GAO to Review Controversial Trucking Hour Rule Changes

GAO to Review Controversial Trucking Hour Rule Changes

The House Transportation Committee has called for a GAO review of the new hours-of-service (HOS) regulations for truck drivers, questioning its data foundation and impact on the industry. The 34-hour restart provision is a key point of contention, sparking intense debate regarding safety, efficiency, and economic consequences. Concerns have been raised about the rule's potential to negatively affect driver productivity and the overall supply chain. The GAO review aims to provide an independent assessment of the rule's effectiveness and potential unintended consequences, informing future policy decisions related to truck driver HOS.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Turkmenistan Seeks Trade Growth Via Harmonized System Pact

Turkmenistan Seeks Trade Growth Via Harmonized System Pact

This paper analyzes the background, benefits, and challenges of Turkmenistan's accession to the Harmonized System Convention. By reviewing the technical assistance provided by the World Customs Organization, it explores the positive impact of joining the Convention on enhancing trade facilitation and strengthening international competitiveness. The article recommends that Turkmenistan develop a detailed implementation plan, strengthen customs personnel training, conduct corporate publicity, and seek international cooperation to smoothly join and benefit from the Convention. It emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to maximize the advantages offered by the HS Convention for Turkmenistan's trade development.

WCO and Japan Boost Trade Compliance with Lab Upgrades

WCO and Japan Boost Trade Compliance with Lab Upgrades

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the "Customs Laboratory Regional Programme" to enhance the chemical analysis capabilities and HS code classification skills of its member customs administrations. Supported by Japan Customs, the program targets customs laboratory analysts and future professionals, offering training in cutting-edge technologies, laboratory management optimization, tariff classification mastery, and understanding of the WCO system. It aims to empower participants to improve their professional competence and promote global trade compliance. The program focuses on practical skills and knowledge transfer to improve efficiency and accuracy in customs operations.

Global Gypsum Powder Exports Rise Amid Regulatory Challenges

Global Gypsum Powder Exports Rise Amid Regulatory Challenges

This paper delves into the multi-field applications of gypsum powder and its export prospects in 2026. It highlights the importance of gypsum powder in construction, crafts, medicine, agriculture, and other fields. For export enterprises, it offers key suggestions such as compliant declaration, clear HS code identification, and expansion of high-quality buyers. The aim is to help companies seize market opportunities and avoid trade risks. This analysis provides valuable insights for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of gypsum powder export and maximize their potential in the global market.

New Zealand Aims to Streamline Trade with Clearer Customs Rules

New Zealand Aims to Streamline Trade with Clearer Customs Rules

New Zealand submitted a proposal to the WTO aimed at promoting objectivity and transparency in tariff classification, avoiding arbitrary classifications and hidden trade restrictions. The proposal emphasizes classification based on the Harmonized System (HS) and focuses on the capacity-building needs of developing countries, suggesting the establishment of a horizontal mechanism to address their specific issues. This proposal is of great significance for promoting fair trade and global economic development. It seeks to ensure consistent and predictable application of tariff classifications, fostering a more transparent and equitable global trading environment.

New Zealand Calls for Transparent Tariff Rules to Facilitate Trade

New Zealand Calls for Transparent Tariff Rules to Facilitate Trade

New Zealand submitted a proposal to the WTO advocating for an objective and transparent tariff classification system. The proposal calls for avoiding arbitrary and unfair classifications and suggests the unified application of the HS coding system. It emphasizes special and differential treatment for developing countries, along with the importance of technical assistance and capacity building. The proposal aims to promote global trade facilitation by ensuring predictable and equitable tariff classifications, thereby reducing trade barriers and fostering a more efficient international trading environment. This contributes to smoother cross-border trade and economic growth.

Guide to Classifying Footwear and Accessories for Customs

Guide to Classifying Footwear and Accessories for Customs

This article provides an in-depth interpretation of the latest regulations on the classification of footwear and its accessories in customs commodity classification. It details the general rules, important notes, subheading notes, and classification practices for various types of footwear. Through case studies and risk warnings, it helps enterprises accurately grasp commodity classification, avoid trade risks, and facilitate smooth trade. It covers key aspects of footwear classification under the Harmonized System, enabling businesses to correctly classify their products and comply with customs regulations.

Chinas AI Academy Names Top 2025 Research Committees

Chinas AI Academy Names Top 2025 Research Committees

The Chinese Association for Artificial Intelligence (CAAI) announced the list of Excellent Technical Committees for 2025, with 11 committees honored. These committees cover cutting-edge fields such as granular computing, machine learning, and metaverse technologies. This recognition showcases the innovative vitality of China's AI academic community and points the way for future development in the field. They serve as AI trendsetters, guiding research and application in key areas of artificial intelligence.

Mastering Customs Declarations to Prevent Cargo Delays

Mastering Customs Declarations to Prevent Cargo Delays

This article provides a clear and concise introduction to the concept of customs declaration elements, covering the three main categories (classification elements, price elements, and document review & other elements) and their importance. It uses thorium ore as an example to explain the filling specifications of declaration elements in detail. The aim is to help readers accurately understand and fill in declaration elements, thereby avoiding customs clearance delays caused by declaration errors. This guide provides practical insights for navigating the complexities of customs declaration.

WCO Eswatini Launch Customs Capacity Pilot Program

WCO Eswatini Launch Customs Capacity Pilot Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Eswatini Revenue Authority (ERA), launched a capacity building assessment pilot project. This initiative aims to enhance training quality and effectiveness, facilitate knowledge transfer, and strengthen customs capacity building through a systematic five-level evaluation model. The project's findings will be shared with WCO members, contributing to the security and facilitation of global trade. The assessment framework will provide valuable insights for optimizing training programs and ensuring sustainable capacity development within customs administrations.