EUWCO Project Supports African Free Trade with Harmonized Rules

EUWCO Project Supports African Free Trade with Harmonized Rules

The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme aims to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by 2025. It focuses on finalizing the rules of origin, harmonizing key African origin regimes, and developing a community of practice for rules of origin. This initiative is expected to lay the groundwork for economic prosperity in Africa by facilitating trade and ensuring the smooth implementation of the AfCFTA agreement. The program will contribute to a more predictable and transparent trade environment across the continent.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EUWCO Project to Strengthen Afcfta Via Rules of Origin by 2025

EUWCO Project to Strengthen Afcfta Via Rules of Origin by 2025

The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme Steering Committee recently convened to review the 2025 project objectives. These objectives include assisting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in finalizing its rules of origin and harmonizing the rules of origin regimes across African countries. The program aims to foster intra-African trade growth and promote regional economic integration. The project seeks to streamline trade processes and reduce barriers within the continent, ultimately contributing to a more unified and prosperous African economy.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Fujians Christmas Decor Exports Surge Dominating Global Markets

Fujians Christmas Decor Exports Surge Dominating Global Markets

In the first 11 months of 2025, Fujian's Christmas supplies exports reached 2.84 billion yuan, accounting for 70% of the province's total festive product exports. Driven by a complete industrial chain, product innovation, and eco-friendly advantages, Fujian's Christmas supplies are popular in markets like the EU and Latin America. Key drivers for export growth include early release of overseas orders, diversified market layout, and policy support. Fujian's "Christmas economy" has extended to new sectors such as food, demonstrating strong development potential.

12/25/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Stord Expands Global Supply Chain with Shipwire Buy

Stord Expands Global Supply Chain with Shipwire Buy

Stord's acquisition of Shipwire aims to expand its global fulfillment network and accelerate its AI-driven supply chain strategy. This acquisition strengthens Stord's presence in the EU and UK while enhancing its AI capabilities. Shipwire's technology and customer base align perfectly with Stord's existing operations, promising smarter and more efficient supply chain solutions for e-commerce and omnichannel brands. The deal will allow Stord to offer more comprehensive and technologically advanced services to its clients, improving delivery times and reducing costs.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Namibia Boosts Customs Skills to Improve Tax Revenue

Namibia Boosts Customs Skills to Improve Tax Revenue

With the support of the EU-WCO Harmonized System Programme for Africa, the Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) organized a national commodity classification workshop. This initiative aims to enhance the commodity classification skills of customs officers, address issues such as incorrect classification and false declarations, and close tax loopholes. By combining online learning with offline workshops, the program strengthens both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, building a comprehensive support system. This contributes to customs modernization, ultimately promoting economic prosperity in Namibia.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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CEEMC Certification Key for Electronic Product Compliance

CEEMC Certification Key for Electronic Product Compliance

CE-EMC certification is a mandatory requirement for electronic products entering the European Union market. It primarily tests the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of products, encompassing both electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic susceptibility (EMS). EMI testing ensures the product does not emit excessive electromagnetic disturbances, while EMS testing verifies the product's ability to withstand external electromagnetic interference. These tests guarantee the safe and reliable operation of electronic products in complex electromagnetic environments, demonstrating compliance with EU regulations and ensuring product quality.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Palestinian Customs Program Advances Leadership and Reform

Palestinian Customs Program Advances Leadership and Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a leadership and management development workshop for Palestinian Customs, aiming to enhance the leadership and management skills of middle and senior managers. The workshop covered key areas such as leadership, personnel management, and change management, employing interactive teaching methods. It was funded by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and the EU Customs Fund. Participants expressed significant benefits and pledged to apply the learned knowledge to their practical work. This initiative contributes to capacity building within Palestinian Customs.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to German VAT Rules for Online Sellers

Guide to German VAT Rules for Online Sellers

This article provides detailed answers to frequently asked questions regarding German Value Added Tax (VAT) for sellers doing business in Germany. It covers topics such as issuing compliant VAT invoices, when to collect VAT, VAT treatment rules for different sales models, and the VAT refund process. Furthermore, it analyzes whether non-EU companies need to register for German VAT in various scenarios. The aim is to help sellers better understand and comply with German VAT regulations, thereby minimizing tax risks.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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USB Backpacks Raise Compliance Concerns for Crossborder Ecommerce

USB Backpacks Raise Compliance Concerns for Crossborder Ecommerce

This article focuses on a case where a cross-border e-commerce seller was forced to register an EU Representative due to selling backpacks with USB ports. It delves into the compliance essentials of CE certification, German WEEE, and packaging laws. The importance of compliance for cross-border e-commerce is emphasized, advising sellers to understand and meet relevant regulatory requirements as early as possible to avoid unnecessary losses. Proactive compliance is crucial for sustainable growth and avoiding penalties in the European market.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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IMF Raises Global Growth Outlook on AI and Trade Gains

IMF Raises Global Growth Outlook on AI and Trade Gains

The IMF raised its global economic growth forecast to 3.3%, primarily driven by increased AI investment and improved trade conditions. Growth projections for major economies like China, the US, and the EU have been revised upward. However, caution is advised regarding potential AI valuation corrections and trade friction risks. The global economic recovery is not uniform, requiring flexible responses from individual countries. The improved outlook reflects a more resilient global economy, but careful monitoring of emerging risks remains crucial for sustained growth.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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