"gatt 1994"

WTO Explores Streamlining Trade Under GATT Rules

This paper analyzes several measures proposed by the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu to improve the implementation of GATT Articles VIII and X, including advance clearance, risk management, express clearance, advance tariff classification rulings, and single window services. Combining international practices and expert opinions, it assesses the feasibility and potential impact of these measures. The study offers further recommendations aimed at promoting trade facilitation, enhancing customs efficiency, and reducing operational costs for businesses. The goal is to streamline processes and improve overall trade competitiveness.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge

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Canada Pushes to Reform GATT Air Transit Rules

Canada raised concerns regarding the WTO's transit provisions for aircraft, suggesting a footnote to clarify its non-applicability. This proposal aims to safeguard fair competition in air transport and promote trade facilitation. Canada believes the current interpretation could lead to unfair advantages and hinder the efficiency of air cargo and passenger transit. The proposed amendment seeks to ensure a level playing field for all airlines and maintain the principles of open and efficient trade as envisioned by the WTO.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge

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WTO Urges Streamlined Trade Procedures Under GATT Article VIII

This paper delves into enhancing global trade efficiency, focusing on the practical implementation strategies of GATT Article VIII. It proposes recommendations such as universal commitments, simplified data and documentation requirements, and optimized customs procedures. The aim is to reduce trade costs and promote the healthy development of global trade. The study emphasizes the importance of special and differential treatment for developing countries, as well as the provision of technical assistance, to ensure equitable participation in the global trading system.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge

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Strategic Hub of East Asian Shipping A Deep Dive into Wakamatsu Port

Wakamatsu Port, located in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a major shipping hub in Asia, renowned for its advantageous geographical position and well-developed facilities. In 1994, the port handled a container throughput of 370,000 TEU, primarily facilitating trade from countries across Asia. It plays a crucial role in the logistics and economic growth of western Japan.

07/24/2025 Port Encyclopedia

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Hong Kong China and Switzerland Push Trade Efficiency Reforms

The joint proposal by Hong Kong, China, and Switzerland aims to simplify import and export procedures, reduce documentary requirements, improve customs clearance efficiency, lower business costs, and promote trade growth. The proposal emphasizes minimizing procedural complexity, seeking alternative solutions, enhancing efficiency, conducting regular reviews, and abolishing unnecessary measures. It also focuses on the needs of developing and least developed countries through technical assistance and capacity building, jointly building a more open and efficient global trading system.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge

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New Zealand Pushes WTO Trade Reforms for Transparency

New Zealand submitted a proposal to the WTO to revise GATT Articles VIII and X. The proposal aims to reduce unnecessary trade barriers and lower trade costs by enhancing trade transparency, standardizing customs classification, and streamlining procedures. This initiative seeks to create a more equitable and efficient environment for global trade. The proposed revisions focus on measures that facilitate smoother cross-border transactions and promote predictability in international trade practices, ultimately contributing to increased trade flows and economic growth.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge

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Logistics Model and Development Analysis of Shenzhen Yantian Port

Since its opening in 1994, Shenzhen Yantian Port has rapidly developed into a significant international deep-water transshipment port in China. The logistics development of the port must meet the multifunctional requirements of a main hub port, particularly focusing on international logistics. By gradually integrating resources, regulating market behavior, and establishing an efficient port supply chain system, Yantian Port aims to enhance its service capacity and market competitiveness to achieve its developmental goals.

07/21/2025 Logistics

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WTO Talks Push for Streamlined Global Trade Rules

This paper provides an in-depth interpretation of the 2009 WTO Trade Facilitation Negotiation meeting minutes, analyzing the bargaining and consensus on GATT-related articles and issues such as special and differential treatment. It aims to reveal the significant impact of streamlining trade procedures on global economic growth and explore the opportunities and challenges China faces in the wave of trade facilitation. The paper emphasizes that global cooperation is crucial for achieving trade facilitation and realizing its full potential for boosting international commerce.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge

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Al Ain Airport Emerges As Key UAE Aviation Hub

Al Ain International Airport, located northwest of Al Ain city in the United Arab Emirates, commenced operations in 1994 and is managed by Abu Dhabi Airports Company. The airport offers international routes, partnering with several airlines to facilitate approximately 14 weekly flights. With an annual passenger traffic of around 4,000, it serves as an important aviation hub in the UAE. While passenger volume is currently modest, the airport plays a significant role in connecting Al Ain to the world.

09/26/2025 Airport Codes

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Report Exposes Hidden Fees in Global Trade

This paper explores the issue of opaque fees in international trade, analyzing the limitations of GATT Article VIII. It proposes methods such as cost breakdown and establishing cost analysis tables to more scientifically evaluate service costs, using the "Special Goods Inspection Fee" as an example. The paper argues that these methods can improve transparency and ensure fees are reasonable and non-discriminatory. It calls for strengthened cooperation among all parties to jointly promote trade facilitation by addressing hidden costs and establishing clear fee structures.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge

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