WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is upgrading the PICARD Professional Standards (PS) to adapt to the evolving global trade landscape. The updated standards will encompass key areas such as public-private sector cooperation, customs and tax function integration, and coordinated border management. It will also address emerging trends, security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. The WCO invites stakeholders to participate in capacity building initiatives to jointly promote global customs development. This collaborative effort aims to enhance customs efficiency and effectiveness worldwide.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde Customs Modernizes with WCO Support

Cape Verde Customs Modernizes with WCO Support

The WCO, through the WACAM project, is assisting Cape Verde Customs in optimizing customs clearance procedures. A Time Release Study (TRS) was conducted to improve trade efficiency, reduce costs, and attract investment. The TRS aims to identify bottlenecks in the clearance process and provide recommendations for streamlining procedures. This initiative supports Cape Verde's efforts to enhance its competitiveness and integrate more effectively into the global trading system. The focus is on faster release times, which directly benefits businesses and promotes economic growth.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Customs Adopts Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

Burkina Faso Customs Adopts Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Burkina Faso in establishing an advance ruling mechanism to enhance trade predictability, reduce compliance costs, and improve customs efficiency. Through capacity building workshops and the WACAM project, the WCO supports Burkina Faso's customs modernization and promotes regional trade development. The establishment of this mechanism will improve the trade environment, foster economic growth, and serve as a reference for other African countries. The initiative aligns with global efforts to streamline trade processes and promote efficient customs operations.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wayfair Cancels Houston Warehouse Amid Strategy Reevaluation

Wayfair Cancels Houston Warehouse Amid Strategy Reevaluation

Online furniture giant Wayfair's cancellation of its Houston fulfillment center project reflects a strategic shift amid economic downturn and intensified market competition. The company is now focusing on core business, optimizing operational efficiency, and pursuing cautious investment expansion. This move impacts Wayfair's own development and also calls for rational expansion, optimized layouts, and technological innovation within the broader logistics industry. Wayfair's decision highlights the need for companies to adapt their strategies to navigate challenging economic conditions and prioritize sustainable growth.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Prologis Reports Shift in Logistics Real Estate Demand

Prologis Reports Shift in Logistics Real Estate Demand

The Prologis IBI index indicates a turning point in logistics real estate demand, with increases in net absorption, new leases, and project pipeline. The report reveals that companies are actively responding to trade uncertainties and increasing supply chain investments. Improved utilization and market conditions are key drivers of demand growth. Vacancy rates are expected to remain stable in the short term. However, in the long term, a tightening construction pipeline could lead to market tightening again, potentially accelerating rental growth.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Logistics Industry Weighs Infrastructure Acts Impact

US Logistics Industry Weighs Infrastructure Acts Impact

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act aims to upgrade US infrastructure and potentially enhance long-term logistics efficiency, but its short-term impact may be limited. The policy's focus on equity and environmental protection could influence logistics project approvals. Logistics companies need to actively participate, adjust strategies, and pay attention to technological innovation. This act will reshape the US logistics landscape and impact the global supply chain. Companies should proactively adapt to the changing regulatory environment and explore opportunities arising from infrastructure improvements.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Colombia Customs Boosts Efficiency with WCO Partnership

Colombia Customs Boosts Efficiency with WCO Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), remotely assisted the Colombian Customs (DIAN) in strategic planning and optimizing its Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) system to improve management efficiency. The project aims to build a sustainable performance management system, supporting DIAN's institutional transformation and capacity building. This initiative lays the foundation for the modernization of Colombian Customs and contributes to global trade facilitation efforts. The GTFP's support is crucial for enhancing DIAN's strategic alignment and operational effectiveness.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Infrastructure Bill Aims to Relieve Supply Chain Strains

US Infrastructure Bill Aims to Relieve Supply Chain Strains

The United States passed a $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill aimed at improving transportation, broadband networks, water and electricity infrastructure, and alleviating supply chain bottlenecks. The CAGTC welcomed the bill but emphasized the need for patience as funds become available and projects are implemented. The bill is expected to promote economic growth but faces challenges such as project approvals, labor shortages, and inflation. The long-term impact hinges on efficient execution and overcoming these hurdles to modernize critical infrastructure and boost the economy.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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28mm Steel Rebar Weight Calculations Crucial for Construction

28mm Steel Rebar Weight Calculations Crucial for Construction

This article provides a detailed analysis of the weight calculation method for φ28 rebar per meter, commonly used in the construction industry. It emphasizes the difference between theoretical calculation and practical application, and offers weight references for other common rebar sizes. The importance of actual measurement is also highlighted, aiming to help construction professionals more accurately control material costs and ensure project quality. This knowledge is crucial for effective engineering budgeting and minimizing discrepancies between estimated and actual material consumption.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Airlines Adopt Inclusive Website Design Standards

Airlines Adopt Inclusive Website Design Standards

This paper explores enhancing accessibility services on airline websites, focusing on facilitating information access for people with disabilities. By analyzing the Italian "One Click Away" pilot project, it proposes best practices such as adopting a unified visual entry point and optimizing information content. The aim is to help airlines create user-centric, accessible websites and build an inclusive air travel ecosystem. The study highlights the importance of considering diverse needs to ensure equitable access to information and services for all travelers.

01/19/2026 Airlines
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