Bahrain Hosts Regional WTO Trade Facilitation Workshop

Bahrain Hosts Regional WTO Trade Facilitation Workshop

In 2015, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held the 3rd Regional Workshop on the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in Bahrain, aiming to promote understanding and implementation of the TFA in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The workshop brought together customs and trade experts to discuss key TFA provisions, technical assistance, institutional cooperation, and member case studies. During the event, Japan announced its ratification of the TFA, injecting new momentum into trade facilitation efforts in the MENA region.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Team Up to Enhance African Trade Facilitation

WCO JICA Team Up to Enhance African Trade Facilitation

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are strengthening their collaboration to enhance trade facilitation in Africa. This initiative focuses on improving Africa's competitiveness in global value chains through the development of One-Stop Border Posts, capacity building, and the optimization of trade corridors. The WCO Secretary General also lectured scholarship students on strategic priorities, emphasizing information exchange, agreement implementation, and e-commerce regulation. These efforts aim to support sustainable economic development across the African continent.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Kenya Boost Trade Facilitation at WTO Conference

WCO Kenya Boost Trade Facilitation at WTO Conference

During the 10th WTO Ministerial Conference, the WCO and KRA jointly hosted a side event to discuss the implementation experiences and challenges of trade facilitation measures. The meeting highlighted the importance of political will, inter-agency collaboration, public-private partnerships, international cooperation, and standardized regulations, aiming to promote global trade development. The discussions focused on practical solutions and strategies to overcome obstacles in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, emphasizing the need for a collaborative and holistic approach to achieve its objectives.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Boosts Trade with Enhanced Customs Audits

Lesotho Boosts Trade with Enhanced Customs Audits

A high-level virtual workshop on Post-Clearance Audit was successfully conducted for the Lesotho Revenue Authority under the joint framework of HMRC, WCO, and UNCTAD. The workshop aimed to support developing countries in effectively implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. It enhanced the professional skills of Lesotho Revenue Authority officials and fostered cooperation between customs and businesses, contributing to Lesotho's economic development. The training focused on modern PCA techniques and risk management strategies to optimize revenue collection and improve trade compliance.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Georgia Virginia Ports Form East Coast Trade Corridor

Georgia Virginia Ports Form East Coast Trade Corridor

The ports of Georgia and Virginia plan to establish the "East Coast Gateway Terminal Agreement," aiming to create an efficient "super corridor" by enhancing landside infrastructure, sharing best practices, and expanding waterway transportation. This initiative addresses the freight growth brought about by post-Panamax vessels, strengthens the regional ports' competitiveness in global trade, and promotes regional economic development. The cooperation focuses on optimizing cargo flow and handling increased volumes, solidifying the East Coast's position as a vital link in international supply chains.

01/29/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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UPS Teamsters Strike Landmark Labor Deal

UPS Teamsters Strike Landmark Labor Deal

UPS and the Teamsters union reached a five-year agreement, a 'win-win-win' deal focusing on improved compensation and benefits, participation in technological changes, and operational optimization. The agreement aims to enhance employee satisfaction, ensure job security, and restore market confidence. Despite facing market competition and technological transformation challenges, UPS remains optimistic about its future development and strives to gain a competitive edge by maintaining stable labor relations. This agreement is crucial for navigating the evolving logistics landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Three US Rail Unions Reach Tentative Labor Deal

Three US Rail Unions Reach Tentative Labor Deal

Three major US railway unions have reached a tentative labor agreement with freight rail companies, offering hope to avert a potential nationwide railroad strike on September 16th. The agreement includes wage increases and lump-sum payments. However, the final agreement still faces challenges, and all parties need to continue working to ensure the stability of the US economy. This averted strike would have had significant impacts on supply chains and the transportation of goods across the country.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Strike Avoided As Unions Back Labor Deal

US Rail Strike Avoided As Unions Back Labor Deal

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) in the United States has ratified a tentative labor agreement with freight rail companies, averting a potential rail strike. The agreement includes wage increases and improved working conditions. However, it still faces challenges such as approval from other unions, implementation of the agreement, and addressing long-term industry issues. The article advocates for building harmonious labor-management relations and offers insights for Chinese enterprises, emphasizing a people-oriented approach.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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UPS Teamsters Reach Landmark Labor Deal

UPS Teamsters Reach Landmark Labor Deal

UPS expects the new five-year labor agreement with the Teamsters union to be approved within two weeks. Hailed as a 'win-win-win' solution, the agreement aims to improve employee benefits, stabilize operations, ensure customer service, and strengthen the long-term partnership between UPS and the Teamsters. This agreement is expected to pave the way for a new chapter of corporate development, offering benefits for employees, the company, and its customers while ensuring operational stability and growth.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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ABF Freight Teamsters Sign Fiveyear Deal Enhancing Worker Benefits

ABF Freight Teamsters Sign Fiveyear Deal Enhancing Worker Benefits

ABF Freight System and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters reached a five-year National Master Freight Agreement, significantly improving employee wages, benefits, and working conditions. The agreement introduces paid sick leave and Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a holiday. This agreement stabilizes labor relations, injects new vitality into the logistics industry, and provides a reference for protecting labor rights amidst automation trends. It demonstrates a commitment to fair treatment and improved livelihoods for freight workers, fostering a more stable and productive environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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