US Service Sector Shrinks Unexpectedly Ending 10month Growth Streak

US Service Sector Shrinks Unexpectedly Ending 10month Growth Streak

The US Services PMI unexpectedly fell below 50 in May, ending ten consecutive months of growth. A significant decline in new orders was primarily driven by trade friction and uncertainty. Sector performance was mixed, with slight employment growth. The future development of the service sector needs to address challenges related to trade, inflation, demand, and supply chains, while also seizing opportunities in technological innovation and consumption upgrades. The unexpected contraction raises concerns about a potential economic slowdown and the impact of ongoing trade tensions on the service sector's performance.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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DRC Zambia Launch Tradeboosting Customs Link

DRC Zambia Launch Tradeboosting Customs Link

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia are collaborating on a customs systems interconnectivity project at the Kasumbalesa border post to enhance cross-border trade efficiency. Supported by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), the project has established a steering committee and developed a work plan. Data exchange is expected to commence in May 2025, significantly reducing trade costs and promoting regional integration. This initiative underscores the commitment of both nations to streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth through enhanced customs cooperation.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Train-the-Trainer workshop in Kenya, focusing on the Basel and Montreal Conventions. Through capacity building, the WCO aims to assist national customs administrations in improving compliance, combating illegal trade, and protecting the environment. The Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization (TFCM) Programme provides technical assistance to relevant customs agencies to address trade-related environmental issues and promote sustainable development. This initiative empowers customs officers to effectively enforce environmental regulations and contribute to global environmental protection efforts.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Considers New Shipping Rules to Counter Chinas Maritime Power

US Considers New Shipping Rules to Counter Chinas Maritime Power

The U.S. Trade Representative's Office has initiated a Section 301 investigation into China's maritime industry, proposing revisions to billing practices and LNG export permits. These new regulations aim to counter China's dominance in maritime transport but could increase costs for U.S. businesses and disrupt global trade. Companies need to diversify suppliers, optimize transportation routes, strengthen contract management, and closely monitor policy developments to address supply chain challenges. The investigation and potential new rules highlight the ongoing tensions in US-China trade and the need for businesses to adapt to a changing global landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AI and Social Media Drive Export Growth Strategies

AI and Social Media Drive Export Growth Strategies

This article analyzes three archetypes of viral content on overseas social media, revealing the shift in content logic from product-oriented to user-oriented. It provides a replicable AI-powered social media content creation process and introduces how Ezzhou GPM-AI Intelligent Marketing helps foreign trade companies achieve precise customer acquisition and performance growth. Embracing AI and creating high-quality content are key for foreign trade companies to win in the future. It offers practical insights and actionable strategies for leveraging AI to enhance social media marketing efforts and drive foreign trade growth.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahrain Customs Adopts Wcobacked Smart Clearance System

Bahrain Customs Adopts Wcobacked Smart Clearance System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Bahrain Customs to enhance its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities and develop its advance declaration processing system to meet the requirements of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Through a workshop held in Manama, Bahrain Customs officials gained a deeper understanding of PCA concepts and the value of advance declaration processing. They committed to applying their knowledge in practice, and the WCO will continue to provide support for these efforts. This initiative aims to improve customs efficiency and facilitate trade.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guatemala Customs Boosts Leadership for Modernization Efforts

Guatemala Customs Boosts Leadership for Modernization Efforts

Guatemalan Customs, with the support of SECO-WCO, held a leadership workshop to enhance the capabilities of its managers. This initiative aims to promote customs modernization and further facilitate trade. The workshop focused on developing leadership skills necessary for effective management and driving strategic improvements within the customs administration. By investing in its leadership, Guatemalan Customs seeks to streamline processes, reduce trade barriers, and ultimately contribute to economic growth and regional competitiveness. The training underscores the importance of strong leadership in achieving sustainable customs reform and trade facilitation objectives.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Highprofit Export Industries Key Strategies for Growth

Highprofit Export Industries Key Strategies for Growth

High-profit foreign trade relies not only on diligence but also on selecting industries focused on "customer profitability." This article analyzes high-yield foreign trade strategies, using the new energy industry as an example, explaining how to achieve profit growth through market insight and business model innovation. It emphasizes serving "external value purchasers" by providing solutions rather than just products, which is a breakthrough point for new energy foreign trade. Policy support, market demand, and technological innovation bring opportunities, while technical barriers, certification standards, and fierce competition pose challenges.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Uti Expands Usmexico Logistics Amid Nearshoring Boom

Uti Expands Usmexico Logistics Amid Nearshoring Boom

UTi Worldwide enhances its US-Mexico cross-border services to streamline trade processes, expedite customs clearance, and facilitate companies' nearshoring strategies. This service integrates transportation, customs brokerage, and warehousing, providing a one-stop solution to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and boost US-Mexico trade growth. By simplifying the complexities of cross-border logistics, UTi empowers businesses to capitalize on the advantages of nearshoring, fostering stronger economic ties between the two countries. The upgraded service aims to provide a seamless and reliable experience for businesses engaged in US-Mexico trade.

02/05/2026 Logistics
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Exploring Zanzibar City A Charming Port and Economic Hub of Tanzania

Exploring Zanzibar City A Charming Port and Economic Hub of Tanzania

Zanzibar City, the capital of Zanzibar Province in Tanzania, possesses significant port functions and unique cultural charm. As a maritime trade center, the port accommodates vessels with a draft of 9.14 meters and offers comprehensive services, ensuring safety and efficiency even under changing weather conditions, showcasing its potential as a global trade hub.

07/24/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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