Aviation Groups Urge El Salvador to Drop Farm Tax Over Industry Risks

Aviation Groups Urge El Salvador to Drop Farm Tax Over Industry Risks

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Salvadoran Association of Airline Representatives (ASLA) are urging the government of El Salvador to reconsider the $3.50 agricultural tariff levied on arriving passengers. They argue that this measure increases travel costs during the pandemic and could hinder the recovery of the aviation industry. The two organizations suggest that the government collaborate with the industry to find better solutions that ensure plant health security while promoting economic development.

US Railroads Face Labor Disputes Supply Chain Risks

US Railroads Face Labor Disputes Supply Chain Risks

The US rail transport system faces a supply chain crisis stemming from labor rights issues. This analysis examines the challenges faced by rail workers under the Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) model, leading to declining service quality and supply chain disruptions. It highlights the necessity of improving labor rights and suggests enhanced collaboration between rail companies, unions, and the government to reshape rail transport. Addressing worker concerns is crucial for restoring efficiency and reliability within the rail network and mitigating its impact on the broader supply chain.

Tanzania Adopts WCO Program to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Tanzania Adopts WCO Program to Enhance Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) in implementing Post Clearance Audit (PCA) through a capacity building workshop. This initiative aimed to optimize the PCA framework, enhance risk identification and analysis capabilities, and promote trade facilitation. The activity was part of the Swedish government-funded Sida-WCO TFCM Programme, designed to assist Sub-Saharan African countries in improving customs efficiency and achieving sustainable development. The workshop provided valuable training and resources to TRA officials, fostering a more streamlined and effective customs process.

UK Logistics Sector Demands Role in National Strategy

UK Logistics Sector Demands Role in National Strategy

Thirty major UK businesses are urging the government to include logistics in the national Industrial Strategy, highlighting its importance to economic growth. The UK's logistics performance ranking has significantly declined due to road congestion, border delays, and underinvestment. Industry leaders are calling for long-term investment in transportation networks and the establishment of a logistics representative on the Industrial Strategy Council to improve national economic efficiency. This inclusion is deemed crucial for addressing current challenges and ensuring the UK's competitiveness in the global market.

Rwanda Promotes Public Participation in Governance Reform

Rwanda Promotes Public Participation in Governance Reform

Rwanda is committed to building an open and transparent decision-making system, ensuring public participation in law-making and policy implementation through laws and frameworks. This aims to build trust between the government and the public, improve policy execution efficiency, and ultimately empower the public to create a better future. Rwanda's experience provides valuable lessons for other countries. This approach emphasizes citizen engagement and accountability, fostering a more inclusive and responsive governance model. The focus is on creating a system where public input directly shapes policy outcomes.

St Lucia Customs CCLEC Enhance Trade Ties in Caribbean

St Lucia Customs CCLEC Enhance Trade Ties in Caribbean

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization visited Saint Lucia, meeting with Saint Lucia Customs, the Caribbean Customs Law Enforcement Council (CCLEC), and government officials. Discussions focused on the trade challenges and opportunities facing small island economies in the Caribbean region. The visit emphasized the importance of customs reform and regional cooperation. The Secretary General also conducted field visits to observe customs operations, with the aim of promoting regional trade facilitation and security. The overall goal is to enhance trade efficiency and security within the Caribbean.

Dominican Republic and IATA Clash Over Tourism Fee Collection

Dominican Republic and IATA Clash Over Tourism Fee Collection

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urges the Dominican Republic government to reassess its tourist card fee policy. The current system's inability to differentiate passenger nationality and residency hinders airlines from implementing exemptions. IATA proposes an online portal system, allowing travelers to prepay and clarify exemption eligibility. This would streamline the process, enhance efficiency, and ultimately promote tourism. The existing system creates confusion and operational difficulties for airlines trying to comply with the exemption rules. A modernized approach is needed for a smoother and fairer travel experience.

Guatemalas Cargo Airport Plan Draws IATA Warning

Guatemalas Cargo Airport Plan Draws IATA Warning

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urges the Guatemalan government to reconsider its plan to build a new cargo airport. IATA suggests prioritizing the upgrade of existing airports and collaborating with the aviation industry to develop a more strategic development plan. IATA believes a new airport could increase costs and reduce efficiency. Upgrading existing facilities would be more beneficial for the sustainable development of Guatemala's aviation industry. They emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach to ensure the long-term viability and competitiveness of the sector.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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WCO Backs Digital Trade Reform at Ghana Conference

WCO Backs Digital Trade Reform at Ghana Conference

The Ghana Single Window conference highlighted trade facilitation, digitalization, and international cooperation. Government commitment, private sector involvement, and data-driven approaches were emphasized as key elements for success. The conference underscored Ghana's dedication to streamlining trade processes and enhancing its competitiveness in the global market through the Single Window system. Discussions focused on optimizing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving transparency within the trade ecosystem. The collaborative effort between public and private stakeholders is crucial for achieving the full potential of the Single Window initiative.

Mali Customs Boosts Training with WCO Support for Staff Efficiency

Mali Customs Boosts Training with WCO Support for Staff Efficiency

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Mali Customs developed a Human Resource Management Strategy for 2018-2021. This strategy aims to enhance employee skills, improve work efficiency, and strengthen organizational cohesion through tools like competency models, ultimately achieving the overall mission of customs. The success of Mali Customs has attracted significant attention from the Ministry of Finance and is expected to be promoted to other government departments. The focus is on building a capable and motivated workforce to drive customs modernization and improve overall performance.