WCO Supports Gambia Revenue Authoritys HR Modernization

WCO Supports Gambia Revenue Authoritys HR Modernization

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting the modernization of human resource management at the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization Project. This project assisted the GRA in finalizing key tools such as the competency directory, job directory, service charter, and job descriptions, laying the groundwork for future communication and change management. The WCO will continue to support the GRA in improving its management level, promoting regional trade facilitation and economic development.

WCO Enhances Asiapacific IP Protection with New Experts

WCO Enhances Asiapacific IP Protection with New Experts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Technical and Operational Advisor (TOA) Accreditation Workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in Japan. This initiative aims to strengthen the IPR enforcement capabilities of customs administrations in the Asia-Pacific region. By certifying highly qualified experts, the WCO is committed to building a sustainable IPR protection system, combating cross-border trade in counterfeit and pirated goods, and promoting the construction of an IPR protection community in the Asia-Pacific region.

Comptia Calls for Global Digital Trade System Overhaul

Comptia Calls for Global Digital Trade System Overhaul

CompTIA urges the World Customs Organization (WCO) to optimize the Harmonized System (HS) to adapt to the rapidly evolving business landscape. Recommendations include revisiting valuation criteria, shortening review cycles, increasing private sector involvement, and providing explanatory notes free of charge. These suggestions aim to facilitate the digital transformation of global trade by ensuring the HS accurately reflects modern goods and services. Updating the HS is crucial for efficient customs procedures and smooth international commerce in the digital age.

Tiktok Shop Plans US Expansion Via Talkshoplive Deal

Tiktok Shop Plans US Expansion Via Talkshoplive Deal

TikTok plans to indirectly enter the North American live shopping market through a partnership with TalkShopLive. By collaborating with this live streaming platform, which already partners with Walmart, TikTok hopes to bypass some obstacles and introduce its Shop business to the US. This move could create new opportunities for Chinese sellers looking to expand their reach in the North American e-commerce landscape. The partnership allows TikTok to test the waters without directly facing regulatory hurdles and infrastructure challenges.

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.3% year-over-year in the week ending January 21st, while intermodal volume decreased by 6.7%. Cumulative data for the first three weeks of the year shows a 3% increase in carloads and an 8.4% decrease in intermodal volume. Overall, North American rail freight presents a mixed picture, with the market influenced by a combination of economic conditions, supply chains, and energy prices.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volume Rebounds Signaling Economic Shift

US Rail Freight Volume Rebounds Signaling Economic Shift

According to the Association of American Railroads (AAR) data, U.S. rail freight volume saw a significant increase in the third week of February, though intermodal units declined year-over-year. Coal, nonmetallic minerals, and chemicals led the gains. While total North American rail freight volume increased, regional variations were apparent. It's crucial to monitor long-term trends, conduct in-depth data analysis, and consider other economic indicators for a more accurate assessment of the economic trajectory.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Rise Intermodal Dip in Late January

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Rise Intermodal Dip in Late January

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic presented a mixed picture in late January. Carload traffic increased year-over-year, driven by nonmetallic minerals and coal. However, intermodal traffic declined, potentially indicating weak consumer demand. Year-to-date, carload traffic has seen cumulative growth, while intermodal volume has decreased, suggesting downward pressure on the overall North American rail transport market. Key factors to watch include inflation, interest rates, geopolitical events, and the energy transition.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 20, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased by 2.4%. Year-to-date carloads are roughly flat compared to last year, but intermodal volume is down 5.5%. Overall, North American rail freight has seen slight growth, but continues to face challenges from global economic slowdown and supply chain disruptions. Railroad companies need to innovate to address these challenges and seize opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volume

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volume

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant recent increase in U.S. rail carload traffic, primarily driven by coal and minerals. Container traffic, however, has slightly decreased, potentially due to global supply chain challenges. Year-to-date, overall freight volume remains on a downward trend. North American rail performance generally surpasses that of the U.S., with Mexico experiencing strong growth. The rail freight market faces a mixed landscape of challenges and opportunities moving forward.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Container Volumes

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Container Volumes

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending January 21st, U.S. rail carloads increased by 3.3% year-over-year, while container traffic decreased by 6.7%, showing a diverging trend. A similar pattern was observed in overall North American rail freight volume, reflecting economic recovery uncertainties, supply chain challenges, and shifting consumer demand. The mixed performance highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing the transportation sector and its role as a key economic indicator.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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