Flexport Aims to Modernize US Customs for Faster Trade

Flexport Aims to Modernize US Customs for Faster Trade

Flexport's Tom Gould joins the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Commercial Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) to advance customs modernization and address the disconnect between supply chains and customs operations. He will focus on system upgrades, data interoperability, and data science empowerment to improve clearance efficiency, reduce costs for businesses, and simplify global trade. This initiative aims to streamline processes, enhance communication, and leverage technology to create a more efficient and responsive customs environment, ultimately benefiting businesses involved in international commerce.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Jordan Customs Adopts Modern Project Management for Trade Efficiency

Jordan Customs Adopts Modern Project Management for Trade Efficiency

With the support of the WCO, Jordan Customs enhanced its project management capabilities by establishing a project management framework. This initiative aims to improve customs clearance efficiency, strengthen risk management, and enhance information technology to build a modern, 21st-century customs administration and boost international competitiveness. The project emphasizes a results-oriented approach, values communication and collaboration, promotes continuous improvement, and embraces the future.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Bahamas in establishing a commodity classification advance ruling system to enhance trade facilitation. Through national workshops and technical assistance, the WCO assists the Bahamas Customs in its modernization efforts, establishing a pre-ruling system to resolve trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and promote economic development. While challenges exist in establishing the advance ruling system, the WCO's support and cooperation will help the Bahamas achieve its trade facilitation goals. This initiative aims to create a more predictable and efficient trade environment for businesses operating in the Bahamas.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Adopt Digital ATA Carnet to Streamline Trade

Global Customs Adopt Digital ATA Carnet to Streamline Trade

A global training program, co-organized by the World Customs Organization and the International Chamber of Commerce, aims to promote the digital transformation of the ATA Carnet system and enhance customs' responsiveness. The training includes system demonstrations, conceptual explanations, and transition planning, assisting customs administrations in preparing for the digital procedures starting in 2026. The ultimate goal is to achieve full digitalization by the end of 2027. This initiative seeks to streamline international trade processes and improve efficiency through digital solutions.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases Guidelines to Simplify Global Rail Customs Procedures

WCO Releases Guidelines to Simplify Global Rail Customs Procedures

The WCO Railway Guidelines, published by the World Customs Organization (WCO), aim to promote the standardization, simplification, and intelligence of customs procedures for rail transport. This report provides an in-depth interpretation of the guidelines, analyzes their impact and challenges, and proposes optimization strategies, including strengthening international cooperation, promoting technological innovation, and improving laws and regulations. The goal is to enhance the efficiency and safety of global rail transport and facilitate trade development.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Central American Customs Boost Disaster Readiness with WCO Aid

Central American Customs Boost Disaster Readiness with WCO Aid

Members of the Central American Customs Council recently held an online seminar to enhance their capacity to handle relief supplies during natural disasters and other emergencies. The meeting reviewed current regulations, proposed strategic recommendations, and emphasized process digitalization and capacity building. They plan to develop a roadmap at the December meeting to build a more efficient regional disaster response system. The focus is on streamlining customs procedures to ensure rapid delivery of essential aid during crises, fostering greater cooperation and preparedness among member states.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

With support from the EU-WCO and the German Alliance for Trade Facilitation, Côte d'Ivoire is actively developing a national Advance Ruling System. This initiative aims to enhance trade transparency and predictability, reduce trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and improve customs efficiency. The system is expected to revitalize Côte d'Ivoire's trade development and serve as a model for other African nations. It will provide traders with binding rulings on tariff classification, origin, and other customs-related matters before import or export, fostering a more predictable and reliable trading environment.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Smart Customs Tech Boosts Global Trade Efficiency WCOWTO Report

Smart Customs Tech Boosts Global Trade Efficiency WCOWTO Report

The joint WCO/WTO report delves into the application, best practices, and challenges of technologies like blockchain, IoT, and big data in customs. It emphasizes that customs administrations should actively embrace technological change, strengthen international cooperation, increase technology investment, and improve regulatory frameworks. The goal is to enhance trade facilitation and promote global economic development. The report highlights the need for customs to adapt to the evolving technological landscape to effectively manage cross-border trade and ensure security.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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GIZ WCO Boost Gambia Trade with New Customs Tools

GIZ WCO Boost Gambia Trade with New Customs Tools

GIZ Germany, in collaboration with the WCO, is supporting Gambia in enhancing trade facilitation. The project focuses on optimizing risk management, strengthening inter-agency cooperation, and utilizing the WCO Time Release Study tool. The aim is to reduce cargo clearance times, improve trade efficiency, and ultimately promote economic development in Gambia. This initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures and create a more competitive trading environment for the country.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sri Lankan Woman Breaks Barriers in Maledominated Customs Sector

Sri Lankan Woman Breaks Barriers in Maledominated Customs Sector

A Sri Lankan female Deputy Director of Customs shares her story of overcoming challenges and achieving career advancement in a male-dominated field. She encourages women to confidently challenge norms and promotes gender equality within the customs service. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance and breaking down barriers for women in leadership roles, inspiring others to pursue their professional goals and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive workplace within the customs administration and beyond.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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