WCO Launches Gender Equality Program for Frenchspeaking Regions

WCO Launches Gender Equality Program for Frenchspeaking Regions

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a French-speaking “Training of Trainers” workshop to enhance gender equality capacity among its members, aiming to establish a pool of recognized experts in the field. The workshop focused on WCO gender equality tools, such as the GEOAT, and blended learning packages, emphasizing the importance of diagnostics, frameworks, and monitoring & evaluation. The WCO looks forward to collaborating with the newly trained experts to promote gender equality within customs systems globally.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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African Customs Labs Enhance Skills Via Asiapacific Training

African Customs Labs Enhance Skills Via Asiapacific Training

In April 2023, the World Customs Organization organized a study visit to Japan for heads of African Customs Laboratories to learn best practices from Asia-Pacific regional customs laboratories. The visit included examining laboratory operation models, technologies, infrastructure, and a tour of the Japan Customs Laboratory. African representatives expressed their commitment to enhancing their national laboratory capabilities and looked forward to future international exchanges and cooperation. The visit highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in strengthening customs laboratory expertise.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Spain Mandates Einvoicing Ireland Expands Energy Subsidies

Spain Mandates Einvoicing Ireland Expands Energy Subsidies

This article highlights six major overseas business opportunities, focusing on Spain's e-invoicing reform, Ireland's energy subsidies, UK's research and development investment, Brazil's e-commerce market, Iran's copper industry investment, and Singapore's new listing policies. It provides forward-looking information and decision-making references for companies seeking to expand internationally. The analysis aims to assist businesses in identifying potential ventures and navigating the complexities of global markets, offering valuable insights for strategic planning and successful overseas expansion.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Services Sector Defies Economic Challenges

US Services Sector Defies Economic Challenges

The US ISM report indicates a slight cooling in non-manufacturing activity in January, but it remains in expansion territory, marking the 108th consecutive month of growth. Key indicators presented a mixed picture, with the government shutdown adding uncertainty. Experts suggest that underlying growth resilience persists. Moving forward, attention should be paid to potential risks, and a flexible approach is needed to navigate market changes. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector continues to show positive, albeit tempered, performance.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Industrial Real Estate Vacancy Hits Record Low Amid Ecommerce Surge

US Industrial Real Estate Vacancy Hits Record Low Amid Ecommerce Surge

CBRE reports that the US industrial real estate market continues to tighten, driven primarily by e-commerce demand. Availability rates have reached new lows, exacerbating the supply-demand imbalance and driving rent increases. The future market presents both opportunities and challenges, with continued e-commerce growth and technological innovation poised to propel the industry forward. The market's strong performance is expected to continue, although at a potentially slower pace as new supply attempts to catch up with demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Services Sector Expands in September Despite ISM Dip

US Services Sector Expands in September Despite ISM Dip

The ISM's September report indicates a slight dip in the Non-Manufacturing Index (NMI) to 58.6, but it remains well above the expansion threshold, signaling continued growth in the sector. The NMI also exceeds the 12-month average. Given the non-manufacturing sector's vital role in the U.S. economy, its solid performance is crucial for overall prosperity. Going forward, it's important to monitor the impact of factors like the global economy, trade policies, and inflation on this sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Target Invests 7B in Supply Chain to Boost Customer Growth

Target Invests 7B in Supply Chain to Boost Customer Growth

Target is investing $7 billion to upgrade its supply chain, transforming stores into forward deployment centers, and optimizing delivery. This includes integrating Shipt and focusing on enhancing customer experience and empowering employees. The goal is to achieve sustainable growth through improved efficiency and a more customer-centric approach. By modernizing its infrastructure and leveraging technology, Target aims to create a seamless and convenient shopping experience while also prioritizing employee well-being and contributing to a more sustainable future.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Human Capital Investment Boosts Customs Efficiency in West and Central Africa

Human Capital Investment Boosts Customs Efficiency in West and Central Africa

The 9th Conference of Heads of Human Resource Management and Training of Customs Administrations of West and Central Africa was held in Ouagadougou, themed "Investing in Human Capital, Driving Performance." Representatives from 11 countries gathered to discuss human resource management reforms and drafted the "Ouagadougou Declaration," emphasizing strategic human resource management, investment in capacity building, and the importance of regional cooperation. Participants expressed gratitude for the World Customs Organization's support and looked forward to continued collaboration.

02/06/2026 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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Mauritius Revenue Authority Boosts Leadership Skills Via WCO Partnership

Mauritius Revenue Authority Boosts Leadership Skills Via WCO Partnership

The WCO, with funding from India, conducted a leadership workshop for the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA). The workshop aimed to enhance management skills, optimize leadership culture, and promote talent development, ultimately contributing to customs modernization. This initiative focused on building leadership capabilities within the MRA, enabling them to effectively manage their operations and drive improvements in customs processes. The training covered key aspects of leadership, fostering a more effective and forward-thinking approach to customs administration in Mauritius.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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