Delayed Customs Clearance Risks Cargo Backlogs

Delayed Customs Clearance Risks Cargo Backlogs

After foreign trade containers enter the port, although customs doesn't have a mandatory customs clearance deadline, it's recommended to declare as early as possible to avoid demurrage, ensure timely shipment, and address potential inspection risks. Pay special attention to the cut-off time, and ensure release is completed before then. In Yangshan Port, containers usually cannot enter the port without customs clearance, and late declaration may result in additional fees. Early declaration is crucial for smooth and cost-effective export operations.

08/22/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Kazakhstan Adopts WCO Method to Boost Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Adopts WCO Method to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for the Kazakhstan Customs Service to help measure cargo clearance times, identify bottlenecks, and optimize processes. Kazakhstan has established a Single Window platform and plans further digitalization. Despite pandemic challenges, the country intends to implement the TRS to improve trade efficiency. Recommendations include establishing a project team, strengthening training, developing a data quality control system, and enhancing international cooperation. The TRS aims to streamline customs procedures and boost Kazakhstan's trade competitiveness.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Enhances Customs Efficiency with WCO Trade Facilitation Support

Gambia Enhances Customs Efficiency with WCO Trade Facilitation Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in hosting a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop to enhance trade facilitation. Through expert guidance, practical exercises, and action plan development, Gambia aims to establish a trade facilitation baseline, improve its business environment, and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The TRS will precisely identify customs clearance bottlenecks, optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance business competitiveness.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde WCO Launch Trade Efficiency Study

Cape Verde WCO Launch Trade Efficiency Study

With support from the WCO-WACAM project, Cape Verde Customs is preparing its first Time Release Study (TRS) to identify bottlenecks, optimize customs procedures, and enhance trade competitiveness. Through WCO expert workshops and public-private partnership action plans, Cape Verde aims to fulfill the Trade Facilitation Agreement, establishing an efficient and transparent customs system to promote economic development. The TRS will provide valuable data for informed decision-making and targeted reforms, ultimately streamlining the flow of goods and boosting Cape Verde's participation in global trade.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde Enhances Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

Cape Verde Enhances Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WCO-WACAM project, supports Cape Verde in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to optimize customs efficiency, attract foreign investment, and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The forthcoming report is expected to streamline procedures, enhance port infrastructure, and strengthen inter-agency collaboration. This initiative aims to facilitate Cape Verde's integration into the global economy by improving trade competitiveness and reducing trade barriers. The study's findings will provide actionable recommendations for enhancing the overall customs clearance process.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Thailand Eases Customs Clearance for Efficient Shipping

Thailand Eases Customs Clearance for Efficient Shipping

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the Thailand sea freight customs clearance process, covering document preparation, customs inspection, tariff payment, and cargo release. It focuses on factors affecting clearance time, such as cargo type, document completeness, and the intensity of customs inspection. Practical tips for accelerating clearance are offered, including preparing documents in advance and selecting a professional agent, helping businesses optimize logistics and improve efficiency. This guide aims to streamline the import/export process for companies using sea freight to/from Thailand.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Joins SECOWCO Program to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Uzbekistan Joins SECOWCO Program to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Uzbekistan joined the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme to enhance customs efficiency and optimize the business environment. The project supports capacity building and organizational development, strengthens post-clearance audits, and conducts release time studies, promoting economic growth and regional connectivity. This initiative aligns with global trade facilitation trends and is expected to modernize Uzbekistan's customs, optimize regulations, and improve services. It aims to contribute significantly to the country's economic development and regional cooperation.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verdes Trade Facilitation Model Gains Global Praise

Cape Verdes Trade Facilitation Model Gains Global Praise

Cabo Verde, with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), has significantly improved its trade facilitation by effectively implementing the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) measures through effective stakeholder engagement. A Time Release Study (TRS) played a crucial role. The innovative practices of Cabo Verde Customs in stakeholder engagement are worthy of emulation. The country's success highlights the importance of collaboration and strategic implementation for achieving trade efficiency and economic growth.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Peru Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Reform

Peru Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Reform

The SECO-WCO GTFP provided technical assistance to Peruvian Customs for implementing a Time Release Study (TRS). The aim was to enhance Peruvian Customs' capacity through WCO methodology training, procedure review, and software training, identifying bottlenecks and optimizing processes. The successful TRS pilot paved the way for national implementation, potentially improving Peru's trade facilitation and international competitiveness. This initiative highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making in trade facilitation. The study focused on identifying areas where customs procedures could be streamlined to reduce clearance times and improve overall efficiency.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Supports Madagascar Customs to Streamline Trade

WCO Supports Madagascar Customs to Streamline Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Madagascar Customs in implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Immediate Release Guidelines, aiming to optimize trade processes, accelerate cargo release, and promote economic growth. Through workshops, gap analysis, and field visits, the WCO is working with Madagascar Customs to advance digital transformation and improve cross-border trade efficiency. This collaboration focuses on enhancing customs procedures and infrastructure to streamline the movement of goods and boost Madagascar's economic competitiveness.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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