Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits with Maldives Expertise

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits with Maldives Expertise

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, a delegation from Uzbekistan Customs visited the Maldives to study post-clearance audit. Through experience exchange and practical exercises, Uzbekistan learned about the Maldives' best practices in risk management and trader compliance. Adapting these practices to their own context, Uzbekistan developed reform plans to improve its national post-clearance audit system and promote trade facilitation. The visit focused on building capacity and understanding practical implementation of modern audit techniques for enhanced efficiency.

Trade War Uncertainty Tests SMB Supply Chain Resilience

Trade War Uncertainty Tests SMB Supply Chain Resilience

Research indicates that 45% of SMEs are concerned about inflation, and supply chain optimization faces challenges amidst trade friction. Companies should enhance transparency and resilience, leverage technology, and focus on critical elements like trucking, rail, and maritime transport. Proactive risk management and policy responses are also crucial for navigating uncertainty and fostering growth. SMEs need to adapt their supply chains to mitigate the impact of trade wars and inflationary pressures, ensuring business continuity and competitiveness in a volatile global market.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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Antigua and Barbuda Joins World Customs Organization

Antigua and Barbuda Joins World Customs Organization

Antigua and Barbuda officially joined the World Customs Organization (WCO) as its 182nd member. This strengthens the WCO's presence in the Americas/Caribbean region and injects new vitality into global customs cooperation. The WCO is dedicated to improving customs management efficiency through setting standards, providing assistance, and promoting cooperation. Its core mission is to facilitate trade and enhance security worldwide. Antigua and Barbuda's membership will contribute to these efforts and benefit from the WCO's expertise in international trade and customs procedures.

Uschina Trade War Threatens Tech Supply Chains

Uschina Trade War Threatens Tech Supply Chains

An Everstream Analytics report reveals the profound impact of US-China trade tensions on the global technology supply chain, presenting businesses with challenges such as supply chain disruptions and technology blockades. The report advises companies to diversify suppliers, adjust production bases, strengthen risk management, and build a self-controlled supply chain system to address uncertainty and enhance long-term competitiveness. These strategies are crucial for navigating the evolving geopolitical landscape and ensuring business resilience in the face of ongoing trade disputes.

Guatemala Boosts Trade Compliance with Customs Valuation Training

Guatemala Boosts Trade Compliance with Customs Valuation Training

The Guatemala National Workshop on Customs Valuation aims to improve customs valuation practices and promote trade compliance and efficiency. The workshop covers topics such as the interpretation of the WTO Valuation Agreement, Guatemalan customs regulations, practical valuation operations, risk management, and dispute resolution. Through knowledge sharing and capacity building, it helps Guatemala integrate into the global trading system. The workshop seeks to strengthen Guatemala's ability to accurately value goods, facilitate legitimate trade, and prevent revenue loss, contributing to its economic development.

Businesses Customs Collaborate to Strengthen Supply Chains

Businesses Customs Collaborate to Strengthen Supply Chains

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has adopted a resolution aimed at strengthening customs-business partnerships and enhancing global supply chain resilience. The resolution emphasizes strategic prioritization, innovative partnerships, digital transformation, data sharing, and capacity building. The WCO will support its implementation. Businesses can actively participate through AEO certification, enhanced communication, embracing digitalization, and strengthened risk management, collectively building a secure and efficient trade environment. This collaborative approach fosters greater trust and predictability within the international trade landscape, ultimately bolstering supply chain stability.

Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency With WCO Trade Program

Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency With WCO Trade Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Colombian Tax and Customs Administration (DIAN) are strengthening cooperation through the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP). This initiative aims to enhance Colombian Customs' capabilities in areas such as risk management and post-clearance audit. Funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), the project provides capacity building support to help Colombian Customs achieve its strategic objectives. Ultimately, it contributes to trade facilitation and economic development in Colombia by improving customs efficiency and effectiveness.

US Import Tariff Uncertainty Threatens Trade Stability

US Import Tariff Uncertainty Threatens Trade Stability

The 'Global Port Tracking Report' indicates a short-term surge in US import trade due to tariff reductions. However, a sharp decline is expected in the latter half of 2025 as these policies expire. The report forecasts import volumes for the coming months, highlighting the impact of trade policy uncertainty on supply chains. Retailers are actively preparing for back-to-school and holiday seasons, but remain concerned about future tariff policy directions. This uncertainty poses challenges for long-term planning and inventory management.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Customs Agencies Enhance Efficiency Via SECOWCO Partnership

Customs Agencies Enhance Efficiency Via SECOWCO Partnership

The SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) aims to improve customs and tax administration in developing countries. Through training courses and capacity building initiatives, the GTFP helps managers master the latest management concepts and techniques to promote trade facilitation and support economic development. The program has supported customs and tax officials in numerous countries to enhance their capabilities, contributing to a more open and prosperous international trading system. This includes providing resources and expertise to modernize procedures and improve efficiency.

US Retail Imports Slow Amid Trade Policy Uncertainty

US Retail Imports Slow Amid Trade Policy Uncertainty

US retail imports are projected to experience a short-term increase followed by a sustained decline, exacerbated by trade policy uncertainties. Businesses should embrace digital transformation, diversify sourcing channels, strengthen risk management, closely monitor policy developments, and enhance innovation capabilities to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. The volatile trade landscape necessitates proactive strategies to mitigate potential disruptions and maintain competitiveness. Focusing on agility and resilience within the supply chain will be crucial for sustained success in the evolving global market.

02/05/2026 Logistics
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