WCO JICA Boost Customs Revenue in Pacific Islands

WCO JICA Boost Customs Revenue in Pacific Islands

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), launched the Pacific Islands Customs "Professional Mentoring Framework" (PMF) to enhance customs modernization in the region. A preparatory meeting identified customs valuation and commodity classification as priority areas. The project's success hinges on accurate needs assessments, practical training content, diverse training methods, scientific impact evaluation, and ensuring sustainability. The PMF aims to build capacity and improve tax administration through effective mentorship and targeted training programs.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Sellers Face Rising Shipping Costs During Peak Season

Ecommerce Sellers Face Rising Shipping Costs During Peak Season

This paper analyzes the impact of container freight rate volatility on specific routes from late 2023 to early 2024 on e-commerce logistics. Fluctuating freight rates challenge companies' cost control, requiring optimized inventory management, diversified transportation methods, and strengthened collaboration. Geopolitical factors and climate change exacerbate uncertainty, urging businesses to establish risk warning mechanisms and embrace digital transformation. Proactive measures are crucial for navigating these challenges and maintaining supply chain resilience in the face of unpredictable market conditions.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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3PL Industry Adapts to Digital Shift and Green Logistics

3PL Industry Adapts to Digital Shift and Green Logistics

The 2020 Third-Party Logistics research report highlights digital transformation, supply chain finance, and green logistics as crucial for enhancing 3PL competitiveness. Companies should strengthen collaboration with 3PLs, invest in technology, embrace disruptive technologies, improve supply chain finance management, and implement green logistics strategies. These efforts will optimize supply chains, reduce costs, improve service levels, and achieve sustainable growth. Focusing on these areas allows businesses to leverage 3PL expertise for greater efficiency and resilience in a rapidly evolving market.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Carloads Flat Intermodal Gains

US Rail Freight Carloads Flat Intermodal Gains

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased slightly by 0.002% in the first week of October, while intermodal volume rose by 6.7% year-over-year. Year-to-date, carloads are up 2.1% and intermodal volume is up 3.6%. The report reveals market adjustments to changing conditions and highlights the need for the rail industry to seize opportunities amidst challenges. Innovation, technology, and collaboration are crucial for achieving sustainable development in the railway sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Defies Economic Slowdown

North American Rail Freight Defies Economic Slowdown

Recent data shows year-over-year growth in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes. Performance varies across market segments, with intermodal demonstrating strong growth. Businesses should monitor market changes, diversify transportation modes, strengthen supply chain collaboration, embrace digital technologies, and focus on sustainable development to optimize their freight strategies. The intermodal sector's robust performance suggests a shift towards more integrated and efficient transportation solutions. Adapting to these trends is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the evolving freight landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Volume Falls in July Recovery Expected

North American Intermodal Volume Falls in July Recovery Expected

According to the Intermodal Association of North America, intermodal volumes in July decreased by 9.8% year-over-year, with a cumulative decrease of 9.6% for the year. Key factors include economic downturn, high inventory levels, and reduced consumer demand. The association anticipates a potential recovery in the second half of the year. Businesses should focus on monitoring the economic situation, optimizing operations, expanding services, strengthening technological innovation, and deepening collaboration to address challenges and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Guatemala Adopts WCO Standards to Enhance Trade with Swiss Aid

Guatemala Adopts WCO Standards to Enhance Trade with Swiss Aid

The Global Trade Facilitation Programme, a collaboration between the World Customs Organization and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, will provide technical assistance to Guatemalan Customs to facilitate its accession to the Revised Kyoto Convention. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of Guatemalan Customs, reduce trade costs, enhance trade transparency, and ultimately boost its international competitiveness, fostering economic development. This support is crucial for Guatemala to streamline its customs procedures and align with international best practices.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Beijing Declaration Signals Global Ecommerce Shift

Beijing Declaration Signals Global Ecommerce Shift

The 2018 Global Cross-border E-commerce Conference's 'Beijing Declaration' provides a roadmap for global cross-border e-commerce development, emphasizing embracing opportunities, win-win cooperation, innovation-driven growth, and inclusive development. By promoting trade facilitation, optimizing tax administration, and ensuring security, it aims to build an open and sustainable cross-border e-commerce ecosystem, fostering global trade development. The declaration highlights the importance of collaboration and innovation in navigating the evolving landscape of international online commerce.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zambia Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked AEO Program

Zambia Boosts Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked AEO Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) in establishing an internationally compliant Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. This initiative aims to enhance trade facilitation, strengthen supply chain security, and ultimately achieve mutual recognition agreements with neighboring countries, promoting regional trade development. The support involves capacity building and study visits. This collaboration is part of the UK's HMRC's 'Accelerating Trade Facilitation' program, designed to assist Zambia in meeting international standards and improving its overall trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Leads Push for Sustainable Supply Chain Revival

WCO Leads Push for Sustainable Supply Chain Revival

The World Customs Organization (WCO) announced its 2021 theme as "Customs bolstering Recovery, Renewal and Resilience," highlighting the crucial role of customs in the sustainable recovery of global supply chains. Through digital transformation, strengthened international cooperation, and enhanced personnel capabilities, customs administrations can better address future challenges and ensure the smooth and secure flow of global trade. This includes adapting to new technologies and fostering collaboration to build more resilient and adaptable supply chains in the face of disruptions.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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