Moldova Boosts Trade Compliance with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

Moldova Boosts Trade Compliance with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Customs Valuation Workshop in Moldova, aiming to enhance the understanding and application of the WTO Valuation Agreement among Moldovan customs officials. The workshop focused on strengthening the role of valuation databases in risk assessment, standardizing valuation procedures, and addressing challenging issues such as the valuation of second-hand goods, the determination of assistance costs, and license fees. This initiative contributes to trade facilitation and economic development by improving customs valuation practices in Moldova.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Congo Enhances Customs Valuation with WCO Support

Congo Enhances Customs Valuation with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the General Directorate of Customs and Excise of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DGDA) in its transition following the termination of contracts with private inspection companies. A WCO expert mission visited the DRC to help DGDA officials consolidate their knowledge, introduce new tools, and provide technical support through meetings and workshops. The aim is to establish an efficient and transparent customs valuation system, promoting economic development and integration into the global economy for the DRC.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids DR Congo Customs to Enhance Trade Efficiency

WCO Aids DR Congo Customs to Enhance Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is providing technical assistance to the General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA) of the Democratic Republic of Congo to enhance its customs valuation capacity and reclaim outsourced functions. Through diagnostic assessments, recommended improvements, and capacity building initiatives, the WCO is helping the DRC build an efficient and transparent customs valuation system. This aims to promote trade facilitation and contribute to economic development by strengthening the country's ability to accurately value goods and collect revenue.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Madagascar Tax Authority Enhances Revenue Via HR Modernization

Madagascar Tax Authority Enhances Revenue Via HR Modernization

The Madagascar Revenue Authority (MRA) is modernizing its human resource management system with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO). By building a competency-based HR management system and empowering the HR department to become a strategic partner, the MRA aims to improve tax collection efficiency, optimize taxpayer services, and ultimately promote sustainable national economic development. The WCO's continued support will provide strong momentum for the MRA's modernization process. The focus is on developing talent and building capacity within the organization.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Truck Freight Declines in February Due to Weather Low Demand

US Truck Freight Declines in February Due to Weather Low Demand

American Trucking Associations data shows a month-over-month decline in US truck freight volume in February, influenced by winter weather and economic factors. Despite the short-term downturn, the industry remains cautiously optimistic about the full year, anticipating support from consumer spending, low fuel prices, and industrial production. Businesses need to proactively adjust their strategies, and the government should foster a favorable development environment. The decline serves as a reminder of the industry's sensitivity to external factors and the need for resilience.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Industry Adapts to Market Shifts and New Challenges

Trucking Industry Adapts to Market Shifts and New Challenges

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) president highlights that despite economic weakness, regulatory burdens, and talent shortages, the trucking industry's fundamental demand remains strong, offering a bright long-term outlook. To address these challenges and achieve sustainable growth, the industry must embrace technological innovation, strengthen talent development, actively participate in policy-making, improve service quality, and foster industry collaboration. Data analysis will play a crucial role in optimizing operations and mitigating risks, ultimately contributing to the industry's resilience and future success.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Growth Slows in November

US Service Sector Growth Slows in November

The US Services PMI grew for the fifth consecutive month in November, but the growth rate slowed, with mixed sub-indicators. Experts interpret this as a return to normalcy, but risks remain. The service sector faces multiple challenges, including inflation, interest rates, and geopolitical tensions, but also opportunities such as consumer demand and technological innovation. Businesses need to be cautiously optimistic and seek progress while maintaining stability to achieve sustainable development. The slower growth suggests a more moderate pace of economic recovery.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Court Approves Moreno Valleys Major Logistics Center Project

Court Approves Moreno Valleys Major Logistics Center Project

The 'World Logistics Center' project in Moreno Valley, California, has received support from a federal judge, clearing a key hurdle. The project aims to create the largest logistics hub in the United States, but has sparked environmental controversy. The court ruling is based on a voter-approved development initiative not being subject to the California Environmental Quality Act. The project is expected to bring economic benefits and job opportunities, but also faces transportation and environmental challenges. Its future direction remains uncertain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US and China Seek Trade Cooperation Amid Differences

US and China Seek Trade Cooperation Amid Differences

The Ministry of Commerce stated that China and the US have achieved multiple outcomes through five rounds of trade consultations, demonstrating their ability to resolve differences. Looking ahead, China is willing to work with the US to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, utilize the consultation mechanism effectively, manage differences, deepen cooperation, and promote the sustained and stable development of China-US economic and trade relations, which is in the interests of both countries and the world.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bolivia Boosts Customs Efficiency Via Trade Facilitation Project

Bolivia Boosts Customs Efficiency Via Trade Facilitation Project

Under the WCO's global trade facilitation program, a Mercator follow-up mission assessed Bolivian Customs' progress in trade facilitation and provided recommendations for improvement. The evaluation focused on key areas like risk management and advance rulings, engaging actively with stakeholders. Expert advice will help Bolivian Customs refine measures, improve service delivery, and contribute more to economic development. The assessment aimed to identify areas where further progress is needed to streamline procedures and reduce trade costs, ultimately boosting Bolivia's competitiveness in the global market.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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