US Service Sector Growth Cools Amid Mixed Economic Signals

US Service Sector Growth Cools Amid Mixed Economic Signals

The ISM report indicates that the US services sector expanded for the fifth consecutive month in November, albeit at a slower pace. The report reveals varying performance across different industries and provides an in-depth analysis of sub-indexes, reflecting weakening demand, cautious hiring, and inventory control. Expert opinions emphasize the importance of macroeconomic influences and risk management. Businesses should closely monitor market changes, strengthen risk management, embrace innovation, and enhance customer experience to seize opportunities and meet challenges in the services sector.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Backs Palestinian Customs Modernization Efforts

WCO Backs Palestinian Customs Modernization Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Palestine Customs in modernizing its Human Resource Management (HRM) through a workshop held in Tunis. This support focuses on building a competency-based HRM system, including developing a job directory, competency framework, competency dictionary, and job descriptions. WCO experts will provide remote support to ensure the successful implementation of these reforms. The initiative aims to improve the efficiency and international competitiveness of Palestine Customs by strengthening its workforce and aligning HR practices with international standards.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zimbabwe Tax Authority Gains from WCO Leadership Program

Zimbabwe Tax Authority Gains from WCO Leadership Program

The WCO held a workshop in Zimbabwe to enhance the management capabilities of ZIMRA, promoting customs modernization and trade development. The workshop aimed to improve tax efficiency and international competitiveness. Key areas covered included leadership development strategies tailored for customs and tax administration. Participants explored best practices in streamlining customs procedures, leveraging technology for tax collection, and fostering a culture of compliance. The ultimate goal is to bolster Zimbabwe's economic growth through efficient and effective revenue collection and enhanced trade facilitation.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Ethiopias Customs Modernization with Talent Assessment

WCO Backs Ethiopias Customs Modernization with Talent Assessment

WCO assists Ethiopian Customs in improving human resource management, promoting modernization. Experts recommend optimizing recruitment, training, and performance evaluation, providing a reference for developing countries. The focus is on building a skilled and motivated workforce to support customs reforms and enhance operational efficiency. This initiative aims to strengthen Ethiopia's capacity to effectively manage its borders and facilitate trade, ultimately contributing to economic growth and regional integration. The recommendations offer practical guidance for other developing countries seeking to modernize their customs administrations.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Expands AEO Program to Boost Trade Efficiency

Colombia Expands AEO Program to Boost Trade Efficiency

Colombia is expanding its AEO program, aiming to increase the number of certified companies through a customs-led new version, enhancing trade facilitation and supply chain security. Companies should understand the certification standards, strengthen internal management, and actively cooperate with customs to seize opportunities to improve international competitiveness. AEO is not only about customs clearance facilitation but also a symbol of corporate credibility. Businesses should consider the benefits and prepare accordingly to leverage the advantages of the AEO program in the Colombian context.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Nations Strengthen Customs Cooperation Against Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

Asiapacific Nations Strengthen Customs Cooperation Against Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Asia-Pacific customs administrations in upgrading their plastic waste management. Through virtual diagnostics, tailored implementation plans were developed for Indonesia and the Philippines. A regional workshop is planned to strengthen cooperation in addressing the challenge of 'foreign waste' and protecting the blue skies of the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aims to enhance customs enforcement capabilities and ensure compliance with the Basel Convention, ultimately combating the illegal trade and improper disposal of plastic waste.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Postclearance Audits in Uzbekistan

WCO Enhances Postclearance Audits in Uzbekistan

Under the WCO's global trade facilitation project, the World Customs Organization (WCO) provided Post Clearance Audit (PCA) technical assistance to the State Customs Committee (SCC) of Uzbekistan. Through remote guidance, simulations, and process optimization recommendations, the assistance aimed to enhance Uzbekistan's PCA capabilities, strengthen trade compliance management, and promote economic development. This support deepened Uzbekistan's understanding of the PCA process, identified areas for improvement, and laid the groundwork for developing customs procedures. The project is expected to significantly improve trade efficiency and security.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Pioneers Customs Modernization in West Africa

Gambia Revenue Authority Pioneers Customs Modernization in West Africa

Supported by the Swedish-funded WACAM project, The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) is pioneering the WCO-promoted competency-based HRM model in West and Central Africa. By reviewing key HRM tools and strengthening institutional capacity, GRA aims to become a regional benchmark, leading industry development and providing valuable experience and lessons for other customs agencies. This initiative represents a significant step towards modernized customs administration and enhanced talent management within the region, potentially setting a new standard for customs operations.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Introduces Wellness Training for Customs Agencies

WCO Introduces Wellness Training for Customs Agencies

The WCO has launched a Customs Executive Wellbeing Training program, covering stress management and resilience building, to help create a healthy and efficient workforce capable of responding to new challenges. This initiative focuses on equipping customs leaders with the tools and knowledge to support their own wellbeing and that of their teams. By prioritizing employee welfare, the WCO aims to foster a more engaged and productive environment, ultimately strengthening customs operations and their ability to adapt to evolving global demands.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Madagascar Customs Adopts Competencybased HR System

Madagascar Customs Adopts Competencybased HR System

With support from the WCO and UK HMRC, Madagascar Customs is implementing a competency-based modern Human Resource Management system upgrade project. Through expert guidance, tool development, and capacity building, the project aims to build a transparent and efficient HRM system to address challenges and seize opportunities, ultimately improving customs service levels. Progress includes refining the job directory, competency framework, and job descriptions, as well as developing a detailed implementation roadmap. The project is a key step towards modernizing Madagascar Customs' HR practices.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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