Azerbaijan Expands Trade Program with WCO Backing

Azerbaijan Expands Trade Program with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides technical assistance to Azerbaijan Customs to enhance its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. Through workshops, WCO experts and Azerbaijani Customs representatives discussed the effectiveness of the AEO program, expansion opportunities, and alignment with the SAFE Framework. The goal is to promote trade facilitation, improve supply chain security, and contribute to Azerbaijan's economic growth. The assistance aims to elevate the operational standards of Azerbaijan Customs.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Angolas Customs Reforms Boost Trade Efficiency

Angolas Customs Reforms Boost Trade Efficiency

Angola implements Binding Tariff Information (BTI) to enhance trade facilitation, predictability, and customs efficiency, attracting foreign investment and promoting economic development. This advance ruling system provides traders with certainty regarding the classification of goods before importation, streamlining customs procedures and reducing delays. By offering clarity and transparency, the BTI system fosters a more conducive environment for international trade and investment in Angola, ultimately contributing to the country's economic growth and diversification.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Bangladesh Joins Revised Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Bangladesh Joins Revised Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Bangladesh's accession to the Revised Kyoto Convention marks a significant step towards trade facilitation. This convention aims to simplify customs procedures, improve clearance efficiency, enhance trade environment transparency, promote information technology application, strengthen risk management, and foster closer trade partnerships. This will inject new impetus into Bangladesh's economic development by streamlining trade processes and creating a more predictable and efficient trading environment, ultimately contributing to economic growth and competitiveness.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Implements Customs Preruling System to Ease Trade

Lesotho Implements Customs Preruling System to Ease Trade

The WCO is assisting Lesotho in establishing a customs advance ruling system to reduce trade costs and improve customs clearance efficiency. Discussions between the two parties covered legal amendments, software upgrades, and the development of an action plan to promote economic development. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes, provide greater certainty for traders, and ultimately contribute to Lesotho's economic growth by fostering a more predictable and efficient trading environment.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Manufacturing Growth Slows Amid Declining PMI

US Manufacturing Growth Slows Amid Declining PMI

The US manufacturing PMI declined for the third consecutive month in September. While still above the expansion threshold, key indicators like new orders, production, and employment all showed a downward trend, indicating weakening growth momentum. Experts attribute this to economic uncertainty but maintain that fundamentals remain solid, adopting a cautiously optimistic outlook. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics and proactively address the risks associated with the economic downturn.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase in July, while intermodal volume decreased. Total freight traffic for the first 28 weeks is down year-over-year. Infrastructure projects are supporting carload volume, but cooling consumer demand is impacting intermodal traffic. The divergence suggests a shift in freight patterns, potentially reflecting changes in economic activity and supply chain dynamics. Overall rail freight performance provides mixed signals regarding the current economic climate.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Trade with NAFTA Partners Hits Record High in March 2012

US Trade with NAFTA Partners Hits Record High in March 2012

In March 2012, land trade between the United States and its NAFTA partners reached a record high of $85.8 billion. This paper analyzes this data, exploring the drivers of trade growth, such as economic recovery, manufacturing reshoring, and energy industry development. It also elaborates on the positive impacts on economic growth, resource allocation, and regional cooperation. Furthermore, the paper identifies future challenges and potential development directions for North American land trade.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Demand Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Demand Uncertainty

U.S. rail freight volume and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year. Grain shipments increased, but other commodities decreased. The primary drivers behind this downturn are economic slowdown, persistent supply chain issues, and the ongoing energy transition. These factors are collectively impacting the demand for rail transportation across various sectors. The decline highlights the sensitivity of rail freight to broader economic trends and ongoing shifts in the energy landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Manufacturing Boom Offsets Consumer Spending Worries

US Manufacturing Boom Offsets Consumer Spending Worries

Amidst sluggish consumption, manufacturing is emerging as a key driver of economic recovery. Factors such as global supply chain restructuring, technological innovation and industrial upgrading, and supportive government policies are fueling this resurgence. However, the manufacturing sector faces challenges, requiring increased investment in technological innovation, talent development, diversification of markets, and strengthened supply chain management. While manufacturing is vital, a full economic recovery ultimately hinges on a rebound in consumer spending.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Commercial Trailer Orders Drop Sharply Amid Demand Uncertainty

US Commercial Trailer Orders Drop Sharply Amid Demand Uncertainty

US commercial trailer orders declined for the third consecutive month, but backlogs remain high. Analysts suggest the decline may be due to seasonal adjustments and front-loaded demand, influenced by economic uncertainty and a weak freight market. Long-term, economic growth, infrastructure investment, and technological innovation will support market development. Companies should strengthen market monitoring, optimize product structures, improve service quality, and actively expand markets to seize long-term growth opportunities.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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