The World Customs Organization (WCO) promotes the safe and efficient circulation of goods and enhances international trade facilitation by establishing unified policies. Its core initiatives include the WCO SAFE Framework, the Revised Kyoto Convention, and data models, effectively coordinating collaboration between customs and other government agencies to create a favorable environment for legitimate trade.
Since 2016, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) has introduced the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) regulations, requiring shippers to provide VGM information before loading containers. This ensures the safety and compliance of container transportation. Neglecting this requirement may result in containers being unable to be loaded onto ships, impacting the transport of goods.
Recently, customs reports indicate a significant increase in non-compliance issues related to wood packaging in our country. Packaging that lacks the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) mark or is found to contain live harmful organisms may lead to goods being rejected and incurring high costs. Companies must strictly adhere to wood packaging quarantine standards to avoid economic losses.
China's modern railway logistics system is rapidly advancing to reduce overall logistics costs and support the development of the real economy. With the 'Single Document' model of the Iron-Sea Express, companies can simplify logistics connections and increase transportation efficiency by 40%. To date, 165 railway logistics bases have been established, with 340 direct express freight routes in operation and 186 logistics bundle projects underway. Future efforts will focus on enhancing key regional infrastructures to improve competitive transport markets and promote high-quality economic growth.
The Hague Protocol, as a significant amendment to the Warsaw Convention of 1955, clarified the regulations governing international air transport. It established clearer standards for passenger tickets, baggage tickets, and cargo transportation, holding carriers accountable for errors in information provided by shippers. This marked a modernization of the air transport industry and strengthened the protection of the rights of all parties involved in transportation.
The State Council recently issued guidance outlining four key tasks for building a modern commerce and trade system: enhancing supply chain efficiency, developing digital commerce, strengthening cold chain logistics infrastructure, and promoting the greening of distribution tools. These measures aim to drive high-quality economic development.
Switzerland, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), has launched the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) to enhance the efficiency of Ukrainian Customs and improve the business environment. Based on the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement and the WCO's Revised Kyoto Convention, the project provides technical assistance, capacity building, and resource support to help Ukraine achieve trade facilitation. This initiative aims to reduce costs for businesses, enhance competitiveness, promote foreign investment, and ultimately benefit consumers.
The Asia-Pacific region faces a significant challenge from the illegal trade of plastic waste. The Asia Pacific Plastic Waste (APPW) project, initiated by the World Customs Organization, aims to strengthen customs' response capabilities, mitigate the threat of illegal shipments, and promote the Basel Convention amendment. Through Coordinated Border Management (CBM) and international cooperation, the project seeks to effectively control and facilitate plastic waste trade, collectively building a future without 'plastic enclaves'.
Container overweight is a common risk in international trade. This paper analyzes container weight limits, overweight risks, and mitigation strategies from a data analysis perspective, and interprets the requirements of the SOLAS Convention. By accurately assessing cargo weight, optimizing loading plans, and strengthening communication and collaboration, companies can effectively avoid overweight risks, reduce logistics costs, and ensure transportation safety. The paper emphasizes the importance of understanding and adhering to regulations for compliant and safe container shipping.
Container overweight is a common risk in international trade. This paper analyzes the structural, operational, shipping, and regulatory risks associated with overweight containers, and provides strategies such as pre-booking assessment, selecting appropriate container types, and negotiating overweight solutions. It also details the impact of the SOLAS Convention on the supply chain, emphasizing the responsibilities of shippers, carriers, and terminal operators. The aim is to help companies effectively manage overweight risks and ensure safe and compliant cargo transportation.
