WCO Explores Global Trade Facilitation Efforts

WCO Explores Global Trade Facilitation Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Secretariat is a key player in global trade, responsible for strategic planning, technical support, capacity building, and international standard setting. Composed of the Policy and Standards Directorate and the Implementation and Capacity Building Directorate, the Secretariat enhances global trade efficiency by simplifying customs procedures, promoting information technology applications, and strengthening international cooperation. It contributes to building a more open, inclusive, and sustainable global trading system. Its work is vital for facilitating legitimate trade and ensuring a secure and predictable international trade environment.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Trucking Rates to Rise As ELD Mandate Nears Shippers Warned

Trucking Rates to Rise As ELD Mandate Nears Shippers Warned

The upcoming ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate is poised to impact trucking freight rates. This analysis examines the effects of the ELD mandate on the trucking capacity market and how shippers can navigate potential freight rate increases and capacity shortages. It emphasizes the importance of shippers strengthening relationships with carriers and brokers, optimizing supply chains, planning ahead, and considering technology to improve transportation efficiency. By proactively addressing these challenges, shippers can mitigate the negative consequences of the ELD mandate and maintain a competitive edge.

01/01/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Truckload Spot Rates Hit Multiyear Highs Amid Hurricane Season Ecommerce Surge

US Truckload Spot Rates Hit Multiyear Highs Amid Hurricane Season Ecommerce Surge

A DAT report reveals that North American freight spot rates have surged to multi-year highs due to various factors. The confluence of challenges, including hurricane disasters, the ELD mandate, and the e-commerce peak season, is expected to maintain tight capacity through the end of the year. The close connection between e-commerce and the spot market is also increasingly evident. High demand driven by online retail is contributing significantly to the upward pressure on freight rates and the overall capacity crunch in the trucking industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Central American Customs Boost Disaster Readiness with WCO Aid

Central American Customs Boost Disaster Readiness with WCO Aid

Members of the Central American Customs Council recently held an online seminar to enhance their capacity to handle relief supplies during natural disasters and other emergencies. The meeting reviewed current regulations, proposed strategic recommendations, and emphasized process digitalization and capacity building. They plan to develop a roadmap at the December meeting to build a more efficient regional disaster response system. The focus is on streamlining customs procedures to ensure rapid delivery of essential aid during crises, fostering greater cooperation and preparedness among member states.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Trucking Industry Gains Market Share Amid Economic Challenges

Trucking Industry Gains Market Share Amid Economic Challenges

The American Trucking Associations reports a continued growth in trucking's share of the freight market, accounting for 69.1% of tonnage and 81.2% of revenue in 2013. The report highlights challenges and opportunities facing the trucking industry, including regulatory pressures, adverse weather conditions, and capacity constraints. It emphasizes how companies can seize opportunities and achieve growth by optimizing their supply chains, flexibly managing capacity, and investing in technological innovation. These strategies are crucial for navigating the evolving landscape and ensuring continued success in the competitive freight market.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucker English Rule Raises Freight Costs

US Trucker English Rule Raises Freight Costs

The US government's enhanced English proficiency regulations for truck drivers aim to improve road safety but have a limited overall impact on the freight market. Nationally, the proportion of drivers suspended due to insufficient English is small, resulting in minimal capacity impact. Localized capacity constraints may emerge in regions like Texas and the Mexican border. The long-term effects require further observation, and companies should monitor policy changes and adjust strategies accordingly. The new regulations are not expected to significantly disrupt the national freight market.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Workshop Enhances Panama Customs Valuation Practices

WCO Workshop Enhances Panama Customs Valuation Practices

With the support of the China Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a virtual workshop on customs valuation for Panama Customs, aiming to enhance its capacity to implement the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation. The workshop covered key concepts, latest developments, and post-clearance audit applications of the Agreement. Through a combination of theory and practice, it improved participants' skills in document review, customs clearance, and risk management. The WCO will continue to deepen cooperation to support global customs capacity building and promote trade prosperity.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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