The second phase of the WCO and JICA's Southern African Customs Valuation Training Program has concluded. The program aimed to develop trainers and enhance regional customs valuation capabilities. Recommendations include strengthening follow-up support and fostering regional cooperation to sustain the program's impact and build upon the progress achieved in improving customs valuation practices within the region.
The WCO and JICA collaborated on an MTP project to train customs valuation officers from five Southern African countries. This initiative aimed to enhance regional customs capacity and facilitate trade development in the region. The project focused on building expertise in customs valuation techniques and promoting international cooperation among customs administrations. Ultimately, the goal was to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of customs operations, contributing to economic growth and regional integration. The training program covered various aspects of customs valuation, ensuring participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly implementing the Customs Valuation (CV) Master Trainer Program (MTP) to create a professional and sustainable pool of CV trainers in Southern Africa. The third working group activity focused on developing training materials and enhancing practical skills. The WCO and JICA are committed to continuously supporting customs capacity building in the region, building an efficient and transparent customs valuation system, and promoting trade development.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported a customs valuation workshop in Cambodia to enhance the valuation capabilities of officers from the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE). The workshop covered the WTO Valuation Agreement, key technical issues, and valuation control measures, sharing case studies and experiences. Through this workshop, Cambodian Customs is expected to improve revenue collection, promote trade facilitation, and inject new vitality into the national economic development. The focus was on practical application and knowledge transfer to improve valuation accuracy and efficiency.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a workshop in Lomé to assist the Togolese Revenue Office (OTR) in rebuilding its customs valuation function. Through diagnostic assessments and practical training, Togolese customs officials gained a better understanding of WTO valuation rules and WCO practices. This initiative aimed to enhance their capacity in customs valuation control and management, laying the foundation for an efficient and transparent customs valuation system in Togo. The workshop focused on improving skills and knowledge related to valuation procedures and international standards.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a new online learning module on customs valuation on its CLiKC! platform. This module aims to enhance the understanding and application of the WTO Valuation Agreement among global trade professionals. The course covers the six valuation methods and provides performance support tools. Funded by the Korea Customs Cooperation Fund, the English version is now available. This initiative will contribute to international trade development and improve customs valuation capabilities worldwide.
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is planning to sell its freight forwarding subsidiary, DB Schenker, for $25 billion to focus on its core railway business. DSV is considered a potential acquirer. If the acquisition goes through, DSV would become the world's largest air freight forwarder. The sale reflects a strategic shift for DB, streamlining its operations and potentially reshaping the global logistics landscape with DSV's strengthened position.
Amazon's Prime Fall Deal event concluded, presenting growth opportunities for sellers. However, concerns arose regarding exclusive discount display issues and increased weighting for Amazon's first-party products. Rational promotions became prevalent, with the long-term impact pending data validation. Sellers need to closely monitor market trends and adjust their business strategies accordingly to navigate the evolving landscape and maintain competitiveness in the Amazon marketplace.
Zebra is evaluating its robotics business, potentially realigning its strategy due to market competition and differences from its core business. The previous acquisition of Fetch Robotics aimed to improve warehouse efficiency. This evaluation suggests a shift in focus or approach within the robotics sector, possibly prioritizing specific applications or exploring partnerships. The decision reflects the dynamic landscape of robotic automation and the need for companies to adapt their strategies to maintain competitiveness and optimize resource allocation. The future of Zebra's robotics involvement remains to be seen.
HMM, the world's eighth-largest liner company, is up for sale again with an estimated value of $6.8 billion, drawing global attention to the shipping industry. The South Korean government's push to exit state-owned assets is the primary driver. HMM's substantial capacity, diversified business portfolio, and core competitiveness have attracted interest from multiple companies. This acquisition will profoundly impact the global shipping landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges for shippers and freight forwarders. The final outcome remains to be seen.
