WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with EU funding, held a Technical and Operational Advisor (TOA) accreditation workshop for French-speaking African countries. The aim was to enhance customs officials' skills in areas like commodity classification, origin, and valuation. Through pre-accreditation and field visit assessments, the project seeks to expand the pool of experts and facilitate regional trade. Quantitative evaluation and continuous improvement are crucial for the project's success, contributing to the upgrading of African trade. The program ultimately aims to streamline customs procedures and boost economic development within the region.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

With support from the EU-WCO and the German Alliance for Trade Facilitation, Côte d'Ivoire is actively developing a national Advance Ruling System. This initiative aims to enhance trade transparency and predictability, reduce trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and improve customs efficiency. The system is expected to revitalize Côte d'Ivoire's trade development and serve as a model for other African nations. It will provide traders with binding rulings on tariff classification, origin, and other customs-related matters before import or export, fostering a more predictable and reliable trading environment.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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
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Shipping Costs Surge Importers Brace for 2026 Trade Challenges

Shipping Costs Surge Importers Brace for 2026 Trade Challenges

Contrary to expectations, sea freight rates surged at the beginning of 2026, influenced by the Red Sea crisis, pre-Chinese New Year shipping rush, and the EU Emissions Trading System. Asia-Europe and trans-Pacific routes experienced significant price increases, adding cost pressure to foreign trade companies. This article analyzes the reasons behind the price hikes and proposes coping strategies for foreign trade enterprises, aiming to help them find certainty in their supply chains amidst uncertainty. It explores ways to mitigate the impact of volatile shipping costs and optimize supply chain operations.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Postal and Customs Agencies Streamline Crossborder Ecommerce

Postal and Customs Agencies Streamline Crossborder Ecommerce

The WCO-UPU Liaison Committee meeting focused on Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) to enhance the security and efficiency of the postal supply chain. Key topics included data quality, capacity building, and discussions on the EU UCC, pre-loading cargo information, AEO accreditation, e-commerce cooperation, combating illicit trade, and innovative practices. The meeting aimed to support the development of cross-border e-commerce by addressing challenges and promoting secure and streamlined processes. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration and information sharing to facilitate legitimate trade and combat illegal activities within the global postal network.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Amazon Temu Tiktok Reshape US Ecommerce Amid Spring Sales

Amazon Temu Tiktok Reshape US Ecommerce Amid Spring Sales

Cross-border e-commerce platform policies are constantly changing, presenting both opportunities and challenges. With Amazon's European Spring Sale approaching, attention should be paid to warehousing, promotion submission deadlines, and compliance issues. AliExpress is promoting brand globalization and overseas consignment. Temu's market share is surging, making Spring Festival inventory preparation crucial. TikTok is adjusting its US operational strategy and expanding in Europe. eBay's fee increase requires careful cost management. EU trademark applications are at a record high, highlighting the growing importance of intellectual property protection. Staying informed and adaptable is key for success.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Slovakia VAT Rules Challenge Amazon Sellers Posteu Reform

Slovakia VAT Rules Challenge Amazon Sellers Posteu Reform

Amazon Pan-European sellers should be aware of new tax risks. If inventory is transferred to Slovakia, VAT registration in that country is required. This article analyzes the impact of the European tax reform on sellers, emphasizing the importance of monitoring inventory movements and registering for VAT in a timely manner. It advises seeking professional tax advice to navigate the complexities of the EU tax landscape and ensure compliance with VAT regulations in different member states. Ignoring these changes can lead to penalties and disruptions to business operations.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burundi Customs Enhances African Trade with WCO Backing

Burundi Customs Enhances African Trade with WCO Backing

With support from the WCO and the EU, the Burundi Revenue Authority held a national workshop on customs laboratories and the Harmonized System classification of chemical products. The aim is to establish its own laboratory to improve tax collection efficiency, strengthen social and environmental protection, and promote trade facilitation. Guided by WCO experts and through learning technical standards, Burundi Customs is committed to building a first-class customs laboratory, contributing significantly to Burundi's economic development. This initiative is crucial for modernizing customs operations and ensuring compliance with international standards.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Guide Simplifies International Shipping and Customs

Global Trade Guide Simplifies International Shipping and Customs

This article provides an in-depth analysis of major international express services (DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT), highlighting their features and advantages. Combining these with various countries' customs clearance policies, it offers a comprehensive guide to choosing the best international express options. The content covers customs clearance strategies for regions including the US, EU, Southeast Asia, and Africa, as well as key factors influencing clearance and corresponding solutions. The aim is to assist foreign trade companies in selecting cost-effective and efficient international express services, minimizing customs clearance risks, and facilitating smooth access to the global market.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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Upss Failed TNT Bid Slows Logistics Industry Consolidation

Upss Failed TNT Bid Slows Logistics Industry Consolidation

UPS officially withdrew its $6.8 billion acquisition plan of TNT Express after the European Commission concluded the merger would significantly harm competition in the European parcel market. The failed deal not only hinders the consolidation efforts of the logistics giant but also foreshadows a more complex competitive landscape in the future. The EU's antitrust scrutiny played a crucial role in blocking the merger, highlighting the regulatory challenges faced by companies seeking large-scale acquisitions in the logistics sector within the European Union.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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