WCO Releases Guide to Curb Illegal Trade in Ecosensitive Goods

WCO Releases Guide to Curb Illegal Trade in Ecosensitive Goods

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released guidelines to assist customs officers in combating illegal trade in environmentally sensitive commodities. The guidelines place particular emphasis on the Basel Convention and aim to strengthen border controls to protect the environment. By focusing on key areas such as waste management and hazardous materials, the WCO seeks to enhance customs' role in preventing the illicit movement of environmentally damaging goods across international borders and ensuring compliance with international environmental agreements. This initiative is crucial for safeguarding environmental security and promoting sustainable trade practices.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Nears Yearend Deal With International Backing

WTO Nears Yearend Deal With International Backing

This WTO meeting reviewed negotiation progress, updated the Consolidated Negotiating Text, and defined future directions. Key decisions included inviting international organizations to participate and setting the date for the next meeting. The meeting emphasized the importance of technical assistance and looked ahead to the challenges and opportunities in the negotiations. The year-end sprint meeting will be a crucial moment, requiring all parties to work together to build the future of global trade.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to MAWB Vs HAWB for Efficient Air Freight Clearance

Guide to MAWB Vs HAWB for Efficient Air Freight Clearance

In international air freight, the Master Air Waybill (MAWB) and House Air Waybill (HAWB) are crucial transport documents. The MAWB serves as the contract of carriage between the airline and the freight forwarder, and is a legal document for customs clearance and cargo release. The HAWB represents the internal agreement between the freight forwarder and the shipper, and is dependent on the MAWB. Confusing the two can lead to customs clearance failures, cargo delivery delays, or even liability disputes. This article details the differences and applications of MAWB and HAWB to help you avoid air freight risks.

11/03/2025 Document Interpretation
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DR Congo Boosts Customs Oversight to Reform Trade Practices

DR Congo Boosts Customs Oversight to Reform Trade Practices

The General Directorate of Customs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) sought technical assistance from the World Customs Organization (WCO) to regain control over customs valuation, aiming to assess and enhance the capabilities of customs officers. Following a diagnostic assessment, the WCO recommended that the DRC utilize modern tools such as risk management and post-clearance audit, and supported its strategy to comply with the Niamey Declaration and the Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative not only improves customs valuation capacity in the DRC but also revitalizes the national economy and reshapes the trade landscape.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Thailand Pushes for Remanufacturing in Trade Pacts to Aid Circular Economy

Thailand Pushes for Remanufacturing in Trade Pacts to Aid Circular Economy

This study explores the necessity of including remanufactured goods provisions in Thailand's regional trade agreements. By analyzing Thailand's circular economy policies, comparing relevant clauses in various RTAs, and incorporating case studies, it assesses the environmental, economic, and social impacts of incorporating remanufacturing provisions for Thailand. The aim is to provide decision-making references for the Thai government and promote circular economy development. The research considers the potential benefits and challenges of such inclusion, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy in Thailand.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Rail Unions Companies Reach Tentative Deals to Avoid Strikes

US Rail Unions Companies Reach Tentative Deals to Avoid Strikes

Significant progress has been made in US railroad labor negotiations. Two major unions reached tentative agreements with freight rail companies, potentially averting a rail service disruption that could have begun on September 16th. These agreements, reached under the recommendations of the Presidential Emergency Board (PEB), involve wage increases and lump-sum payments. While some unions have yet to reach agreements, parties are actively seeking solutions to ensure the stable operation of the rail transportation network.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Senate Passes Bill to Prevent Nationwide Rail Strike

Senate Passes Bill to Prevent Nationwide Rail Strike

The US Senate passed critical legislation to avert a freight railroad strike that threatened to cost the economy up to $2 billion daily. The legislation, based on recommendations from the Presidential Emergency Board, includes wage increases and benefit improvements. It aims to resolve the dispute between labor unions and railroad companies, ensuring supply chain stability and continued economic growth. This action prevents a potential economic crisis stemming from a nationwide rail shutdown, safeguarding businesses and consumers alike by maintaining vital transportation links.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Senate Passes Bill to Block Rail Strike Biden Enacts Law

Senate Passes Bill to Block Rail Strike Biden Enacts Law

The US Senate passed a bill to avert a potentially devastating railroad strike. The legislation, based on recommendations from the Presidential Emergency Board, addresses disputes between railroad unions and employers regarding wages, sick leave, and work schedules. President Biden has signed the bill into law, ensuring stability in the supply chain during the holiday season. This action prevents significant economic disruption that would have resulted from a nationwide rail shutdown.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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WTO Addresses Customs Valuation Challenges in Global Trade

WTO Addresses Customs Valuation Challenges in Global Trade

This article delves into key customs valuation decision issues under the WTO framework, including the French translation of copyright, the meaning of the term 'undertaken,' the treatment of interest on imported goods, software carrier valuation, the definition of processing and improvement, and addressing customs queries and handling minimum prices and exclusive agency issues. It aims to provide trade participants with a clear understanding and effective response strategies within the international trade context. This helps navigate the complexities of customs valuation under WTO rules.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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UPS Q2 Revenue Falls 27 Amid Economic Uncertainty

UPS Q2 Revenue Falls 27 Amid Economic Uncertainty

In its Q2 2025 earnings report, UPS reported a 2.7% decline in revenue, citing external economic uncertainties affecting performance. While some business segments showed growth, overall operating profit decreased. The CEO emphasized that the company will accelerate collaboration with Amazon to reduce package volume and enhance competitiveness.

07/29/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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