HS 2028 Revisions Aim to Simplify Green Trade Reduce Plastic Waste

HS 2028 Revisions Aim to Simplify Green Trade Reduce Plastic Waste

The World Customs Organization (WCO) 2028 HS Code update helps governments and businesses tackle plastic pollution challenges through more precise commodity classification. The new codes focus on environmentally friendly plastics, single-use plastic products, and related items. This aims to improve trade transparency, promote a circular economy, and create new green trade opportunities for businesses. By specifically identifying and categorizing these goods, the updated HS Code facilitates better monitoring and regulation of plastic waste streams and encourages the adoption of sustainable practices in international trade.

02/06/2026 HS Code Query
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Global Shipping Crisis Worsens As Blank Sailings Surge

Global Shipping Crisis Worsens As Blank Sailings Surge

The global shipping industry faces significant challenges due to US-China trade friction, with a surge in blank sailings surpassing even pandemic levels. Reports indicate a substantial decline in freight volume on Asia-US routes. Businesses should proactively plan, diversify sourcing, and strengthen collaborations to navigate the evolving trade landscape. The increase in blank sailings indicates reduced demand and capacity management by shipping companies in response to the trade tensions and their impact on cargo volumes.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Aids Costa Rica in Strengthening Supply Chains Via AEO

WCO Aids Costa Rica in Strengthening Supply Chains Via AEO

WCO assists Costa Rica in reviewing its AEO manual and strategy to establish a customs-led AEO program, enhancing trade security and efficiency. AEO certification facilitates customs clearance, improves security, and provides international recognition. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes, reduce border delays, and foster a more secure and predictable trading environment for Costa Rican businesses involved in international trade. The focus is on aligning the AEO program with international standards and best practices to maximize its benefits.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Jordan Customs Boosts Air Cargo Efficiency with Dubai Model

Jordan Customs Boosts Air Cargo Efficiency with Dubai Model

Jordan Customs, with support from the WCO and SECO, studied Dubai Customs' best practices in air cargo clearance to enhance its capabilities and align with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to optimize risk management, promote automation, strengthen inter-agency cooperation, and improve the e-commerce environment within Jordan Customs. The goal is to contribute to global trade facilitation by implementing lessons learned from the Dubai experience, ultimately streamlining customs processes and reducing trade costs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Central America Adopts Kyoto Convention to Modernize Customs

Central America Adopts Kyoto Convention to Modernize Customs

The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)-World Customs Organization Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) launched an assistance program in Central America to help countries adopt the Revised Kyoto Convention, simplify customs procedures, and promote trade facilitation. Through workshops, self-assessments, and capacity building, the project will support Central America in improving customs management and integrating into the global trade system. The initiative aims to enhance efficiency and transparency in customs operations across the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Shipping Industry Grapples With Terminal Handling Charges

Shipping Industry Grapples With Terminal Handling Charges

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the Terminal Handling Charge (THC) in international shipping. It details the core definition, cost components, varying charges across different ports, and factors influencing rate fluctuations. Furthermore, based on Incoterms®, it clarifies the responsibility for THC under different trade terms. The aim is to help cargo owners better understand and control shipping costs, and avoid trade disputes. It offers a comprehensive overview of THC and its implications for international trade.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Colombia Customs Boosts Risk Management with WCO Aid

Colombia Customs Boosts Risk Management with WCO Aid

The WCO held a workshop in Colombia to help DIAN improve its risk management capabilities. Experts provided instruction, and DIAN actively participated. The GTFP will continue to support DIAN's technological transformation over the next three years, promoting trade facilitation. The workshop aimed to strengthen DIAN's ability to identify and mitigate potential risks in cross-border trade, enhancing security and efficiency. Through enhanced risk management practices and customs cooperation, DIAN can contribute to a more secure and facilitated trade environment.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Key to Enforcing Global Environmental Pacts

Customs Key to Enforcing Global Environmental Pacts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with UNEP and the Basel Convention Secretariat, held a workshop in Botswana to enhance customs officers' awareness and enforcement capabilities related to the Basel and Montreal Conventions. The workshop highlighted the crucial role of customs in implementing multilateral environmental agreements and looked forward to future cooperation in building a green trade landscape. The initiative aims to strengthen customs' ability to combat illegal trade in environmentally sensitive goods and promote sustainable trade practices.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Oakland Port Shifts Focus As US Farm Exports Diversify From China

Oakland Port Shifts Focus As US Farm Exports Diversify From China

Despite ongoing US-China trade tensions, agricultural exports from the Port of Oakland have shown resilience. While the proportion of exports to China has decreased, growing demand from other Asian markets has driven overall export value upwards. US exporters are actively adjusting their strategies and diversifying their market footprint, reshaping the global trade landscape. This shift highlights the adaptability of the agricultural sector in navigating complex international trade dynamics and finding new avenues for growth beyond traditional markets.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Launches Digital Tools to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

WCO Launches Digital Tools to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

This paper focuses on the core online resources offered by the World Customs Organization (WCO) for capacity builders, including the WCO Trade Tools, WCO Bookshop, Customs Enforcement Network (CEN), and the WCO Online Learning platform. The aim is to help readers quickly understand and effectively utilize these tools to enhance their professional capabilities and promote compliance and efficiency in international trade. It provides a concise overview of these resources for improved customs capacity and trade facilitation.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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