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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WTO Updates Global Trade Guidelines with Expanded Single Window System

WTO Updates Global Trade Guidelines with Expanded Single Window System

The WCO Single Window Guidelines need updating to reflect evolving trade practices. Recommendations include integrating technology, strengthening risk management, learning from best practices, and collaborative updates. This aims to build an efficient, secure, and inclusive system that facilitates seamless cross-border trade. The updated guidelines should address emerging challenges and opportunities in the global trade landscape, ensuring that Single Window systems remain relevant and effective in promoting trade facilitation and economic growth.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ivory Coast Enhances Customs Training for Advanced Ruling System

Ivory Coast Enhances Customs Training for Advanced Ruling System

Côte d'Ivoire is actively enhancing its customs classification skills in preparation for implementing an advance rulings system, aligning with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. With support from the EU and Germany, Côte d'Ivoire held a customs classification workshop aimed at developing expertise, improving trade facilitation, and contributing to global trade. The advance rulings system, a key mechanism, will enhance trade predictability, reduce costs, promote compliance, and facilitate Côte d'Ivoire's integration into the global trading system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Japan Philippines Sign Trade Pact to Ease Shipping Delays

US Japan Philippines Sign Trade Pact to Ease Shipping Delays

The United States recently signed a new trade agreement with Japan and the Philippines to promote economic cooperation and enhance trade fluidity. However, with the increase in trade, serious congestion in trans-Pacific shipping has emerged, necessitating measures to ensure transport efficiency and ensure mutual benefits for the three countries.

07/24/2025 Logistics
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Hong Kong Files WTO Complaint Over US Tariffs

Hong Kong Files WTO Complaint Over US Tariffs

The Hong Kong SAR government has filed a complaint with the WTO regarding the US's imposition of tariffs, citing violations of WTO rules and disregard for Hong Kong's status as a separate customs territory. This action aims to protect Hong Kong's trade interests, defend multilateral trade principles, and promote the resolution of international trade disputes. Hong Kong will closely monitor developments, safeguard its trade position, and calls on the international community to jointly uphold WTO rules.

11/03/2025 Customs Knowledge
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European Shipping Firms Adapt to Tariff Challenges

European Shipping Firms Adapt to Tariff Challenges

Trump's tariff policies present challenges to the European aviation industry, with a sharp decline in UK business confidence. Consolidation companies face opportunities such as trade structure adjustments and regional trade growth, but also challenges like trade volume fluctuations, rising costs, and increased competition. To cope, companies need to establish risk management systems, diversify their operations, innovate technologically, and strengthen strategic partnerships. These strategies are crucial for navigating the evolving trade landscape and mitigating potential negative impacts.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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