EUWCO Project Boosts African Customs Modernization Trade

EUWCO Project Boosts African Customs Modernization Trade

The EU-WCO cooperation project promotes customs modernization in Africa by optimizing the Harmonized System and rules of origin, and strengthening capacity building. This creates a more efficient trade environment, fostering intra-African trade and regional economic integration. The project has yielded significant results and will continue to support African customs development, contributing to the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Its focus on streamlining procedures and enhancing skills will be crucial for unlocking Africa's trade potential and fostering sustainable economic growth across the continent.

Slow SAF Growth Risks Airline Climate Targets

Slow SAF Growth Risks Airline Climate Targets

IATA reports that the growth of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is slowing down, primarily due to insufficient policy support. Counterproductive mandates in the EU and UK may force airlines to reassess their SAF usage targets. Experts recommend establishing long-term policy frameworks, providing incentives, streamlining approvals, and supporting technological innovation to promote SAF development and help the aviation industry achieve its decarbonization goals. Stronger policy backing is crucial to overcome current obstacles and accelerate the adoption of SAF, ensuring a sustainable future for air travel.

Algeria Boosts Trade Security with Dutch Customs Lab Aid

Algeria Boosts Trade Security with Dutch Customs Lab Aid

Algerian experts visited the Netherlands to study customs laboratories, aiming to adopt best practices for building a modern customs laboratory in Algeria. The visit focused on work organization, infrastructure, and technology application, with a deep dive into the laboratory's role in tariff classification. This initiative is part of the EU-World Customs Organization (WCO) HS-Africa Programme, designed to enhance customs management in African countries, promoting trade facilitation and security. The knowledge gained will contribute to Algeria's efforts to improve its customs procedures and efficiency.

Polands Furniture Industry Adopts Green Policies Amid Euchina Trade Shifts

Polands Furniture Industry Adopts Green Policies Amid Euchina Trade Shifts

Poland is adjusting tariffs in its furniture industry to address new EU environmental regulations and domestic industry challenges. Through targeted tax reductions, export incentives, and process optimization, Poland aims to lower compliance costs for businesses, enhance product value, and deepen Sino-Polish trade cooperation. This initiative promotes the green transition and sustainable development of the furniture industry, ultimately achieving a win-win situation for businesses, consumers, and the environment. The adjustments are designed to help the industry adapt to changing market demands and ensure long-term competitiveness.

Chinas Steel Industry Shifts to Green Steel Amid Global Demand

Chinas Steel Industry Shifts to Green Steel Amid Global Demand

China's steel exports hit record highs in 2025, but with significant structural divergence. Faced with trade barriers, companies are actively adjusting strategies, shifting towards exporting semi-finished products like steel billets and benefiting from infrastructure booms in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. China's advantage lies in its complete industrial chain and cost control capabilities. Moving forward, companies should diversify market layouts, optimize product structures, and actively promote green and low-carbon transformation to address challenges like the EU CBAM and seize opportunities in high-end markets.

Dutch Aviation Sector Urges Policy Reforms for Growth

Dutch Aviation Sector Urges Policy Reforms for Growth

The Dutch air transport industry significantly contributes to the economy but faces competitive pressures. This report highlights priorities such as Schiphol Airport expansion, airport charges and investments, and the National Airspace Strategy. It recommends clarifying the maximum number of aircraft movements, promoting CORSIA, and maintaining EU slot allocation rules to enhance industry competitiveness and foster sustainable economic development. These policy recommendations aim to strengthen the Dutch aviation sector's position in the global market and ensure its continued contribution to the national economy while addressing environmental concerns.

Niger Adopts WCO System to Streamline Customs Trade

Niger Adopts WCO System to Streamline Customs Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of Niger Customs to enhance its commodity classification and valuation capabilities, aiming to boost African trade. The assessment covered legal frameworks, organizational structures, personnel skills, information technology, and cooperation mechanisms, proposing improvements incorporated into an EU-funded action plan. This initiative aims to harmonize commodity classification standards, facilitating trade and economic development in Niger and across Africa. The focus is on improving efficiency and transparency in customs procedures to promote regional integration and economic growth.

EUWCO Project Boosts African Free Trade with Rules Harmonization

EUWCO Project Boosts African Free Trade with Rules Harmonization

The EU-WTO Rules of Origin Africa Programme will significantly contribute to finalizing the AfCFTA's Rules of Origin by 2025. This initiative aims to harmonize key origin systems across Africa, fostering a unified approach to trade regulations. By promoting a community of practice focused on origin-related issues, the project supports the broader goal of African economic integration. Ultimately, streamlining and standardizing Rules of Origin will reduce trade barriers and facilitate smoother trade flows within the AfCFTA, boosting economic growth and development across the continent.

WCO Eswatini Pilot Enhanced Customs Training Program

WCO Eswatini Pilot Enhanced Customs Training Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched a pilot training evaluation project in collaboration with the Eswatini Revenue Authority (ERA) to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of customs personnel, processes, and structures. Funded by the EU-HS Africa Programme, the project utilizes a systematic evaluation framework covering five levels: reaction, learning, behavior, results, and return on investment. Emphasizing collaboration and participation, the project's findings were shared with WCO members in February 2022. This initiative aims to strengthen customs capacity and improve overall performance through comprehensive evaluation methodologies.

Schiedam Port Emerges As Europes Agile Trade Hub

Schiedam Port Emerges As Europes Agile Trade Hub

Schiedam Port, a barge port southwest of Rotterdam, Netherlands, plays a significant role in the European shipping network due to its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and professional services. With port codes NLSCM/NLSCI, it focuses on European feeder routes, offering services such as oil tanker unloading and LPG discharge. Its proximity to railways and airports ensures efficient and convenient cargo distribution. The port facilitates seamless connections within Europe's inland waterway transport system.