US Retail Imports Drop Amid Tariffs Supply Chain Strains

US Retail Imports Drop Amid Tariffs Supply Chain Strains

The National Retail Federation predicts a significant decline in US retail imports, influenced by the US-China trade war and seasonal factors. Retailers are actively adjusting their supply chain strategies, diversifying sourcing channels, promoting localized production, and embracing digital transformation to navigate uncertainty and reshape the global retail landscape. These adjustments aim to mitigate risks associated with trade tensions and build more resilient and agile supply chains in the face of evolving global dynamics.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Mali Customs HR System Sets Benchmark for West Africa

Mali Customs HR System Sets Benchmark for West Africa

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Mali Customs successfully implemented a competency-based human resources management system. Through broad participation and high-level support, they optimized recruitment, training, and performance management. This experience provides a valuable reference for other developing countries, emphasizing the importance of high-level commitment, broad participation, and a gradual approach. The goal is to enhance the professionalism of the customs workforce and contribute to national economic development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Outpost Greenpoint Invest 1B in Trucking Terminal Expansion

Outpost Greenpoint Invest 1B in Trucking Terminal Expansion

Outpost partners with GreenPoint, securing a $1 billion investment to accelerate the development of a national network of trucking terminals. Outpost provides fleets with flexible and efficient infrastructure by integrating physical locations, operations, and technology, expanding services to include office space, warehousing, maintenance, and fuel. Their access control automation platform aims to reduce costs and improve efficiency. This collaboration is set to reshape the trucking industry and create long-term value for the supply chain.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Chinas Lithography Breakthrough Boosts Chip Selfsufficiency Efforts

Chinas Lithography Breakthrough Boosts Chip Selfsufficiency Efforts

China has made initial progress in the independent research and development of lithography machines, potentially breaking ASML's technological monopoly. Despite facing technical challenges, China is determined to promote domestic chip production to ensure national security and industrial competitiveness. While the United States leads in the field of AI, independent control of chips is crucial for China. The two countries will engage in a long-term competition in the chip and AI sectors.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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PCT International Patent Fees to Rise in 2026 Impacting Businesses

PCT International Patent Fees to Rise in 2026 Impacting Businesses

The China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) announced adjustments to PCT application international phase fees, effective January 1, 2026. These changes primarily affect the international filing fee, handling fee, and the European Patent Office's international search fee. Companies should pay attention to these cost changes, optimize their application strategies, and closely monitor exchange rate fluctuations and subsequent announcements from the CNIPA. This requires proactive cost management and strategic planning for international patent protection.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Documentary Explores Chinese Migrations Cultural Legacy in Cuba

Documentary Explores Chinese Migrations Cultural Legacy in Cuba

The first episode of the documentary "Journey to the East" focuses on the wave of Chinese immigration to Cuba in the 19th century. It showcases the close connection between the Chinese immigrants and their homeland, and their significant contribution to the construction of Cuban national identity. The documentary, co-produced by the Chinese-funded American Hummingbird Cultural Tourism Group, presents a vivid picture of cultural and tourism cooperation between China and Cuba.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shanghai Intensifies Crackdown on Export Tax Fraud

Shanghai Intensifies Crackdown on Export Tax Fraud

Shanghai tax authorities have cracked down on export tax rebate fraud, investigating Shanghai Jinhui Investment Industry Co., Ltd. and Ru Chen International Trade (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. in two separate cases. The individuals involved have been severely punished by law, demonstrating the tax authorities' determination to maintain tax order and safeguard national financial security. The crackdown underscores the commitment to preventing economic crimes related to export tax rebates and ensuring fair trade practices.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambia Revenue Authority Enhances Trade Via WCO Partnership

Gambia Revenue Authority Enhances Trade Via WCO Partnership

The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) is collaborating with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to enhance its national performance measurement system through the implementation of the WCO Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM), better serving its 2025-2029 strategic plan. This collaboration focuses on trade facilitation measures, such as the AEO program, coordinated border management, and automation, aiming to create a more efficient, transparent, and predictable trading environment, ultimately fostering economic development in The Gambia.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cameroon Customs Strengthens Leadership for Reform

Cameroon Customs Strengthens Leadership for Reform

Cameroon Customs participated in a WCO leadership workshop to enhance its management capabilities. The initiative involved reclaiming outsourced functions and focusing on strategic, people, and change management. This effort supports broader government reforms by strengthening the customs administration's ability to implement strategic initiatives and manage organizational changes effectively. The workshop aimed to equip customs officials with the necessary leadership skills to navigate the complexities of modern customs administration and contribute to national development goals.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Efficiency with SECOWCO Aid

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Efficiency with SECOWCO Aid

Uzbekistan Customs, with the support of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, held a workshop on strategic planning and performance evaluation. The aim was to enhance customs' strategic planning and performance management capabilities. By strengthening strategic planning, clarifying strategic objectives, improving performance management, and developing key performance indicators (KPIs), Uzbekistan Customs is committed to building an efficient performance management system. This effort is geared towards promoting international trade facilitation and enhancing national competitiveness.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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