US Import Decline Signals Potential Consumer Demand Slowdown

US Import Decline Signals Potential Consumer Demand Slowdown

S&P Global Market Intelligence reports that US imports declined for the 13th consecutive month in August. Weak consumer demand, poor performance in industrial goods, and retailers continuing to reduce inventories suggest a challenging fourth quarter. Experts highlight persistent weakness in consumer goods, including non-seasonal items, painting a concerning picture of the overall economic situation. The continued decline in imports, coupled with sluggish consumer spending, raises concerns about a potential economic slowdown in the US.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Digital Transformation Strengthens Supply Chain Resilience

Digital Transformation Strengthens Supply Chain Resilience

Facing ongoing supply chain challenges, companies need to build resilient supply chains through digital transformation. Digital transformation enhances supply chain visibility and agility, integrates risk management into every stage, and optimizes resource allocation through automated processes. This ultimately leads to accelerated efficiency and increased effectiveness, enabling businesses to gain a competitive edge amidst uncertainty. By embracing digital solutions, organizations can proactively mitigate disruptions and ensure business continuity in a dynamic and unpredictable global landscape, improving overall supply chain performance.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ceos Adapt to Tariff Shifts Amid Trade Policy Changes

Ceos Adapt to Tariff Shifts Amid Trade Policy Changes

Facing persistent and volatile tariff policies, 18 business executives shared their coping strategies, including absorbing costs internally, cautiously passing costs on, reshaping supply chains, and diversifying markets. Companies are actively adjusting their strategies to strive for stable development amidst uncertainty. These adjustments aim to mitigate the impact of fluctuating tariffs and ensure business continuity in a dynamic global trade environment. The focus is on building resilience and adaptability to navigate the challenges posed by evolving trade regulations.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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World Customs Organization Advocates Gender Equality for Sustainability

World Customs Organization Advocates Gender Equality for Sustainability

On International Women's Day, the World Customs Organization launched the Gender Equality and Diversity Network to promote sustainable development in global trade. Through thematic discussions, experience sharing, and policy advocacy, the WCO is committed to eliminating gender barriers and encouraging member administrations to adopt more inclusive measures. The network also aims to leverage technology to address gender inequality challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. Ultimately, the WCO strives for a more equitable and diverse customs environment worldwide.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Blockchain Platform CADENA Boosts Latin America Trade Efficiency

Blockchain Platform CADENA Boosts Latin America Trade Efficiency

The CADENA project leverages blockchain technology to build a cross-border trade data exchange platform in Latin America, connecting 8 countries and covering 14 mutual recognition agreements. Project experience highlights key success factors: co-creation design, proof of concept, selecting appropriate blockchain infrastructure, embracing open source, standardization, and iterative testing. This project offers valuable lessons for global blockchain-enabled trade facilitation initiatives, demonstrating the potential of distributed ledger technology to streamline processes and enhance transparency in international trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Revised Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade Facilitation Postreview

Revised Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade Facilitation Postreview

The 30th session of the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) Management Committee focused on reviewing specific annexes aimed at simplifying customs procedures, reducing trade costs, improving clearance efficiency, and promoting international trade growth. The meeting decided to extend the review period until December 2023 to refine the RKC guidelines and draft annexes. This extension aims to create a more convenient and efficient future for global trade by ensuring the RKC remains a relevant and effective tool for trade facilitation worldwide.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Intensifies Asiapacific Crackdown on Illegal Plastic Waste

WCO Intensifies Asiapacific Crackdown on Illegal Plastic Waste

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is strengthening control over the illegal trade of plastic waste in the Asia-Pacific region through virtual diagnostic missions to customs administrations in Indonesia and the Philippines. This project aims to help countries effectively implement the Basel Convention amendment through strategic guidance, operational optimization, and capacity building. By enhancing customs capabilities, the initiative supports the participating nations in addressing the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste and contributes to global environmental protection efforts.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Customs Names Sangho Director to Lead Modernization

West Africa Customs Names Sangho Director to Lead Modernization

Abdel Kader SANGHO has been appointed as the new Director for the West and Central Africa Customs region. This appointment aims to strengthen regional customs modernization, enhance risk management capabilities, and promote regional trade facilitation. The goal is to deepen international cooperation to address global trade challenges and foster regional economic prosperity and sustainable development. The meeting also confirmed the Regional Finance and Audit Committee, launched the annual budget, and announced the theme for International Customs Day 2021.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Eswatini Enhances Customs AEO Program to Boost Economy

Eswatini Enhances Customs AEO Program to Boost Economy

Eswatini Customs is upgrading its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to enhance trade security and efficiency, fostering economic growth. With the support of the WCO, through workshops, technical assistance, and inter-agency cooperation, Eswatini Customs is committed to creating a more efficient and accessible trade environment. This initiative aims to attract investment and integrate the country further into the global economy. The upgraded AEO program is a key component of their modernization efforts, streamlining processes and improving compliance.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Morocco Adopts AI for Customs Risk Management with SECO WCO Support

Morocco Adopts AI for Customs Risk Management with SECO WCO Support

The second phase of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme has been launched in Morocco, aiming to enhance the risk management capabilities of Moroccan Customs through the introduction of AI and ML technologies. The project encompasses technical assistance, capacity building, and strategic planning, with the goal of building a smarter, more efficient customs system that promotes trade facilitation and economic development. The WCO will continue to provide support, assisting Morocco in achieving customs intelligence upgrades.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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