WCO Launches Global Network to Promote Gender Equality in Trade

WCO Launches Global Network to Promote Gender Equality in Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched the Gender Equality and Diversity Network to promote gender equality and diversity in global trade. By sharing experiences and providing tools and resources, the WCO aims to empower women, break down trade barriers, and build a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable global trade system. This initiative is a proactive response to the UN's theme of 'Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow' and a significant milestone in the WCO's long-standing efforts to promote inclusivity and fairness in international commerce.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Body Advocates Standard File Format for Trade Security

Global Customs Body Advocates Standard File Format for Trade Security

The WCO promotes the Unified File Format (UFF) to break down barriers in Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) data and build smart borders. It encourages testing of UFF 2.0 and planning for UFF 3.0, aiming to enhance the security and efficiency of global trade. This initiative facilitates seamless data exchange and interoperability, ultimately improving border control and risk management through standardized data formats and procedures. The UFF aims to streamline customs processes and foster greater collaboration among border agencies worldwide.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Global Network to Promote Gender Equality in Trade

WCO Launches Global Network to Promote Gender Equality in Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the Gender Equality and Diversity Network to promote gender mainstreaming in human resource management, policymaking, and technology application within customs administrations worldwide. The initiative aims to address challenges posed by the pandemic and provide relevant tools and resources. Ultimately, the network seeks to foster a more inclusive and sustainable trade future by ensuring gender considerations are fully integrated into customs operations and policies globally.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade System ATA Carnet to Go Digital by 2027

Global Trade System ATA Carnet to Go Digital by 2027

The ATA/Istanbul Convention Administrative Committee meeting focused on the digital transformation of the ATA Carnet system, aiming for full global digital customs clearance by 2027. The meeting established a global transition timeline for e-ATA and emphasized the importance of customs readiness guidelines and global training. The goal is to enhance customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, and ensure trade security, ultimately fostering a new future for global trade. This initiative promises streamlined processes and improved security measures, contributing to a more efficient and secure international trade environment.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zambia Adopts ATA Convention to Ease Temporary Imports Enhance Trade

Zambia Adopts ATA Convention to Ease Temporary Imports Enhance Trade

Zambia has officially joined the ATA Convention, becoming the 65th contracting party. This accession will simplify temporary import procedures, reduce trade costs, and promote international trade facilitation. The ATA Convention, through the ATA Carnet, a universally recognized international customs document, allows businesses and individuals to temporarily import goods between contracting parties without paying duties and taxes. This will contribute to Zambia's economic development and the prosperity of global trade by streamlining cross-border movement of goods for various purposes.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Heilongjiang Smart Ports Boost Trade As Cargo Hits 300M Tons

Heilongjiang Smart Ports Boost Trade As Cargo Hits 300M Tons

Heilongjiang Province significantly improved trade efficiency and freight capacity through the construction of smart ports. In 2025, the total import and export value reached a record high of 312.59 billion yuan, marking five consecutive years of growth. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, port freight volume reached 310 million tons, and the total import and export value reached 1.39 trillion yuan, representing increases of 70.3% and 84.2% respectively. The application of intelligent equipment is a key driving force behind this success.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Mexicos Lazaro Cardenas Port Challenges US West Coast Trade Dominance

Mexicos Lazaro Cardenas Port Challenges US West Coast Trade Dominance

The rise of Mexico's deep-water port, Lazaro Cardenas, poses a potential threat to US West Coast ports. Its strategic location, deep-water advantage, rail connectivity, and cost advantages attract shippers. To counter this competition, US West Coast ports need to improve efficiency, upgrade infrastructure, seek policy support, and offer value-added services. The future holds both competition and cooperation. The key lies in seizing opportunities and meeting challenges.

02/12/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Global Trade to Hit Record High in 2024 Despite Tariffs

Global Trade to Hit Record High in 2024 Despite Tariffs

UNCTAD forecasts global trade to reach a new high of $33 trillion in 2024, driven primarily by services. Developed economies are leading the growth, while developing economies face pressure, with significant divergence across sectors. The report warns of potential tariff policy risks from the US, and recommends that countries diversify trade, strengthen innovation and cooperation to address challenges and seize opportunities. The aim is to promote sustainable global trade development.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Tackles Customs Law Reform As Nationalism Grows

WCO Tackles Customs Law Reform As Nationalism Grows

The 13th World Customs Law Conference focused on customs law changes and multilateral trade system challenges against the backdrop of nationalism. The World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized the crucial role of capacity building in addressing trade protectionism and presented its work in e-commerce. The conference also discussed issues such as the participation of Least Developed Countries in international trade, the EU Customs Code, and challenges for customs brokers. The aim was to promote trade facilitation and security, and to maintain the stability of the global trading system.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and IPPC Boost Global Trade with Stricter Plant Health Rules

WCO and IPPC Boost Global Trade with Stricter Plant Health Rules

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) signed a cooperation agreement to promote the safety and efficiency of international trade in plants and plant products. The cooperation will focus on five key areas: electronic data exchange, e-commerce, sea containers, single windows, and communication and promotion. The aim is to build a safer and more efficient plant trade system, inject new vitality into global trade, and build a global community of plant health. This partnership will contribute to smoother and more secure international trade flows.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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