US Water Infrastructure Bill to Upgrade Ports Boost Resilience

US Water Infrastructure Bill to Upgrade Ports Boost Resilience

The US Congress has reached an agreement on the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. This bill will improve port dredging depths, increase federal funding support, and authorize the Army Corps of Engineers to initiate multiple water resources projects. Ports are expected to be the biggest beneficiaries, but funding allocation and project implementation still face challenges. The WIIN Act marks a new beginning for water resources development in the United States, requiring joint efforts from all parties to ensure its effective implementation.

LA and Long Beach Ports Boost Supply Chain Green Efforts

LA and Long Beach Ports Boost Supply Chain Green Efforts

The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are strengthening their collaboration to address global trade challenges by updating their cooperation agreement. This focuses on supply chain logistics, gateway marketing, environmental sustainability, security, and legislative advocacy. Initiatives include the launch of a 'gray chassis pool' to improve container transportation efficiency and plans for a stakeholder summit to resolve freight challenges. The ports are also continuing to advance the Clean Air Action Plan, aiming to create a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and secure port complex.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Botswana Strengthens Environmental Customs Enforcement Under Global Pacts

Botswana Strengthens Environmental Customs Enforcement Under Global Pacts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with UNEP and others, held a workshop for Botswana Customs to enhance awareness of the Basel and Montreal Conventions and strengthen controls over the cross-border movement of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances. The workshop fostered cooperation between customs and environmental agencies. Further technical assistance is planned to support the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative aims to bolster Botswana's capacity in enforcing environmental regulations and facilitating legitimate trade while preventing illegal trafficking of harmful materials.

Aviation Sector Boosts Decarbonization Amid Tighter Policies

Aviation Sector Boosts Decarbonization Amid Tighter Policies

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urges governments to adopt supportive policies to accelerate aviation decarbonization. The CAAF/3 agreement lays the foundation for a global framework, emphasizing the promotion of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), setting emission reduction targets, and fostering international cooperation and technology transfer. IATA highlights the necessity of policy support, technological innovation, and economic incentives to collectively drive the sustainable development of the aviation industry. This collaborative approach is crucial for achieving meaningful progress in reducing the carbon footprint of air travel.

Cape Verde Enhances Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

Cape Verde Enhances Trade Efficiency with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WCO-WACAM project, supports Cape Verde in conducting a Time Release Study (TRS) to optimize customs efficiency, attract foreign investment, and comply with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The forthcoming report is expected to streamline procedures, enhance port infrastructure, and strengthen inter-agency collaboration. This initiative aims to facilitate Cape Verde's integration into the global economy by improving trade competitiveness and reducing trade barriers. The study's findings will provide actionable recommendations for enhancing the overall customs clearance process.

WCO Adopts Data Analytics to Boost Trade and Security

WCO Adopts Data Analytics to Boost Trade and Security

The 215th/216th sessions of the WCO's Permanent Technical Committee focused on the application of data analysis in customs, highlighting its importance in trade facilitation, supply chain security, and e-commerce regulation. Discussions covered the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, integrated supply chain management, future technology applications, and customs-tax cooperation. The aim was to enhance the regulatory and service capabilities of customs administrations and promote global trade development. This involved exploring how data-driven insights can optimize processes and improve efficiency within customs operations.

Middle East and North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

Middle East and North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

A regional workshop in Amman, Jordan, focused on customs valuation and anti-fraud, aiming to enhance the capabilities of customs officials in the Middle East and North Africa. The workshop covered the WTO Valuation Agreement, WCO's Revenue Package tools, and anti-fraud strategies. Key discussions centered on Decision 6.1 and valuation risk management. Emphasis was placed on international cooperation, capacity building, legal improvements, and technological innovation. The goal was to foster a fairer trade environment by strengthening customs practices and combating fraudulent activities in the region.

Zimbabwe Enhances Customs Oversight with WCO Assistance

Zimbabwe Enhances Customs Oversight with WCO Assistance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) in enhancing its capabilities to effectively implement the Trade Facilitation Agreement by hosting a customs project management training workshop in Zimbabwe. This training aimed to strengthen ZIMRA's capacity in project management and human resources to address trade facilitation challenges and promote economic development in Zimbabwe. The initiative also serves as a model for other developing countries. The workshop focused on practical skills and knowledge transfer to improve ZIMRA's efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations.

Malawis Customs Talent Strategy Wins World Praise

Malawis Customs Talent Strategy Wins World Praise

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully assessed the talent development foundation of the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), aiming to help build a stronger human resource system to address the challenges posed by the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The assessment covered key areas such as strategic orientation, capacity building, and training systems. A national e-learning platform was also launched to support the MRA in enhancing customs professional capabilities. This initiative is crucial for Malawi to effectively implement trade facilitation measures and improve its overall customs efficiency.

Thailand Sierra Leone Push Kyoto Convention Signatories Over 100

Thailand Sierra Leone Push Kyoto Convention Signatories Over 100

With Thailand and Sierra Leone joining, the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) has surpassed 100 contracting parties, marking a significant step in global trade facilitation. The convention aims to simplify and harmonize customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and improve efficiency. It works in synergy with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement, injecting new vitality into global economic development. The WCO encourages more members to join and collectively promote trade facilitation. This milestone underscores the growing global commitment to streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth through simplified customs procedures.