US Bill Proposes Tax Credit for Short Line Railroad Upgrades

US Bill Proposes Tax Credit for Short Line Railroad Upgrades

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) welcomes the bipartisan Senate bill aimed at updating the short line railroad tax credit. This legislation seeks to modernize short line railroad infrastructure, support regional economic growth, and improve freight fluidity by adjusting the credit cap, expanding eligibility, and introducing inflation indexing. These changes will incentivize investment in critical infrastructure upgrades, allowing short lines to better serve their customers and contribute to the overall economic health of the communities they serve. The updated tax credit is crucial for maintaining and improving the nation's short line rail network.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Seaports Expand Boosting Logistics and Real Estate

US Seaports Expand Boosting Logistics and Real Estate

A Jones Lang LaSalle report indicates fierce competition in the US maritime market following the Panama Canal expansion, yet developers and investors are optimistic about port prospects. Port real estate outperforms the overall industrial market, driven by trade growth and the 'port-centric' model. The report highlights export-driven inland development opportunities, but notes limited large-scale warehouse space and infrastructure bottlenecks hindering growth. Future investment and network optimization are crucial to unlock the full potential of the US maritime market. Overcoming these challenges will be key to capitalizing on the increasing trade volume and solidifying the US as a global trade leader.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Customs Agencies Expand Role in Revenue Security Efforts

Customs Agencies Expand Role in Revenue Security Efforts

The article explores the importance of revenue collection as a core function of customs and how, with social development, the role of customs has expanded to include anti-counterfeiting, anti-terrorism, and environmental protection. Customs faces both challenges and opportunities in balancing these new tasks with traditional responsibilities.

08/07/2025 Customs Knowledge
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GS1 Standards Simplify Customs Boost Global Trade Efficiency

GS1 Standards Simplify Customs Boost Global Trade Efficiency

GS1 global standards are facilitating the standardization, digitalization, and unification of customs product classification, addressing existing complexities, inefficiencies, and conflicts. Utilizing key elements like GTIN, GPC, and GDSN, and incorporating China's pioneering practices of linking GTIN with HS codes, pilot projects have shown initial success. Moving forward, GS1 will continue to strengthen cooperation, promote standardized product classification, and facilitate global trade.

11/03/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Transforming Customs Declarations Enhancing Trade Efficiency and Regulation in China

Transforming Customs Declarations Enhancing Trade Efficiency and Regulation in China

This article provides a detailed analysis of the key changes between the old and new customs declarations, emphasizing the impact of removed and added content on businesses. The removal of items like the original approval number and settlement certificate aims to simplify the declaration process. The addition of special relationship confirmation and a unified social credit code further enhances tax management and trade transparency. Changes in naming and optimization of product categories improve overall operational convenience, contributing to the continuous improvement of the trade environment.

07/28/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Ethiopia Boosts Trade with WCO Harmonized System Partnership

Ethiopia Boosts Trade with WCO Harmonized System Partnership

The Ethiopian Customs Commission (ECC), in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), enhances the professional capacity of its officers in the Harmonized System (HS). This article emphasizes the importance of commodity classification, shares highlights from the ECC's study visit, and provides references and suggestions for customs and enterprises in other developing countries. The aim is to improve trade competitiveness through strengthened customs expertise and efficient classification practices, ultimately contributing to smoother international trade flows.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ghanas Customs Reforms Boost Women in West African Trade

Ghanas Customs Reforms Boost Women in West African Trade

The World Customs Organization partnered with the Ghana Revenue Authority on a Gender Equality and Diversity project, empowering female traders in Ghana. The project included stakeholder meetings with SMEs and small traders, aiming to simplify trade procedures, provide information support, and promote gender equality. The outcomes of these meetings will be used to improve customs services and create a more equitable trading environment for women traders. This initiative seeks to address barriers faced by women in trade and foster inclusive economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Qatar Customs Boosts Trade Security with AEO Program

Qatar Customs Boosts Trade Security with AEO Program

Qatar Customs, with WCO support, held an AEO program assessment workshop to optimize its upcoming AEO program and enhance trade security and efficiency. The workshop employed gap analysis, practical exercises, and work planning to lay the foundation for further AEO program improvements. The AEO program is expected to enhance Qatar's trade security, improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, and strengthen international cooperation. The focus was on identifying areas for improvement and developing a roadmap for successful implementation, ensuring the program meets international standards and contributes to a safer and more efficient trade environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advances Trade Reforms in Turkmenistan Via Revised Kyoto Convention

WCO Advances Trade Reforms in Turkmenistan Via Revised Kyoto Convention

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a seminar in Turkmenistan to promote the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) and raise awareness of the importance of simplified and harmonized customs procedures. By providing detailed interpretations of the RKC articles, self-assessment tools, and considering Turkmenistan's specific context, the WCO is helping the country lay the groundwork for future accession to the RKC. This initiative aims to facilitate trade and promote economic development in Turkmenistan by streamlining its customs processes and aligning them with international standards.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mongolia Improves Customs Valuation with WCO Assistance

Mongolia Improves Customs Valuation with WCO Assistance

At the request of the Mongolian Customs General Administration, a World Customs Organization (WCO) expert team conducted a diagnostic review of its valuation system and provided recommendations for improvement. The aim is to assist Mongolian Customs in building a more efficient and transparent valuation system by strengthening internal cooperation, developing talent, and keeping abreast of international best practices. This will enhance revenue collection, optimize the business environment, and promote trade development in Mongolia.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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