WCO JICA Enhance Pacific Islands Customs Capacity

WCO JICA Enhance Pacific Islands Customs Capacity

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly launched the "Program for Master Trainers" (PMF) to help Pacific Island countries build localized teams of HS experts. The program progressively enhances the HS classification capabilities of participating countries through online workshops, expert support, and regional cooperation. The ultimate goal is to establish a regional platform for sharing expert resources, thereby promoting trade facilitation in the Pacific region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Union Pacific Faces Scrutiny Over Railroading Strategy

Union Pacific Faces Scrutiny Over Railroading Strategy

Union Pacific is implementing the Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) model under close scrutiny by the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to avoid repeating CSX's challenges. The goal is to improve efficiency and reduce costs while balancing efficiency with service quality. The STB's oversight aims to ensure that service levels are maintained as Union Pacific optimizes its operations under the PSR framework.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Union Pacific CSX Open Detroitlaredo Intermodal Route

Union Pacific CSX Open Detroitlaredo Intermodal Route

Union Pacific and CSX have upgraded their UMAX intermodal service, adding a new route from Detroit to Laredo. This initiative aims to combine the strengths of rail and trucking, enhancing the efficiency of US-Mexico trade and reducing logistics costs for businesses. This upgrade signals the growing potential of intermodal transportation in North America.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
WCO Improves Disaster Relief for Pacific Islands

WCO Improves Disaster Relief for Pacific Islands

The World Customs Organization's COVID-19 Project aims to enhance the disaster response capabilities of customs administrations in Pacific Island Countries. Through online seminars, the project focuses on facilitating the clearance of disaster relief supplies, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, and updating relevant laws, regulations, and operational procedures. This ensures the efficient operation of humanitarian supply chains and improves overall regional resilience to disasters. The project emphasizes the importance of streamlined customs processes in delivering critical aid quickly and effectively during emergencies.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Union Pacific Norfolk Southern Explore Rail Merger

Union Pacific Norfolk Southern Explore Rail Merger

The proposed merger of US railroad giants UP and NS into a "super railroad" is raising concerns about competition and safety. The Surface Transportation Board (STB) will evaluate whether the merger is in the public interest. Key issues include potential impacts on freight rates, service quality, and the overall efficiency of the rail network. The STB's assessment will determine if the benefits of the merger outweigh the potential risks to shippers and the public.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Chatham Islands Emerge As Pacific Ecommerce Hub

Chatham Islands Emerge As Pacific Ecommerce Hub

The Chatham Islands are emerging as a new market for cross-border e-commerce. This region boasts a unique geographical location, abundant natural resources, and a vibrant economic environment, offering diverse business opportunities for cross-border sellers. By gaining a deep understanding of the characteristics and needs of the Chatham Islands, cross-border sellers can better develop strategies to explore the New Zealand and even international markets. This presents a promising avenue for growth and expansion in a relatively untapped region.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Asiapacific Customs Chiefs Plan Trade Recovery Reforms

Asiapacific Customs Chiefs Plan Trade Recovery Reforms

The WCO Asia Pacific Heads of Customs Conference was held in Seoul, focusing on upgrading strategies, building smart customs, and strengthening international cooperation. Thailand was elected as the next Vice-Chair. South Korea will establish a training center to further support capacity building in the region. The conference highlighted the importance of regional collaboration to enhance trade facilitation and security within the Asia Pacific region and beyond, aiming to create a more efficient and interconnected global trade environment.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Pacific Customs Alliance Expands Regional Expertise for Sustainable Growth

Pacific Customs Alliance Expands Regional Expertise for Sustainable Growth

WCO, in collaboration with JICA and Japan Customs, is supporting Pacific Island Countries in building a pool of customs experts through training programs. This initiative aims to enhance their customs enforcement capabilities and promote trade facilitation. The project focuses on strengthening regional cooperation and improving customs administration in the Pacific region, ultimately contributing to economic growth and security.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
Read More
US Japan Philippines Sign Trade Pact to Ease Shipping Delays

US Japan Philippines Sign Trade Pact to Ease Shipping Delays

The United States recently signed a new trade agreement with Japan and the Philippines to promote economic cooperation and enhance trade fluidity. However, with the increase in trade, serious congestion in trans-Pacific shipping has emerged, necessitating measures to ensure transport efficiency and ensure mutual benefits for the three countries.

07/24/2025 Logistics
Read More
Asiapacific Customs Adopts Advanced Cargo Data for Targeted Inspections

Asiapacific Customs Adopts Advanced Cargo Data for Targeted Inspections

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a seminar in the Asia-Pacific region focusing on leveraging Advance Cargo Information (ACI) to enhance customs risk assessment and targeting capabilities. Representatives from 26 customs administrations participated, engaging in in-depth discussions on key aspects such as risk management, risk profiling, and targeting. The seminar aimed to improve the ability of Asia-Pacific customs to address trade risks and promote trade facilitation. The discussions highlighted the importance of data quality and collaboration for effective ACI implementation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More