WCO COVID19 Project Boosts Global Emergency Preparedness

WCO COVID19 Project Boosts Global Emergency Preparedness

The World Customs Organization's COVID-19 Project concluded in May 2023, aiming to enhance member customs' capacity to respond to pandemics and other emergencies. Through capacity building, tool development, and experience sharing, the project significantly improved member customs' emergency preparedness and response capabilities, setting a benchmark for global customs cooperation. The WCO will continue to provide guidance and technical assistance, strengthening international cooperation to address global challenges collectively.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guangzhous Crossborder Ecommerce Sector Hit by Layoffs Amid Downturn

Guangzhous Crossborder Ecommerce Sector Hit by Layoffs Amid Downturn

Guangzhou's severe COVID-19 situation has created operational difficulties for cross-border e-commerce companies. A major seller's 'indefinite holiday' announcement has drawn industry attention. This article analyzes the essence of this 'indefinite holiday,' revealing the survival struggles of cross-border e-commerce businesses and the anxieties of practitioners amidst the industry's winter. It also offers suggestions for both companies and individuals to navigate these challenges, including cost reduction, diversification, and skills enhancement for employees.

12/31/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Import Volumes Drop Sharply Amid COVID19 and Low Demand

US Import Volumes Drop Sharply Amid COVID19 and Low Demand

Panjiva data reveals a sixth consecutive month of decline in US seaborne imports in February, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and weakened demand. Imports from China experienced a sharp decrease, and future prospects remain uncertain. The ongoing pandemic continues to disrupt global supply chains and consumer spending, contributing to the overall downturn in trade activity. This trend raises concerns about the potential long-term economic consequences for both the US and its trading partners.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Pandemic Risks Longterm Damage to Global Economic Growth

Pandemic Risks Longterm Damage to Global Economic Growth

An IHS Markit report indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic not only caused an economic recession but also poses a threat to long-term growth. The labor market, capital stock, and total factor productivity have all been negatively affected. Real GDP in developed economies is projected to be lower than pre-pandemic expectations by 2030. Accelerated digitalization may partially offset these adverse effects, but the overall long-term economic consequences remain significant and concerning.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Customs Intensifies Crackdown on Fake COVID Supplies in Southeast Asia

Global Customs Intensifies Crackdown on Fake COVID Supplies in Southeast Asia

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is strengthening cooperation with ASEAN to combat cross-border smuggling of counterfeit and substandard COVID-19 supplies. This collaboration aims to enhance customs control capabilities, strengthen intelligence sharing, and leverage technology to build a new framework for global customs cooperation. The initiative seeks to safeguard global health security by preventing the proliferation of illicit medical products and ensuring the integrity of supply chains. This partnership underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing transnational threats and protecting public health.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Secretariat in Postpandemic Trade Revival

WCO Backs Secretariat in Postpandemic Trade Revival

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Council supported the Secretariat, focusing on key areas like capacity building and trade facilitation. By adopting resolutions such as the HS 2022 Amendments, the WCO COVID-19 Action Plan, and the SAFE Framework 2021, the WCO aims to simplify customs procedures, strengthen international cooperation, and improve customs management. These efforts are designed to contribute to global economic recovery and safeguard trade development in the post-pandemic era by empowering customs administrations around the world.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pandemic Disrupts Used Aircraft Parts Market Recovery Underway

Pandemic Disrupts Used Aircraft Parts Market Recovery Underway

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the used aircraft materials (USM) market, causing a sharp decline in transaction volume. However, the pandemic has also accelerated aircraft retirements, increasing the USM supply and prompting airlines to prioritize cost control and embrace USM. Tools like MRO SmartHub will enhance USM transaction efficiency and contribute to the aviation industry's recovery. Digital transformation, supply chain optimization, and quality control will be crucial development trends in the USM market in the future.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Packaging Industry Boosts Automation Amid Pandemic Ecommerce Demand

Packaging Industry Boosts Automation Amid Pandemic Ecommerce Demand

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the automation transformation in the packaging industry, with companies facing labor shortages and surging e-commerce demands. Secondary packaging is becoming a key area for automation, and technologies such as collaborative robots and remote maintenance are increasingly prevalent. Human-machine collaboration will be a major trend in the future of the packaging industry. This shift aims to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance resilience in the face of evolving market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Comoros Customs Boosts Disaster Resilience with WCO Aid

Comoros Customs Boosts Disaster Resilience with WCO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its COVID-19 Project, supported Comoros Customs in enhancing its disaster management capabilities. This included risk assessment, expedited clearance procedures, facilitation of vaccine transportation, and ensuring supply chain continuity. Workshops fostered international cooperation and provided technical and financial assistance to Comoros Customs. The initiative aims to build a more resilient nation by strengthening its customs' ability to respond effectively to future crises and disruptions, thereby safeguarding trade and protecting the Comorian population.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Services Sector Remains Strong in February Amid Pandemic

US Services Sector Remains Strong in February Amid Pandemic

U.S. non-manufacturing activity unexpectedly accelerated in February, showing resilience despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Most industries continued to expand, with strong gains in new orders and employment. Analysts note that the pandemic introduces uncertainty, but consumer confidence and Federal Reserve interest rate cuts are expected to support future growth. The positive data suggests underlying strength in the service sector, a key driver of overall economic expansion, even as challenges persist from the ongoing health crisis.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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