US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

A Descartes report reveals a significant drop in U.S. container imports in May, with China freight experiencing a record decline due to trade friction and tariffs. The share of East Coast and Gulf Coast ports increased, while West Coast ports saw a decrease, indicating a profound shift in trade patterns. The impact of ongoing trade disputes is clearly visible in the reduced import volumes and the changing dynamics between different port regions.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Global Customs Body Warns of Rising Smuggling Threats

Global Customs Body Warns of Rising Smuggling Threats

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released its latest 'Smuggling Trends Report,' providing an in-depth analysis of illicit trade dynamics and trends, offering risk alerts and compliance guidance for businesses. The report emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in helping businesses identify vulnerabilities, strengthen supply chain security, and maintain global trade stability. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding evolving smuggling patterns and implementing proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with illegal trade activities.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Yangjiang Firms Adopt SOP System to Enhance Exports

Yangjiang Firms Adopt SOP System to Enhance Exports

The Foreign Trade Super Mario service system is specifically designed for Yangjiang premium merchants, offering efficient SOP solutions to boost inquiry conversion. Through practical case studies and precise marketing positioning, it helps merchants build a million-dollar foreign trade elite team and achieve doubled performance. This system focuses on streamlining processes and maximizing the effectiveness of each stage of the foreign trade journey, ultimately leading to increased sales and market share for Yangjiang businesses.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Shipping Guide Streamlining Customs Clearance

Global Shipping Guide Streamlining Customs Clearance

International express customs clearance is a crucial aspect of global trade. This article provides a detailed analysis of customs clearance requirements, procedures, and precautions for different types of goods, including personal items, commercial samples, general trade goods, and special items. It also analyzes the customs clearance time and costs for each type of cargo. The aim is to help businesses and individuals master customs clearance strategies, improve efficiency, reduce costs, and facilitate smooth global trade.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Doortodoor Shipping Incoterms Methods and Costs

Guide to Doortodoor Shipping Incoterms Methods and Costs

This article delves into the "Door-to-Door" service in foreign trade, elaborating on its definition, advantages, relevant Incoterms (DDP), comparison with other delivery methods, cost structure, and key considerations. It aims to help foreign trade enterprises better understand and utilize "Door-to-Door" services, ultimately improving the efficiency of international trade. The article provides a comprehensive overview of this convenient shipping option and its implications for businesses engaged in global commerce.

01/30/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Turkmenistan Boosts Customs Expertise in WCO Workshop

Turkmenistan Boosts Customs Expertise in WCO Workshop

In February 2025, the WCO and Turkmenistan co-organized an HS workshop in Ashgabat. The workshop aimed to enhance customs' tariff classification capabilities and contribute to trade development. This initiative underscores the importance of accurate and consistent tariff classification for efficient border management and international trade facilitation. By strengthening customs' expertise in the Harmonized System, the workshop supports Turkmenistan's efforts to align with international standards and promote economic growth through streamlined trade processes.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Adopts WCO Program to Modernize Customs

Colombia Adopts WCO Program to Modernize Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Colombian Customs (DIAN) launched the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP). This initiative aims to enhance Colombian Customs' capabilities in areas like risk management and post-clearance audit through capacity building support. The program seeks to simplify customs procedures, improve clearance efficiency, and reduce trade costs. Ultimately, the GTFP intends to promote Colombia's economic growth and sustainable development, injecting strong momentum into the country's trade development.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahrain Customs Boosts Clearance Efficiency with WCO Support

Bahrain Customs Boosts Clearance Efficiency with WCO Support

Bahrain Customs is collaborating with the WCO to enhance clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, and promote trade facilitation by establishing a robust post-clearance audit mechanism and building a pre-clearance system. A WCO expert team held a workshop in Bahrain, providing professional training to Bahrain Customs officials to help them achieve their trade facilitation goals. This collaboration aims to streamline customs processes and contribute to a more efficient and competitive trading environment for Bahrain.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Customs Clarifies Import Rules for Smartwatches and Drones

US Customs Clarifies Import Rules for Smartwatches and Drones

The Harmonized System Committee of the World Customs Organization has released its latest commodity classification decisions, clarifying the customs classification standards for high-tech products such as smartwatches and drones. This move helps companies accurately declare import and export goods, reduce trade risks, and promote the improvement of international trade rules. It provides clearer guidelines for customs authorities and businesses alike, ensuring consistent application of tariffs and trade regulations for these rapidly evolving technologies.

02/03/2026 HS Code Query
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World Customs Day Highlights Global Connectivity Efforts

World Customs Day Highlights Global Connectivity Efforts

The theme of World Customs Day 2012 was "Connectivity." The World Customs Organization aimed to strengthen cooperation within the global customs community by enhancing connections at the people, institutional, and information levels. This initiative sought to improve trade efficiency and security, build a closer global customs community, and ultimately serve the development of global trade. The focus was on fostering seamless and secure trade flows through enhanced collaboration and information sharing among customs administrations worldwide.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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