Sierra Leone Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

Sierra Leone Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

The WCO supported Sierra Leone in enhancing its customs efficiency by hosting a Time Release Study workshop. This initiative aimed to optimize clearance procedures and promote trade facilitation. The workshop focused on identifying bottlenecks and implementing strategies to improve the speed and predictability of customs processes. The project was funded by the UK's HMRC, demonstrating international collaboration in supporting Sierra Leone's efforts to streamline trade and boost economic growth through more efficient customs operations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Fiji Enhances Trade with Streamlined Customs Process

Fiji Enhances Trade with Streamlined Customs Process

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a workshop in Fiji to support Fiji Customs in implementing the Time Release Study (TRS), aligning with the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Through training and collaboration, Fiji aims to optimize cargo clearance processes, promote trade facilitation, and improve the business environment. The TRS will help identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in the customs clearance process, ultimately leading to faster and more efficient trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaragua Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs Reforms

Nicaragua Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs Reforms

Nicaragua, with the support of the World Customs Organization, hosted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop. The aim was to identify and address trade bottlenecks through the TRS methodology, thereby improving customs clearance efficiency. This event is part of the WCO-Norwegian Development Cooperation Agency's Customs Capacity Building Project and complements Nicaragua's Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) pilot program. Both initiatives are dedicated to enhancing supply chain security and efficiency, ultimately promoting trade facilitation.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Exporters Urged to Master Shipping Cutoff Times

Global Exporters Urged to Master Shipping Cutoff Times

This article provides an in-depth analysis of three key deadlines in international shipping: cut-off time for Shipping Instructions (SI), customs clearance cut-off, and container yard (CY) cut-off. The SI cut-off is the deadline for submitting cargo manifest information. The customs cut-off is the deadline for completing customs clearance and release. The CY cut-off is the final time for containers to enter the terminal yard. The article details the significance, precautions, and strategies for each stage, aiming to help shippers and freight forwarders understand the shipping process, avoid delays, and prevent additional costs.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Bahamas Adopts WCO Study to Modernize Customs Efficiency

Bahamas Adopts WCO Study to Modernize Customs Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Bahamas Customs in conducting its first Time Release Study (TRS) to identify clearance bottlenecks, optimize processes, and improve efficiency. With WCO training and technical support, the Bahamas aims to significantly reduce clearance times, lower trade costs, and meet the requirements of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative is expected to promote economic growth and enhance the country's international image by streamlining customs procedures and fostering a more efficient trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Customs Inspections Guide for Ocean Freight Shippers

US Customs Inspections Guide for Ocean Freight Shippers

This article provides a detailed analysis of the US customs inspection process for ocean freight, covering document review, border inspection, re-examination, and release notification. It delves into key factors influencing inspection time, such as cargo type, value, quantity, and historical records. Practical advice is offered to shorten inspection times, assisting importers and exporters in achieving efficient customs clearance. The article aims to help businesses navigate the complexities of US customs and minimize delays in their supply chains.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Exporters Urged to Heed Logistics Cutoff Times

Exporters Urged to Heed Logistics Cutoff Times

Cut-off time and closing time are crucial deadlines in international logistics that significantly impact shipping efficiency. Cut-off time refers to the deadline for submitting shipping instructions, affecting customs clearance and cargo release. Closing time is the latest time cargo can be delivered to the port for loading, determining whether it can be loaded on the scheduled vessel. To avoid risks associated with missing these deadlines, foreign trade companies should plan ahead, enhance communication, allow buffer time, familiarize themselves with procedures, and select reliable partners.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Tajikistan Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

Tajikistan Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for Tajikistan Customs to assist the country in launching a new TRS cycle and improving cross-border trade efficiency. By reviewing the TRS methodology, demonstrating the TRS software, and sharing experiences, the workshop laid the foundation for Tajikistan Customs to optimize clearance procedures, identify bottlenecks, and reduce trade costs. This initiative supports the country's economic development and enhances its international competitiveness. The workshop aimed to improve customs efficiency through practical application of the TRS methodology.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Philippine Customs Boosts Trade Reforms with WCO Backing

Philippine Customs Boosts Trade Reforms with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a leadership workshop for senior officials of the Philippine Customs, aiming to enhance strategic alignment, trust-building, and leadership skills. The workshop focused on challenges such as cross-departmental collaboration, decision-making processes, and strategic thinking. Initiatives like Time Release Study (TRS) were highlighted as tools for customs modernization and promoting trade facilitation reforms. The program sought to equip participants with the necessary tools and knowledge to drive positive change within the Philippine Customs administration and contribute to improved efficiency and effectiveness.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Philippines Streamlines Cargo Clearance to Boost Trade Efficiency

Philippines Streamlines Cargo Clearance to Boost Trade Efficiency

The Philippines will launch a National Time Release Study (TRS) in 2025 to enhance the efficiency of customs clearance for maritime imports and exports. Spanning two weeks, the study will focus on the Manila International Container Port and has received support from the World Customs Organization and HM Revenue and Customs of the UK. The final report is expected to be completed by the end of the year, providing a basis for subsequent reforms aimed at promoting trade facilitation and enhancing national competitiveness.

07/28/2025 Logistics
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