WCO Pledges Stronger Global Trade Cooperation in New Year

WCO Pledges Stronger Global Trade Cooperation in New Year

The Secretary General and staff of the World Customs Organization extend their New Year's greetings to member administrations and partners. They reaffirm their commitment to promoting the security and facilitation of international trade, strengthening cooperation, addressing global trade challenges, and fostering innovation and modernization within the customs domain. The WCO aims to contribute to global economic recovery and growth by enhancing trade efficiency and collaboration among its members and stakeholders in the coming year.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Balkan Customs Labs Enhance Trade Efficiency Through Regional Cooperation

Balkan Customs Labs Enhance Trade Efficiency Through Regional Cooperation

A Balkan Regional Customs Laboratory Workshop was held in Serbia, promoted by the World Customs Organization. The meeting focused on laboratory modernization, compliance with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, ISO 17025 quality certification, and CLEN cooperation opportunities. The aim was to enhance the capabilities of regional customs laboratories, promote trade facilitation, and build a more efficient trading environment. The discussions centered around improving analytical techniques, sharing best practices, and fostering collaboration to streamline customs procedures and reduce trade barriers within the Balkan region.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Growth Strains Warehouse Labor Supply

Ecommerce Growth Strains Warehouse Labor Supply

The surge in e-commerce has significantly increased the demand for warehouse labor, leading to recruitment difficulties for businesses. This report suggests several strategies to address these challenges, including increasing compensation, optimizing operational models, investing in employee training and development, and strategically implementing automation technologies. By focusing on these key areas, companies can improve their ability to attract and retain talent, and enhance overall warehouse efficiency in the face of growing e-commerce demands.

01/07/2026 Warehousing
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UPS Teamsters Reach Landmark Labor Deal

UPS Teamsters Reach Landmark Labor Deal

UPS expects the new five-year labor agreement with the Teamsters union to be approved within two weeks. Hailed as a 'win-win-win' solution, the agreement aims to improve employee benefits, stabilize operations, ensure customer service, and strengthen the long-term partnership between UPS and the Teamsters. This agreement is expected to pave the way for a new chapter of corporate development, offering benefits for employees, the company, and its customers while ensuring operational stability and growth.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Tech Innovations Ease Logistics Labor Shortages

Tech Innovations Ease Logistics Labor Shortages

The logistics industry faces the dual challenges of a labor shortage and a skills gap. This paper analyzes how leading companies are breaking through development bottlenecks by optimizing processes, introducing technology, upgrading employee skills, and employing flexible labor strategies to reduce costs and increase efficiency. The core concept is to "do more with less" by leveraging technology and upskilling the existing workforce to overcome labor constraints and improve overall productivity in the logistics sector.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Asiapacific Nations Strengthen Customs Cooperation Against Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

Asiapacific Nations Strengthen Customs Cooperation Against Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Asia-Pacific customs administrations in upgrading their plastic waste management. Through virtual diagnostics, tailored implementation plans were developed for Indonesia and the Philippines. A regional workshop is planned to strengthen cooperation in addressing the challenge of 'foreign waste' and protecting the blue skies of the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aims to enhance customs enforcement capabilities and ensure compliance with the Basel Convention, ultimately combating the illegal trade and improper disposal of plastic waste.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal Amid Ongoing Congestion Challenges

West Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal Amid Ongoing Congestion Challenges

The Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union reached a tentative agreement on a new five-year contract for West Coast ports, aiming to resolve port congestion and restore reputation. Details are yet to be released, but clearing backlogs and regaining shipper confidence remain challenges. Automation issues and supply chain resilience are key concerns. Future labor-management cooperation, increased efficiency, and comprehensive reforms are needed to ensure the long-term prosperity of the ports.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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UPS Teamsters Agree on Fiveyear Labor Deal

UPS Teamsters Agree on Fiveyear Labor Deal

UPS and the Teamsters have reached a five-year agreement focusing on employee well-being and enhanced business competitiveness. The agreement includes improved health benefits, enhanced welfare provisions, and steady wage increases, resolving disagreements over healthcare issues. Analysts believe this deal is beneficial for UPS and sets a benchmark for labor-management cooperation within the logistics industry. The agreement aims to provide stability and predictability for both the company and its workforce, ensuring continued service and growth.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Warehouses Adopt Five Strategies to Address Labor Shortages

Warehouses Adopt Five Strategies to Address Labor Shortages

A new white paper reveals five best practices for efficient labor management in warehouses and distribution centers. These include optimizing recruitment, enhancing training programs, implementing performance management systems, improving the work environment, and leveraging technology to optimize scheduling. The aim is to help companies address labor shortages, improve operational efficiency, and enhance market competitiveness by effectively managing their workforce within the warehouse setting. This provides actionable insights for overcoming staffing challenges.

01/21/2026 Warehousing
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Seattle Port Labor Dispute Threatens Supply Chains

Seattle Port Labor Dispute Threatens Supply Chains

The sudden weekend closure of the Port of Seattle due to a labor dispute highlights supply chain vulnerabilities. This article delves into the root causes of the labor conflict, explores corporate response strategies, and envisions the future construction of port operating systems. The aim is to enhance supply chain stability and efficiency in the face of potential disruptions. The closure serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of global trade and the potential for localized issues to have widespread consequences.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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