WCO Chief Visits Dutch Customs to Boost Global Trade Links

WCO Chief Visits Dutch Customs to Boost Global Trade Links

WCO Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya visited the Netherlands Customs, focusing on information sharing, GNC, data quality, the Multilateral Mutual Assistance Convention, and mutual recognition, discussing global customs cooperation. The Secretary General expressed gratitude for the Netherlands' contribution to WCO technical assistance and looks forward to continued collaboration to build an open, efficient, and secure new global trade landscape. The visit highlighted the importance of strengthened partnerships and innovative solutions for addressing evolving challenges in international trade and customs administration.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Firms Face Risks in Commercial Agency Deals

Global Firms Face Risks in Commercial Agency Deals

This article delves into the concept of commercial agency in international trade, highlighting its essence as a consignment model and emphasizing the importance of agency agreements. It also identifies potential risks associated with commercial agency and provides recommendations for mitigating them. The aim is to help businesses better leverage commercial agency to expand into overseas markets. Understanding the nuances of agency agreements and potential liabilities is crucial for successful international expansion. This analysis offers valuable insights for companies considering this strategy.

09/26/2025 International Settlement
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Trade Deals Cut Sourcing Costs for Global Manufacturers

Trade Deals Cut Sourcing Costs for Global Manufacturers

Multinational manufacturers can significantly reduce global procurement costs by effectively leveraging trade agreements. This paper proposes five best practices: in-depth understanding of regulations, building a regulatory database, optimizing supply chain connectivity, utilizing advanced technology, and continuous improvement. By implementing these practices, companies can lower tariff expenses and enhance their competitiveness in the global market. Focusing on these key areas enables businesses to maximize the benefits offered by trade agreements and achieve substantial cost savings in their international sourcing operations.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Rail Unions Approve Labor Deal Averting Strike

US Rail Unions Approve Labor Deal Averting Strike

US railroad labor negotiations are at a critical juncture, with six unions having ratified the new contract. The Association of American Railroads (AAR) is actively promoting the approval of the remaining agreements, emphasizing their economic importance. This analysis examines the core issues of the labor negotiations, the AAR's position, potential economic impacts, and future scenarios. It also provides recommendations for businesses to manage associated risks. The AAR highlights that failure to ratify all agreements could have significant negative consequences for the US economy.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Trade War Fears Threaten Freight Industry Amid Recession Risks

Trade War Fears Threaten Freight Industry Amid Recession Risks

Global trade tensions and tariff policies are creating uncertainty in the freight economy, impacting business investment, hiring, and expansion decisions. Fitch Ratings has lowered its U.S. growth forecast and warns that tariffs could lead to inflation and recession. Businesses should diversify supply chains, optimize inventory management, and explore new markets. Policymakers need to maintain the multilateral trading system, avoid escalating trade wars, and create a stable business environment. These measures are crucial to mitigating the negative effects of trade disputes and promoting sustainable economic growth.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shipping Alliances Face Scrutiny Over Port Delays Costs

Shipping Alliances Face Scrutiny Over Port Delays Costs

NCBFAA is calling for stricter scrutiny of large vessel sharing agreements, demanding that carriers meet prerequisites and provide contingency plans. This aims to ensure fairness within the industry and safeguard the rights of shippers. The organization believes that increased oversight will help mitigate potential negative impacts associated with these agreements, particularly concerning port congestion and the shifting of costs onto shippers. By requiring carriers to demonstrate their ability to handle disruptions and adhere to fair practices, the NCBFAA hopes to create a more stable and equitable environment for all stakeholders.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Tackles Customs Law Reform As Nationalism Grows

WCO Tackles Customs Law Reform As Nationalism Grows

The 13th World Customs Law Conference focused on customs law changes and multilateral trade system challenges against the backdrop of nationalism. The World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized the crucial role of capacity building in addressing trade protectionism and presented its work in e-commerce. The conference also discussed issues such as the participation of Least Developed Countries in international trade, the EU Customs Code, and challenges for customs brokers. The aim was to promote trade facilitation and security, and to maintain the stability of the global trading system.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Trends Chalk HS Code Analysis

Global Trade Trends Chalk HS Code Analysis

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the HS code for chalk (2509000000), associated tax rates, and global trade agreements, offering essential information for businesses to understand market trends and facilitating the smooth process of international trade.

04/06/2025 HS Code Query
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Global Fishing Gear Trade Faces Shifting Tax Rates

Global Fishing Gear Trade Faces Shifting Tax Rates

This article provides a detailed analysis of the HS code 9507900000, covering product descriptions, export and import tax rates, and the impacts of international trade agreements. It offers practical market insights and strategic recommendations for industry chain participants.

04/06/2025 HS Code Query
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