WCO JICA Boost Customs Valuation in Southern Africa

WCO JICA Boost Customs Valuation in Southern Africa

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.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Latin American Tax Officials Gain Skills in Advanced Training Program

Latin American Tax Officials Gain Skills in Advanced Training Program

The IMF, the Spanish Institute for Fiscal Studies, and the WCO jointly delivered a high-level course on tax and customs administration in Latin America. The course aimed to enhance the management capabilities of senior tax and customs officials in the region to address challenges. The upcoming fifth edition will focus on modern management skills and improving voluntary compliance. The Global Trade Facilitation Programme provides crucial support to the region, fostering economic development. This initiative is vital for strengthening governance and promoting sustainable growth within the Latin American context.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Stresses Supply Chain Resilience at ADBI Conference

WCO Stresses Supply Chain Resilience at ADBI Conference

World Customs Organization (WCO) Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya delivered a keynote speech at the Asian Development Bank Institute Annual Conference, highlighting the multiple challenges facing global supply chains, including digitalization, data standardization, technological changes, e-commerce development, environmental issues, and border conflicts. He called for strengthened international cooperation to enhance the role of customs in supply chain resilience, jointly address these challenges, and promote the stability and sustainable development of global trade. This collaborative effort is crucial for navigating the complexities and ensuring a robust global trading system.

02/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Russias Ecommerce Market Adapts to Data Competition and Policy Changes

Russias Ecommerce Market Adapts to Data Competition and Policy Changes

Russian e-commerce is undergoing transformation. Wildberries is opening its data, intensifying competition with Yandex. Strategic goals remain to be achieved, and product labeling is proving effective. The market sees growth in health and smart products, as well as increased trade between China and Russia. This data-driven approach and the rise of cross-border e-commerce are key factors shaping the future of the Russian online retail landscape. The effectiveness of these changes in achieving long-term strategic goals remains to be seen, but the initial signs are promising for both consumers and businesses.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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South African Rands Strength Lures Chinese Investors

South African Rands Strength Lures Chinese Investors

The Rand is projected to perform strongly in 2025, breaking through key psychological barriers and signaling positive momentum for the South African economy. Multiple favorable factors are driving the Rand's appreciation, but structural issues require attention. Looking ahead to 2026, the overall outlook for the Rand is optimistic, with potential benefits from expected Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. For Chinese companies planning to expand trade and investment in Africa, exchange rate stability and predictability are crucial. They should seize opportunities to expand their businesses and achieve mutual benefits.

02/12/2026 Exchange Rate Query
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Asiapacific Adopts WCO Framework for Ecommerce Customs

Asiapacific Adopts WCO Framework for Ecommerce Customs

The WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Workshop focused on the implementation of the cross-border e-commerce standards framework. Discussions covered data, taxation, Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), and technology applications. The workshop aimed to enhance customs cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by e-commerce. Key topics included streamlining processes, improving data security, and fostering regional collaboration to facilitate legitimate trade while combating illicit activities within the rapidly growing e-commerce sector. The event emphasized the importance of harmonized standards and best practices for efficient and secure cross-border transactions.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Costeffective Ocean Freight Tips for Italytoshanghai Shipping

Costeffective Ocean Freight Tips for Italytoshanghai Shipping

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the factors influencing shipping costs from Italy to Shanghai, including transport distance, cargo weight and volume, loading and unloading fees, fuel prices, and exchange rate fluctuations. It details the calculation formula for sea freight and various transportation methods such as FCL (Full Container Load), LCL (Less than Container Load), and bulk cargo. Common questions are answered to help businesses optimize logistics costs and enhance international trade competitiveness. The aim is to provide practical guidance for reducing expenses related to maritime transport between Italy and China.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Moldova Streamlines Customs to Boost Ecommerce Growth

Moldova Streamlines Customs to Boost Ecommerce Growth

Moldova is actively pursuing customs reform and embracing e-commerce development. In collaboration with the World Customs Organization, Moldova aims to enhance e-commerce trade facilitation by addressing technical, institutional, and legal shortcomings. Specific measures include establishing an e-commerce task force, strengthening risk management capabilities, and deepening public-private partnerships. This initiative will boost Moldova's competitiveness in the global e-commerce market and provide a model for other developing countries. The reforms are intended to streamline processes and reduce barriers to entry for businesses engaged in cross-border e-commerce.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Pushes Shipping Firms to Ease Farm Export Delays

US Pushes Shipping Firms to Ease Farm Export Delays

The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Department of Agriculture jointly sent a letter to shipping companies urging them to improve agricultural export services or face FMC scrutiny. The letter highlights container shortages, service disruptions, and uneven port utilization. It calls for the restoration of Oakland port calls, utilization of other West Coast port capacity, and restoration of reciprocal trade principles. This increased government oversight aims to protect U.S. agricultural interests, potentially posing risks for shipping companies. The focus is on addressing current supply chain issues impacting agricultural exports.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Beijings Dual Airports Boost Northeast Asias Economy

Beijings Dual Airports Boost Northeast Asias Economy

The North China aviation hub (Beijing) leverages a dual-hub model to drive economic growth in Northeast Asia. The Capital Airport and Daxing Airport complement each other's functions, while SF Airlines' strategic layout enhances logistics capabilities. Beijing, as a hub, promotes regional logistics and trade. The future aims to build an intelligent and green aviation logistics system, contributing to global economic development. The complementary functions of the two airports are key to this strategy, ensuring efficient passenger and cargo handling and solidifying Beijing's role as a major international aviation center.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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