Mardafu, the managing director of Hutchison Port Holdings Group, stated that the group intends to invest in bulk terminal projects, marking a diversification in its business activities. Additionally, the group will strengthen its supply chain management and build distribution centers to enhance logistics efficiency. The demand for modernization in Chinese ports presents promising opportunities for future investments.
Dresden International Airport, located in Saxony, Germany, serves as a significant aviation hub connecting major cities to Europe and the Mediterranean region. Since it began operations in 1935, the airport has undergone continuous modernization and now handles over 1.5 million passengers annually. It offers a wide range of services to cater to travelers' needs, contributing to economic development.
The WCO assisted Jordan Customs in establishing an internal trainer team to enhance training capabilities. A competency-based approach was adopted to support customs modernization. Data analysis was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the training and optimize resource allocation. This initiative strengthens Jordan Customs' ability to deliver effective training programs and contribute to regional and international customs cooperation.
The WCO collaborates with WACAM to support the transformation of customs administrations in West Africa. With WCO's assistance, Gabon Customs is optimizing its human resources management, aiming to improve overall administrative efficiency. This partnership highlights the WCO's commitment to fostering capacity building and modernization within customs organizations globally, ultimately contributing to enhanced trade facilitation and security.
The government's focus on logistics hubs has enhanced the efficiency of logistics systems. As critical nodes, logistics hubs are essential for regional economic growth and competitiveness. Despite continuous improvements in infrastructure and service capabilities, issues such as high costs and unequal service persist. In the future, modernization and smart logistics will be further promoted through policies, technology, and market initiatives.
The new 'Regulations on Civil Aviation Cargo Transportation' will officially take effect on December 1, 2024. These regulations aim to ensure aviation transportation safety, improve service quality, clarify responsibilities, and maintain market order. All parties, including shippers and carriers, will carry significant responsibilities, while the introduction of electronic documents and a complaint mechanism will promote modernization and transparency in the industry.
The WCO's WACAM project assisted Cape Verde Customs in establishing a stakeholder engagement mechanism to enhance transparency, facilitate trade, combat smuggling, and achieve customs modernization. This initiative fostered collaboration and improved communication between customs authorities and various stakeholders, leading to more efficient and effective customs operations. The project's success highlights the importance of stakeholder involvement in driving customs reform and promoting economic growth.
The WCO assisted Bahrain in enhancing its Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) and Pre-Arrival Processing (PAP) capabilities to align with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Bahrain committed to applying the acquired knowledge and skills. The WCO will continue to support Bahrain's customs modernization efforts. This assistance aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs procedures, ultimately facilitating trade and economic growth for Bahrain.
With the support of the German Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a tariff classification workshop in North Macedonia. Focusing on dairy products, dietary supplements, and high-tech equipment, the workshop aimed to enhance the tariff classification skills of North Macedonian customs officers. This initiative seeks to facilitate international trade and promote customs modernization within the country.
The Chicago rail bypass project aims to alleviate congestion but faces STB scrutiny and opposition. Concerns are raised about its efficiency and economic benefits, highlighting the need for rail infrastructure modernization. The project's potential to improve logistics efficiency and address existing infrastructure challenges within the rail transport sector is being carefully evaluated. The outcome will likely influence future rail infrastructure development strategies.
