Africa Customs Modernizes with EUWCO Trade System Update

Africa Customs Modernizes with EUWCO Trade System Update

The EU-WCO Harmonized System (HS) Africa Programme aims to enhance customs management in Africa by standardizing commodity classification, facilitating regional trade, and supporting the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The inaugural meeting of the Steering Committee marks the substantial advancement of the project. All parties will collaborate to build a new landscape for African trade. The program seeks to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade barriers, and promote economic growth across the continent through harmonized standards and improved efficiency.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Framework Aims to Boost Gender Equality in Global Trade

New Framework Aims to Boost Gender Equality in Global Trade

During the 2019 WTO Global Review of Aid for Trade, the WCO co-organized a side event focusing on gender mainstreaming in trade facilitation. The meeting highlighted the importance of gender equality, revealing barriers to women's participation in trade. Experiences from the EU and Uganda were shared, and the WCO presented its tools and initiatives to promote gender equality and diversity in customs. This event laid the groundwork for future efforts to promote gender equality within Aid for Trade initiatives.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Austria Pushes Sustainable Aviation Fuel for Economic Growth

Austria Pushes Sustainable Aviation Fuel for Economic Growth

The Austrian Federal Government is actively promoting sustainable aviation through policy support, technological innovation, and industrial cooperation, aiming to combine aviation, climate protection, and technology to create a new engine for economic development. Austria plans to strongly develop Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and has set climate targets that are ahead of the EU, committing to decarbonizing the transportation sector and building a more competitive green economy. The focus is on fostering innovation and collaboration to achieve ambitious sustainability goals in the aviation industry.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ecommerce Sellers Face Risks from Underdeclaring Shipments

Ecommerce Sellers Face Risks from Underdeclaring Shipments

AliExpress sellers should be wary of customer requests for under-declaration, as compliance can lead to customs fines and buyer refund risks. Brazilian customs inspections are strict, and VAT collection by platforms in the EU market renders under-declaration pointless. Under the DDP model, customs duties are already collected by the platform. Sellers should refuse unreasonable requests, clearly define responsibilities in communication, and retain evidence to protect themselves. Ignoring these issues can lead to significant financial and legal repercussions for AliExpress businesses.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lige Airport Struggles to Balance Growth and Environmental Goals

Lige Airport Struggles to Balance Growth and Environmental Goals

Liège Airport faces challenges due to a new environmental operating permit aimed at reducing noise pollution. The airport argues the permit will severely impact its cargo capacity. This conflict between the airport's operations and local residents' concerns reflects the broader EU challenge of balancing environmental protection with economic development. Potential solutions include technological innovation, operational optimization, and noise mitigation strategies to address the concerns and allow the airport to maintain its crucial air cargo role. These solutions are crucial for the airport's future.

12/31/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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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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Chinas Ecommerce Boom Key Drivers and Future Outlook

Chinas Ecommerce Boom Key Drivers and Future Outlook

China boasts the highest e-commerce penetration rate globally, leading in innovative models. European e-commerce is experiencing rapid growth, with a strong emphasis on branding. Both Chinese and European e-commerce possess distinct advantages, collectively contributing to the advancement of global e-commerce. China's leads in mobile payment and live streaming commerce, while Europe emphasizes data privacy and sustainability. The differences create a dynamic global market.

12/30/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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