WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

The WCO assisted Uganda in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, enhancing customs capabilities. This support focused on optimizing strategic planning, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and risk management. A multi-year development plan was also formulated to guide Uganda Customs in its modernization efforts, streamlining processes and improving efficiency in line with international standards. The collaboration aims to facilitate trade and boost economic growth in Uganda through enhanced customs procedures and improved border management.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Boosts Customs Skills with WCO Training

Moldova Boosts Customs Skills with WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Customs Valuation workshop for Moldova Customs to enhance their valuation capabilities. The workshop covered the WTO Valuation Agreement, application of valuation databases, valuation of used goods, handling of assistance and royalties, and advance rulings. This workshop improved the professional competence of Moldova Customs officers, laying a foundation for trade facilitation. The training provided practical knowledge and skills necessary for accurate and efficient customs valuation procedures, contributing to smoother international trade flows.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Customs Enhances Trade with WCO Time Release Study

Bahamas Customs Enhances Trade with WCO Time Release Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Bahamas Customs in conducting its first Time Release Study (TRS) to identify clearance bottlenecks, optimize processes, and lay the groundwork for implementing a Single Window system. This initiative helps the Bahamas comply with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and enhances trade efficiency, improves the business environment, and provides new impetus for WTO accession and economic development. The implementation steps of the TRS and the advantages of the Single Window are also detailed.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Revised Kyoto Convention Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

Revised Kyoto Convention Boosts Global Trade Efficiency

The 15th session of the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) Management Committee focused on broader accession and effective implementation of the Convention, discussing key principles, challenges, and potential solutions. The meeting highlighted the RKC's crucial role in supporting the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. A decision was made to establish a new virtual working group to review and update the Convention, ensuring its adaptation to modern customs management needs. This aims to promote trade facilitation and development globally.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Trumps Tariff Threat Reignites Uschina Trade War

Trumps Tariff Threat Reignites Uschina Trade War

Trump has once again issued a strong signal on US-China trade, threatening to raise tariffs on Chinese goods to 155% and setting a deadline of November 1st. Despite this, he remains optimistic about reaching a deal and plans to meet with Chinese representatives during the APEC Summit. Simultaneously, the US and Australia have signed a key minerals agreement aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese supply chains. The future direction of the US-China trade war remains uncertain.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Negotiated Rate Agreements Ease Shipping Industry Challenges

Negotiated Rate Agreements Ease Shipping Industry Challenges

The Negotiated Rates Agreement (NRA) is a document regulated by the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission that ensures shipping rates are recorded and approved before loading. It protects clients' trade secrets, preventing competitors from accessing freight information. Flexport automates the generation of NRAs to meet compliance requirements, offering customers convenient authorization options to expedite their shipping processes.

08/07/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Xiamen Port And Tianjin Port Strategic Cooperation Opening A New Era Of Modern Logistics Worth Hundreds Of Billions

Xiamen Port And Tianjin Port Strategic Cooperation Opening A New Era Of Modern Logistics Worth Hundreds Of Billions

Xiamen Port, Tianjin Port, and Zhonggu Shipping have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to enhance cooperation between northern and southern ports and promote the development of a trillion-yuan modern logistics industry. The three parties will focus on expanding sea-rail intermodal transport, supply chain markets, and various cooperative fields, facilitating regional economic complementarity and trade exchange.

07/28/2025 Logistics
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Customs Vs National Territory Key for Crossborder Trade

Customs Vs National Territory Key for Crossborder Trade

This paper delves into the distinction between customs territory and national border, emphasizing that the key to defining a customs territory is the “implementation of the same customs law,” and correcting misconceptions about “within the border but outside customs.” It also provides a detailed introduction to the concept and operation of free trade ports, using Singapore and Hong Kong as examples to illustrate the role of free port policies in promoting international trade. Understanding these concepts is crucial for practitioners in cross-border trade.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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US Chamber Touts USMCA As Vital for North American Trade

US Chamber Touts USMCA As Vital for North American Trade

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has reiterated its strong support for the USMCA in a new letter to the USTR. The USMCA guarantees U.S. businesses tariff-free access to the Canadian and Mexican markets, fostering a level playing field and enabling companies to expand within North America. This agreement is crucial for enhancing the global competitiveness of American businesses. It serves as a key to unlocking opportunities in the North American market.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

Gambia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Time Release Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to enhance trade facilitation. Through workshops and technical assistance, the WCO helped Gambia identify bottlenecks in cargo clearance, optimize customs procedures, and align with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The ultimate goal is to improve the business environment and promote sustainable economic development in Gambia. The TRS aims to streamline processes and reduce the time and cost associated with importing and exporting goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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