Vietnam Warns of Risks in Marrying for Business Gains

Vietnam Warns of Risks in Marrying for Business Gains

This article analyzes the phenomenon of using marriage to circumvent foreign trade costs and nominee risks in Vietnam, highlighting the hidden dangers of this seemingly convenient "marriage business." These risks include asset misappropriation, family disputes, and legal loopholes. The article emphasizes that cross-border marriage is not a panacea and requires a rational assessment of legal, economic, and emotional risks. It cautions against viewing marriage as a shortcut for investment purposes, stressing the importance of due diligence and professional advice before entering into such arrangements.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Mexico Gains Supply Chain Clout Amid North American Trade Shifts

Mexico Gains Supply Chain Clout Amid North American Trade Shifts

Mexico's exports to the US have reached record highs due to US tariffs on China, positioning it as a central hub in North American supply chain restructuring. The USMCA agreement guarantees zero-tariff advantages, fostering industrial upgrading. Mexico is evolving from a 'trade haven' to a core node in the industrial chain with R&D, manufacturing, and integration capabilities. This transformation has profound implications for the global trade landscape, demonstrating Mexico's increasing importance in international commerce and its ability to capitalize on shifting global economic dynamics.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO and WCO Partner to Enhance Global Trade Living Standards

WTO and WCO Partner to Enhance Global Trade Living Standards

The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) emphasized the crucial role of collaboration between trade and customs communities in improving global well-being at the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council meeting. By strengthening information sharing, capacity building, and technological innovation, the WTO and WCO can jointly build a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable global trading system. This cooperation is essential for facilitating trade, ensuring security, and promoting economic development worldwide. The focus is on streamlining processes and fostering a collaborative environment for mutual benefit.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Digital Transformation Boosts Supply Chain Resilience

Digital Transformation Boosts Supply Chain Resilience

This paper explores how integrating digital manufacturing into the supply chain can enhance a company's ability to respond to economic and political uncertainties. It focuses on analyzing the implementation strategies and benefits of digital manufacturing, as well as the key elements in the digital transformation process. The aim is to help companies build a more resilient supply chain system. It discusses practical approaches to leverage digital technologies for increased agility and responsiveness, ultimately enabling businesses to navigate complex and volatile market conditions more effectively.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Infrastructure Bill Delayed Amid Political Stalemate

US Infrastructure Bill Delayed Amid Political Stalemate

The US surface transportation authorization bill faces another extension. Experts argue that short-term extensions fail to address the core issues. The new administration needs to promptly resolve the Highway Trust Fund's funding shortfall and break the bipartisan gridlock on transportation infrastructure construction. A long-term solution is crucial for sustained economic growth and improved mobility. Failure to act decisively will further exacerbate existing infrastructure problems and hinder future development. The political will to overcome partisan divides is essential to secure a robust and reliable transportation network.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Zambia Tax Authority Adopts WCO Tool to Boost Efficiency

Zambia Tax Authority Adopts WCO Tool to Boost Efficiency

With support from the Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation Project, WCO experts assisted the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in leveraging the Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM) to enhance strategic decision-making and governance. By establishing a data-driven performance evaluation system, ZRA aims to optimize operational efficiency and achieve customs modernization, ultimately contributing more significantly to Zambia's economic development. The PMM helps ZRA to monitor progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that resources are allocated effectively, leading to better trade facilitation and increased revenue collection.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Saudi Arabia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked AEO Program

Saudi Arabia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked AEO Program

A World Customs Organization (WCO) expert team recently visited Saudi Arabia to provide AEO system capacity building training to the Saudi ZATCA. The training focused on key elements such as the SAFE Framework of Standards, risk management, and Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs). This initiative aims to assist Saudi Customs in optimizing AEO implementation, enhancing trade facilitation, and promoting economic diversification. By strengthening its AEO program, Saudi Arabia can improve efficiency, security, and predictability in its customs procedures, ultimately contributing to a more competitive and attractive business environment.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EU Demands UPS Concessions in 67B TNT Deal Over Antitrust Concerns

EU Demands UPS Concessions in 67B TNT Deal Over Antitrust Concerns

UPS's $6.7 billion acquisition of TNT faced scrutiny from the European Union's antitrust regulators, potentially requiring significant concessions to alleviate competition concerns. The European Commission worried the deal would create a market monopoly, and UPS actively sought remedies. Historical precedents show similar mergers face considerable challenges, but UPS is determined to overcome these hurdles, achieve synergies, and reshape the express delivery market in Europe and globally. The EU's concerns centered on potential price increases and reduced service quality for customers in the European Economic Area.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Demand Slumps Amid High Costs in Q3

US Freight Demand Slumps Amid High Costs in Q3

The Bank of America Freight Payment Index Q3 report reveals that the US freight market is facing multiple challenges, including shifts in consumer spending patterns and inflation. Freight volumes have declined, but spending growth has slowed. The report provides an in-depth analysis of regional market performance and offers insights into future trends, serving as a valuable resource for freight companies and investors. It highlights the evolving dynamics of the freight sector amidst broader economic uncertainties and offers a perspective on adapting to changing market conditions.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Warns Sanctions on Russia Trade Partners Targets China India

US Warns Sanctions on Russia Trade Partners Targets China India

The US Congress is pushing a sanctions bill that proposes tariffs of up to 500% on goods imported into the US from countries purchasing Russian energy. This aims to cut off Russia's war funding but could significantly impact countries like China and India. The bill's future is uncertain and has already triggered global trade tensions, forcing nations to balance energy security, diplomatic autonomy, and international trade. The potential ramifications are widespread, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and its global economic repercussions.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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