Burundi Adopts Competencybased HRM System for Revenue Authority

Burundi Adopts Competencybased HRM System for Revenue Authority

With support from the World Customs Organization, the Burundi Revenue Authority is undergoing modernization through the development of a competency-based HRM system. This aims to improve operational efficiency, increase tax revenue, and enhance stakeholder relations. The workshop focused on empowering the HR department to build a competency model and develop an action plan. The WCO will continue to provide support to help the Burundi Revenue Authority achieve its modernization goals. This initiative highlights the importance of HR in driving organizational change and improving public service delivery.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Zambia in Trade Facilitation Program Upgrade

WCO Backs Zambia in Trade Facilitation Program Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in establishing an internationally compliant Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to enhance trade facilitation. Through expert team support, remote guidance, and on-site validation, the WCO assists ZRA in optimizing its AEO program. The WCO also looks forward to future collaboration to further strengthen the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and promote regional economic development. This initiative aims to align ZRA's practices with global standards and boost its efficiency in facilitating international trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Amazon Singapore Sellers Expand to Malaysian Market

Amazon Singapore Sellers Expand to Malaysian Market

Amazon Singapore launched the "Export to Malaysia" program, offering sellers access to more Southeast Asian consumers without extra fees or setup. FBA sellers can seamlessly integrate, while self-fulfilled sellers need to apply manually. The program simplifies customs processes, drawing on the success of the Australian and Middle Eastern sites. It highlights the significant potential of the Malaysian e-commerce market and the broader prospects of the Southeast Asian market. This initiative aims to streamline cross-border selling and tap into the growing demand in the region.

01/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Forwarders Prepayment Demands Strain Crossborder Ecommerce

Freight Forwarders Prepayment Demands Strain Crossborder Ecommerce

The emergence of the 'prepayment' model in DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) freight forwarding is driven by stricter customs supervision, intensified industry competition, fluctuating logistics costs, and diversified seller demands. This model exacerbates sellers' cash flow pressure, accelerates industry consolidation, but also promotes compliance and the demand for innovative services. Sellers should optimize cash flow management, choose suitable freight forwarders, enhance compliance awareness, and explore diversified logistics solutions to address the challenges. This shift necessitates a strategic approach to navigate the evolving landscape of cross-border logistics.

12/30/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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EU Tightens VAT Rules for Express Shipments

EU Tightens VAT Rules for Express Shipments

This article provides an in-depth analysis of VAT requirements for express deliveries to EU countries, detailing the VAT number needs in various scenarios (business/individual recipient, high/low value goods, B2B/B2C trade). It also explains key concepts such as IOSS and EORI numbers. Furthermore, the article offers practical compliance advice to help cross-border e-commerce sellers and international trade participants clear customs smoothly and reduce logistical risks. This guide aims to navigate the complexities of EU VAT regulations for international shipments.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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PLACI Expands Air Cargo Security with 71 Data Elements

PLACI Expands Air Cargo Security with 71 Data Elements

PLACI (Advance Cargo Information) is an aviation security enhancement initiative recommended by the World Customs Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization. It involves collecting 7+1 elements of cargo information in advance for regulatory risk assessment. PLACI is not a standalone security measure but a crucial component of a multi-layered security system. Its purpose is to provide early risk warnings, enable precise targeting, and optimize resource allocation, ultimately enhancing aviation security. It aims to proactively identify threats and improve the efficiency of security measures.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Air Freight Doortodoor Vs Airporttoairport Cost and Time Comparison

Air Freight Doortodoor Vs Airporttoairport Cost and Time Comparison

The transit time difference between international air freight 'door-to-door' and 'airport-to-airport' services isn't fixed, depending on factors like destination, cargo characteristics, and customs clearance efficiency. The difference is minimal for general cargo to hub cities but increases for remote locations or specialized goods. 'Door-to-door' offers more stable transit times by integrating the entire logistics chain. Conversely, those familiar with destination port operations can opt for 'airport-to-airport' to control the process independently, potentially saving time and cost if managed effectively.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Lesotho Revenue Authority Advances Tax Modernization with Talent Initiative

Lesotho Revenue Authority Advances Tax Modernization with Talent Initiative

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) is actively implementing a competency-based human resource management system to enhance operational efficiency and tax collection capabilities. Supported by the World Customs Organization through the EPCB-HRMP project, the initiative aims to assist LRA in building a strategic HR management system. This system focuses on aligning talent with roles, ultimately contributing to LRA's modernization goals. This endeavor offers valuable lessons and best practices for other African tax administrations seeking to modernize their HR practices and improve overall performance.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Europe Streamlines Air Freight to Cut Costs and Delays

Europe Streamlines Air Freight to Cut Costs and Delays

This article provides an in-depth analysis of key aspects of European air freight imports, including efficient customs clearance processes, time-cost trade-offs, air route selection, suitable cargo types, and stringent packaging requirements. It aims to help importers gain a comprehensive understanding of European air freight, optimize their logistics solutions, and ensure the safe and efficient delivery of goods to their destination. The paper focuses on practical considerations for businesses engaging in air freight from Europe, highlighting best practices for a streamlined import experience.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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WCO and WTO Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

WCO and WTO Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the World Trade Organization (WTO), held an advanced training course in Geneva for chairpersons of National Trade Facilitation Committees from French-speaking countries. The course aimed to enhance their understanding of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and improve their communication and collaboration skills with stakeholders. The curriculum was based on WCO's capacity building materials and introduced key tools such as the Mercator Program. Both organizations will continue their collaboration to organize similar courses for Spanish-speaking countries.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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