African Customs Officials Train at WCO As Trade Grows

African Customs Officials Train at WCO As Trade Grows

The World Customs Organization (WCO) hosted a study visit for customs experts from Portuguese-speaking African countries, aiming to enhance their application of the Harmonized System (HS) and promote regional trade development. The activities included participation in the HS Committee (HSC) meeting, meetings with representatives of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), and planned capacity-building workshops to strengthen tariff classification and customs cooperation. The visit focused on improving skills and fostering collaboration to facilitate trade and ensure accurate classification practices within the region.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Eswatini Launches Etariff Platform to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Eswatini Launches Etariff Platform to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Eswatini has launched an electronic tariff platform to enhance trade facilitation. A national workshop equipped tax officials with in-depth knowledge of the platform's functionalities, boosting their management capabilities. The platform boasts advantages such as information transparency, operational convenience, and data integration. It is projected to stimulate trade growth, attract foreign investment, and improve competitiveness. With its official launch imminent, Eswatini is poised to become a leader in trade facilitation within Africa. The platform is expected to streamline customs processes and reduce administrative burdens for businesses.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
US and China Cut Tariffs to Boost Ecommerce Trade

US and China Cut Tariffs to Boost Ecommerce Trade

The US and China released the 'Geneva Joint Statement on Economic and Trade', announcing significant mutual tariff reductions, bringing substantial benefits to cross-border e-commerce. Lower tariffs will reduce costs, enhance product competitiveness, and boost market confidence, creating new development opportunities for cross-border e-commerce sellers. Both sides will continue to uphold the concept of win-win cooperation and build a sustainable economic and trade relationship. This agreement is expected to foster increased trade volume and strengthen ties between the two nations.

01/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
LMI Report Soaring Logistics Costs Strain Supply Chains

LMI Report Soaring Logistics Costs Strain Supply Chains

The latest LMI report reveals continued expansion in the logistics industry, but rising costs and warehousing constraints present challenges. Inventory buildup is driving up costs, while transportation utilization is declining. Trade policy uncertainty further exacerbates the situation. Slower consumer spending and weakened business confidence are also noted. The report cautions for a prudent approach, emphasizing the importance of monitoring tariff policy trends. LMI aims to assist the industry in navigating these challenges. The increasing costs and warehousing pressure are significant factors affecting the industry's overall performance.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Kazakhstan Tightens Customs Rules to Improve Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Tightens Customs Rules to Improve Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Customs, with WCO support, held a HS Code workshop to improve tariff classification accuracy and consistency, promoting trade efficiency. The workshop covered the application of HS Code General Interpretative Rules, interpretation of Committee Decisions, adaptation to revisions, and the advance ruling system. This initiative aims to enhance the professional skills of customs officials and corporate compliance management, laying the foundation for the modernization of Kazakhstan Customs and the globalization of enterprises. The training is expected to improve trade facilitation and reduce discrepancies in customs declarations.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Freight Market Shifts Under Tariffs and Demand TD Cowenafs Index

Freight Market Shifts Under Tariffs and Demand TD Cowenafs Index

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index report indicates that tariff policies, declining consumer confidence, and changes in carrier pricing strategies are impacting the freight market. In trucking, front-loading of inventory is driving up rates, but increased short-haul shipments are lowering overall costs. For parcel, carriers are adjusting prices more frequently, and fuel surcharges are rising, but sales growth faces challenges. In LTL, pricing remains strong despite economic headwinds. The report highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing freight costs and volumes across different transportation modes.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Lovesac Shifts Sactionals Production to US Amid Tariffs

Lovesac Shifts Sactionals Production to US Amid Tariffs

Lovesac is reshaping its core Sactionals product line, aiming for US-based manufacturing to address tariff challenges and enhance supply chain resilience. The company plans to begin domestic production in the summer of 2026, mitigating cost pressures and boosting market competitiveness through supply chain diversification and optimized customer service. This move reflects the company's profound understanding of future development trends and a proactive approach to navigating the evolving global landscape. The shift to 'Made in USA' is a strategic decision to strengthen its position in the market.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Uschina Trade Tensions Ease Opening Business Opportunities

Uschina Trade Tensions Ease Opening Business Opportunities

The US Treasury Secretary signaled positive developments in US-China trade, hinting at potential further tariff reductions. This article delves into the US-China trade 'rebalancing' strategy and provides a detailed explanation of the 'three intercepts and four clearances' concept in cross-border trade. It offers practical guidance for businesses to navigate evolving trade policies, optimize customs clearance processes, and capitalize on opportunities in a complex and dynamic market environment. The analysis aims to empower businesses to adapt and thrive amidst ongoing trade uncertainties.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
US Tariffs Risk Making Christmas Most Expensive Ever

US Tariffs Risk Making Christmas Most Expensive Ever

Impacted by tariffs, the U.S. is experiencing its 'most expensive Christmas' with widespread price increases on holiday goods. Limited tariff relief and the inability of domestic manufacturing to fully absorb demand have led Chinese manufacturers to adjust their global strategies. This highlights the real-world impact of trade policies and the fragility of global supply chains, underscoring the importance of addressing the challenges of globalization. The price surge reflects the complex interplay between international trade, consumer spending, and the resilience of global production networks.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Dualfunction Chairs Gain Popularity in Global Furniture Market

Dualfunction Chairs Gain Popularity in Global Furniture Market

The product code 9401409000 refers to a dual-purpose chair that can serve as a bed, specifically classified under furniture items. It has an export tax rate of 0%, with export rebates as high as 13%, while the general import tax rate stands at 100%. This product demonstrates strong multi-functionality and promising market prospects.

08/05/2025 HS Code Query
Read More