Gambia Enhances Customs Efficiency with WCO Trade Facilitation Support

Gambia Enhances Customs Efficiency with WCO Trade Facilitation Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in hosting a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop to enhance trade facilitation. Through expert guidance, practical exercises, and action plan development, Gambia aims to establish a trade facilitation baseline, improve its business environment, and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The TRS will precisely identify customs clearance bottlenecks, optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance business competitiveness.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ukchina Trade Routes Face Economic Shifts Amid Rising Tensions

Ukchina Trade Routes Face Economic Shifts Amid Rising Tensions

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the maritime shipping route between China and the United Kingdom. It details the geographical path, key nodes, major route options, types of transport vessels, and the variety of goods transported. The study emphasizes the crucial role of this route as a vital trade corridor connecting China and the UK, highlighting its significant contribution to fostering economic development in both countries.

02/05/2026 Logistics
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Ireland Boosts Green Trade with Sustainable Customs Initiatives

Ireland Boosts Green Trade with Sustainable Customs Initiatives

Irish Customs is actively building a green customs defense line, striving to balance economic development and environmental protection through multilateral regulatory frameworks, clear division of responsibilities, and collaborative partnerships. Focusing on key areas such as plastic and electronic waste, they implement risk-driven compliance standards and establish cooperative enforcement networks with various agencies to ensure the effective implementation of environmental policies. This collaborative approach aims to build a sustainable trade future.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Urges Streamlined Data to Boost Global Handicraft Trade

WCO Urges Streamlined Data to Boost Global Handicraft Trade

The World Customs Organization's 2000 recommendation aims to encourage member customs agencies to incorporate handicraft subheadings into their national statistical classifications, simplifying the collection and comparison of related trade data. By clarifying the definition of handicrafts, establishing certification regulations, and adding handicraft subheadings, the recommendation enhances the transparency and comparability of trade data. This provides policymakers and businesses with more accurate market information, thereby promoting the sustainable development of handicraft trade.

02/06/2026 HS Code Query
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Global Customs Body Tackles Trade Tech Gender Gaps Island Economies

Global Customs Body Tackles Trade Tech Gender Gaps Island Economies

The 221st/222nd meetings of the WCO Permanent Technical Committee focused on the development of Small Island Economies, Gender Equality, and the application of Technological Foresight. Discussions centered on customs procedures and trade facilitation. The meeting emphasized support for Small Island Economies, highlighted the advancement of women in information technology, and explored the application of technologies like blockchain in customs. The outcomes provide valuable insights and recommendations for the Policy Commission.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Businesses Brace for 2026 Trade Compliance Challenges

Businesses Brace for 2026 Trade Compliance Challenges

The biggest challenge for foreign trade companies in 2026 is compliance. Businesses must prioritize compliance in areas such as customs declarations, taxation, certifications, and capital flows to avoid supply chain disruptions and reputational damage caused by violations. Compliance is a fundamental prerequisite for business survival and development. Companies should immediately assess and strengthen their compliance management to mitigate risks and ensure long-term sustainability in the evolving global trade landscape.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Aidriven Ad Optimization Shifts Marketing Budgets

Aidriven Ad Optimization Shifts Marketing Budgets

AppsFlyer's report introduces the "Creative Index," revealing the emerging trend of AI-powered advertising. Companies need to restructure their organizations and deeply integrate AI into product development and teamwork to unlock its potential, improve advertising efficiency, and gain a competitive edge. Embracing AI is crucial for advertisers to achieve growth. The report highlights the importance of creative optimization driven by AI insights and how AppsFlyer's solutions can aid in this process.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO and OIE Partner to Boost Crossborder Trade Safety

WCO and OIE Partner to Boost Crossborder Trade Safety

The World Customs Organization and the World Organisation for Animal Health are strengthening cooperation to create a safer, more efficient, and equitable cross-border trade environment. This collaboration focuses on enhancing cooperation among border agencies, implementing trade facilitation agreements, coordinating risk management, and building capacity. The goal is to promote global economic development and bring multiple benefits to businesses, consumers, and governments by streamlining processes and reinforcing security measures at borders.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO JICA Team Up to Upgrade Customs Systems in Developing Countries

WCO JICA Team Up to Upgrade Customs Systems in Developing Countries

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in 2015. This collaboration aims to improve customs administration in developing countries and promote economic development through capacity building, customs modernization, and trade facilitation. Both parties will deepen cooperation, innovate approaches, and jointly address new global trade dynamics. The goal is to build a more open, inclusive, and mutually beneficial global trade landscape.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sudan Initiates Customs Study to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Sudan Initiates Customs Study to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Sudan Customs, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization, launched a National Time Release Study (TRS) in 2015 to improve customs clearance efficiency and optimize the trade environment. Through workshops, representatives analyzed Sudan's current customs clearance processes and developed a roadmap for action. The implementation of the TRS is expected to identify bottlenecks, streamline procedures, reduce operational costs for businesses, and enhance trade competitiveness, injecting new vitality into Sudan's economic development.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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