Global Customs Body Tackles Trade Tech Gender Gaps Island Economies

Global Customs Body Tackles Trade Tech Gender Gaps Island Economies

The 221st/222nd meetings of the WCO Permanent Technical Committee focused on the development of Small Island Economies, Gender Equality, and the application of Technological Foresight. Discussions centered on customs procedures and trade facilitation. The meeting emphasized support for Small Island Economies, highlighted the advancement of women in information technology, and explored the application of technologies like blockchain in customs. The outcomes provide valuable insights and recommendations for the Policy Commission.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Global Network to Promote Gender Equality in Trade

WCO Launches Global Network to Promote Gender Equality in Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched the Gender Equality and Diversity Network to promote gender equality and diversity in global trade. By sharing experiences and providing tools and resources, the WCO aims to empower women, break down trade barriers, and build a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable global trade system. This initiative is a proactive response to the UN's theme of 'Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow' and a significant milestone in the WCO's long-standing efforts to promote inclusivity and fairness in international commerce.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Body Advocates Standard File Format for Trade Security

Global Customs Body Advocates Standard File Format for Trade Security

The WCO promotes the Unified File Format (UFF) to break down barriers in Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) data and build smart borders. It encourages testing of UFF 2.0 and planning for UFF 3.0, aiming to enhance the security and efficiency of global trade. This initiative facilitates seamless data exchange and interoperability, ultimately improving border control and risk management through standardized data formats and procedures. The UFF aims to streamline customs processes and foster greater collaboration among border agencies worldwide.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Freight Booking Simplified Key Steps for Shipping Orders

Freight Booking Simplified Key Steps for Shipping Orders

This article provides a detailed explanation of key terms in foreign trade booking, including Booking, Booking Note, Booking Confirmation, and Shipping Order (S/O), highlighting their meanings and differences. It also offers practical booking procedures and essential considerations to help foreign trade professionals easily master booking skills and successfully conduct international trade. This guide aims to simplify the booking process and ensure smooth international shipping operations.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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WCO Issues XML Guidelines to Enhance Crossborder Data Exchange

WCO Issues XML Guidelines to Enhance Crossborder Data Exchange

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released XML Messaging Guidelines to provide a unified standard for global customs data exchange, promoting the digital transformation of cross-border trade. These guidelines define XML message formats, emphasize interoperability, and are based on the WCO Data Model. This aims to reduce development costs, improve data quality, and accelerate trade processes, ultimately delivering practical value to global trade participants.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Maersk Expands Asiaeurope Routes Amid Emerging Market Push

Maersk Expands Asiaeurope Routes Amid Emerging Market Push

Maersk, a global shipping giant, is reshaping the global maritime landscape by optimizing the Asia-Europe trade lane, expanding into emerging markets in the Middle East and Africa, and improving transatlantic and intra-regional routes. These efforts aim to enhance trade efficiency and promote regional economic development. Maersk's strategic adjustments to its network and market focus demonstrate its commitment to facilitating global commerce and adapting to evolving trade patterns.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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Key Shipping Terms Explained for Global Traders

Key Shipping Terms Explained for Global Traders

This article delves into the two meanings of ETD (Estimated Time of Delivery and Estimated Time of Departure) in international ocean bills of lading. It also elaborates on key shipping terms such as ETA, ATD, and ATA. Through case studies, this aims to help foreign trade personnel accurately understand and utilize these terms, avoiding trade risks caused by misunderstandings. Ultimately, it facilitates the smooth progress of international trade.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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New Trade Policies in Guangxi Aim to Boost Imports and Exports

New Trade Policies in Guangxi Aim to Boost Imports and Exports

This article discusses the new policies implemented by the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to promote stable growth in import and export trade. These measures include reducing the burden on enterprises, implementing a processing trade doubling plan, increasing import rebates, and establishing duty-free shops. The aim of these policies is to drive economic growth, optimize the trade environment, enhance Guangxi's competitiveness in the international market, and ensure steady economic development.

07/28/2025 Logistics
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Colombia Boosts Customs Oversight with Global Partnerships

Colombia Boosts Customs Oversight with Global Partnerships

WCO collaborated with Colombia's DIAN to enhance its customs audit capabilities through the GTFP. The WCO provided support to optimize PCA strategies and SOPs, fostering trade facilitation and economic growth. This partnership aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs procedures, ultimately contributing to a more streamlined and competitive trade environment for Colombia. The collaboration highlights the importance of international cooperation in strengthening customs administrations and promoting global trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Team Up to Upgrade Customs Systems in Developing Countries

WCO JICA Team Up to Upgrade Customs Systems in Developing Countries

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in 2015. This collaboration aims to improve customs administration in developing countries and promote economic development through capacity building, customs modernization, and trade facilitation. Both parties will deepen cooperation, innovate approaches, and jointly address new global trade dynamics. The goal is to build a more open, inclusive, and mutually beneficial global trade landscape.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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