WCO Aids Gambia in Trade Facilitation Via AEO Program

WCO Aids Gambia in Trade Facilitation Via AEO Program

With support from HMRC, the WCO is assisting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in implementing an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program and advancing Coordinated Border Management (CBM). Through online training, field visits, and joint workshops, the initiative aims to enhance the capacity of the GRA and other border agencies. This optimization of customs clearance processes is expected to promote trade facilitation in Gambia, leading to improved efficiency and reduced costs for businesses involved in international trade. The project is crucial for Gambia's economic development by streamlining border procedures.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Antigua and Barbuda Customs Launches Fiveyear Modernization Plan

Antigua and Barbuda Customs Launches Fiveyear Modernization Plan

Antigua and Barbuda Customs is implementing a five-year strategy in response to the World Customs Organization's Mercator Program. This initiative aims to modernize customs operations, promote economic development, and enhance international competitiveness. The strategic plan focuses on streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and aligning with global best practices. By embracing international standards and modern technologies, Antigua and Barbuda Customs seeks to facilitate trade, strengthen border security, and contribute to the nation's sustainable economic growth. This modernization effort is crucial for attracting investment and fostering a more competitive business environment.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Spain Aims to Boost Economy Through Air Transport Reforms

Spain Aims to Boost Economy Through Air Transport Reforms

The Spanish air transport industry significantly contributes to the national economy but faces challenges including airspace efficiency, airport capacity, and charges. This report recommends enhancing Spain's aviation competitiveness through a national airspace strategy, ensuring sufficient airport capacity, developing multimodal transportation, and fostering air cargo development. These measures aim to boost economic growth by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the aviation sector, addressing existing bottlenecks, and promoting seamless integration with other modes of transport. Ultimately, a more competitive aviation industry will lead to greater economic prosperity for Spain.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Usmexico Border Rail Shutdown Disrupts Supply Chains Businesses Demand Action

Usmexico Border Rail Shutdown Disrupts Supply Chains Businesses Demand Action

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection's closure of rail crossings along the U.S.-Mexico border has triggered a supply chain crisis. Industry associations are urging a swift reopening, highlighting its crucial role in North American trade. The disruption threatens to cause agricultural product spoilage, damage to the automotive industry, increased consumer prices, and overall economic downturn risks. Recommendations include strengthening cooperation, increasing patrols, and diversifying transportation methods to ensure supply chain stability. The impact of the closure is far-reaching and requires immediate attention to mitigate further economic consequences.

01/20/2026 Logistics
Read More
October Shipping Volumes and Costs Decline Cass Index Shows

October Shipping Volumes and Costs Decline Cass Index Shows

The Cass Freight Index reveals a year-over-year and month-over-month decline in North American freight volumes and expenditures for October, reflecting macroeconomic slowdown and inventory overhang. Despite short-term pressures, economic recovery and structural adjustments are expected to create new growth opportunities. Companies need to pay close attention to market dynamics and respond flexibly. The downturn highlights the need for efficient supply chain management and strategic adaptation to navigate the evolving economic landscape. Proactive measures will be crucial for businesses to weather the current challenges and capitalize on future upturns.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Freight Market Faces Challenges As Analyst Forecasts Trends

Freight Market Faces Challenges As Analyst Forecasts Trends

Bloomberg analyst Klaskow provides an in-depth analysis of the US freight market, suggesting a high risk of economic recession but believing the market has bottomed out. Capacity exiting and inventory digestion are key to market rebalancing, with seasonal demand and supply chain recovery expected to bring a more stable environment. Freight companies with strong capital and diversified business models are better positioned to navigate market volatility. The analysis highlights the resilience needed to weather potential economic downturns and capitalize on future growth opportunities in the freight sector.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
West Coast Port Strike Intensifies Chamber Seeks White House Action

West Coast Port Strike Intensifies Chamber Seeks White House Action

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is urging the White House to intervene in the West Coast port labor dispute. Stalled contract negotiations between the ILWU and PMA have led to slowdowns, threatening economic stability. The article analyzes the positions of both labor and management, highlighting the potentially devastating economic consequences of port closures. It emphasizes the urgent need for all parties to reach an agreement quickly to safeguard the vitality of the U.S. economy and the competitiveness of West Coast ports. A swift resolution is crucial to avoid further disruption to the supply chain.

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
Afcfta Study Finds Origin Rule Gaps in Textiles Auto Sectors

Afcfta Study Finds Origin Rule Gaps in Textiles Auto Sectors

The EU-World Customs Organization Rules of Origin Africa Programme released a report comparing rules of origin for the textile and automotive industries. The report reveals the impact of different rules on trade, industrial layout, and value chains. It provides a reference for policymakers and businesses, contributing to African regional economic development. The analysis highlights key differences and their consequences for sourcing strategies, production location, and overall competitiveness within the African context. This research aims to inform better policy decisions and promote sustainable economic growth in the region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Sierra Leone Enhances Tax Collection with HR Modernization

Sierra Leone Enhances Tax Collection with HR Modernization

The National Revenue Authority (NRA) of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), has launched a modernization project of its human resources system. This initiative aims to build a competency-based HRM system to improve recruitment, performance management, training, compensation, and employee relations. The goal is to inject talent and drive into the nation's economic development by strengthening the NRA's human capital. This comprehensive reform seeks to ensure a skilled and motivated workforce capable of effectively managing the country's revenue collection and contributing to sustainable economic growth.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Samoa Enhances Trade with Modernized Customs System

Samoa Enhances Trade with Modernized Customs System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Samoa in improving cross-border trade efficiency. Through workshops coordinating border management, the WCO promotes inter-agency cooperation, shares best practices, and provides tool support. This initiative aims to help Samoa create an efficient and convenient cross-border trade environment, ultimately fostering economic prosperity. The workshops focus on streamlining procedures and enhancing collaboration among various government agencies involved in trade, leading to reduced delays and improved trade flows. Samoa's commitment to these reforms is expected to significantly boost its economic competitiveness.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More