West Africa Enhances Customs Skills with Origin Rules Training

West Africa Enhances Customs Skills with Origin Rules Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly advancing the Rules of Origin 'Pool of Trainers' project in West Africa. A workshop held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, aimed to enhance the capacity of West African customs administrations in implementing rules of origin. The initiative focuses on developing experienced trainers and establishing a sustainable training system to facilitate trade and economic development within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sudan Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

Sudan Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

With the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Sudanese Customs has launched a human resource management modernization transformation, adopting a competency-based model. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of talent selection, training, and performance evaluation, building a more competitive human resource system to contribute more significantly to Sudan's economic development. Through international cooperation, Sudanese Customs is learning from best practices and striving to achieve leapfrog development in its human resource capabilities.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaragua Enhances Trade Via WCO Efficiency Study

Nicaragua Enhances Trade Via WCO Efficiency Study

The WCO held a workshop in Nicaragua to help optimize clearance processes and improve trade efficiency. The workshop was supported by the WCO-Norad project. The aim was to enhance trade facilitation by streamlining customs procedures and reducing delays. Key areas covered included risk management, automation, and cooperation between agencies. The workshop provided practical guidance and fostered collaboration among stakeholders to achieve faster and more efficient clearance times, ultimately contributing to economic growth and competitiveness.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Islands Boost Tax Revenue with Regional Training

Pacific Islands Boost Tax Revenue with Regional Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), launched the 'Master Training Program (MTP)' to enhance the revenue management capacity of Customs administrations in Pacific Island Countries. The program focuses on developing tax experts and improving the accuracy of customs valuation and HS code classification, thereby promoting trade facilitation and sustainable economic development. Pacific Island Customs administrations have identified revenue-related issues as a primary focus of the MTP.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Kyrgyzstans Customs for Trade Efficiency

WCO Enhances Kyrgyzstans Customs for Trade Efficiency

The WCO, in collaboration with the OSCE, is assisting the Kyrgyz Republic Customs in launching a new round of Time Release Study (TRS). This initiative aims to optimize customs clearance procedures, reduce trade costs, and promote economic development within the country. By analyzing the time taken for goods to be released, the study will identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in the customs process, ultimately leading to enhanced trade facilitation and increased efficiency.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ozon Expands Logistics in Far East and Urals for Ecommerce Growth

Ozon Expands Logistics in Far East and Urals for Ecommerce Growth

Ozon is investing 8.5 billion rubles in customs logistics centers and fulfillment centers in the Far East and Ural regions. This aims to alleviate customs clearance issues, shorten delivery times, and support local business development. This initiative will significantly improve the logistics infrastructure in the Far East, enhance e-commerce service quality, and stimulate local economic growth. Ozon has also launched the "Made in Yakutia" showcase to help local businesses expand into the national market.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Services Sector Stays Strong Despite Q1 Tariff Worries

US Services Sector Stays Strong Despite Q1 Tariff Worries

U.S. non-manufacturing activity maintained solid growth in March, albeit at a slightly slower pace. Sector performance was mixed, with a notable decrease in new orders. Tariff-related uncertainties presented additional challenges for businesses. Companies need to closely monitor market changes, flexibly adjust their business strategies, and seek opportunities amidst the uncertainty. The slowdown in new orders suggests potential headwinds, requiring proactive measures to sustain growth and navigate the evolving economic landscape.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturers Sue EPA Over Greenhouse Gas Regulations

US Manufacturers Sue EPA Over Greenhouse Gas Regulations

The National Association of Manufacturers, along with several companies, is suing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), challenging its new regulations on greenhouse gas emissions. Manufacturers are concerned about rising costs, policy uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and decreased competitiveness. This lawsuit reflects the tension between environmental protection and economic development. The outcome will significantly impact the US manufacturing sector and global supply chains, potentially reshaping how businesses operate and invest in a more sustainable future.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Warehouse Shortage Hits Record Low CBRE Reports

US Warehouse Shortage Hits Record Low CBRE Reports

A CBRE report indicates that the US industrial real estate vacancy rate continues to decline to a historic low, exacerbating the supply-demand imbalance. E-commerce growth and economic expansion are key drivers, with future supply expected to catch up with demand. Businesses need to pay attention to market segmentation differences, technological innovation, and policy impacts. By seizing opportunities and addressing challenges, companies can achieve long-term growth in the industrial real estate sector.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Expands in September Despite Supply Chain Strains

US Manufacturing Expands in September Despite Supply Chain Strains

The September ISM Manufacturing Report indicates continued growth in the US manufacturing sector despite ongoing supply chain challenges, with a PMI of 61.1. New orders remain strong, but production is constrained by raw material shortages. Employment is rebounding. Supply chain bottlenecks persist, leading to price increases. Experts anticipate these issues will continue, but also present opportunities. Businesses need to proactively address these challenges to navigate the current economic landscape and maintain growth.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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