West Africa Enhances Customs Risk Management During Pandemic

West Africa Enhances Customs Risk Management During Pandemic

Supported by the WCO/JICA joint project, West African Customs administrations continued to enhance their risk management and intelligence analysis capabilities during the pandemic through online training. The MTP project, involving six countries including Benin, aims to cultivate a team of experts proficient in these skills and has made significant progress. By adopting innovative training methods, the project overcame the challenges posed by the pandemic and injected new momentum into customs capacity building in West Africa. The online format allowed for continued learning and development despite travel restrictions and social distancing measures.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Firms Transform Pandemic Inventory Glut into Strategic Advantage

Firms Transform Pandemic Inventory Glut into Strategic Advantage

In the post-pandemic era, inventory pile-up has become a new challenge for supply chains. A reader survey by *Logistics Management* reveals that companies face the dual dilemma of high and low inventory levels. Diversified procurement, enhanced communication, and accurate forecasting are key to resolving the inventory crisis. Lean inventory management will help companies improve supply chain resilience and embrace the new market normal.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Ends Thirdparty Delivery to Streamline Pandemic Operations

Amazon Ends Thirdparty Delivery to Streamline Pandemic Operations

Amazon suspended non-essential, third-party package delivery services to focus resources on surging first-party business during the pandemic and ensure timely delivery of essential goods. Experts believe this move poses little immediate threat to UPS and FedEx. However, Amazon's long-term potential as a powerful competitor in the logistics space remains significant. This action highlights the importance of adaptable logistics networks in responding to unexpected events and maintaining service levels during times of crisis.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Pandemic Drives Surge in Trucking Demand Shipping Rates

Pandemic Drives Surge in Trucking Demand Shipping Rates

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in emergency restocking demands from retailers, significantly driving up spot market truckload rates and freight volumes. DAT data reveals a sharp increase in demand for van and refrigerated trucks, resulting in continuously rising rates. Experts predict a hot market in the short term, but the long-term trend remains uncertain, contingent on the pandemic's impact on consumer demand and supply chains. The need for rapid replenishment to meet consumer needs is a key factor influencing the current freight market dynamics.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Customs Key to Asiapacific Trade Resilience During Pandemic

Customs Key to Asiapacific Trade Resilience During Pandemic

The Asian Development Bank and UNESCAP jointly held a webinar focusing on the critical role of customs in safeguarding trade and connectivity during the pandemic. The WCO Secretary General emphasized the need for customs to ensure supply chain transparency and shared WCO's response measures and recommendations for regional cooperation. These included coordinating border management, digitizing procedures, and building capacity. The meeting highlighted the importance of customs in facilitating trade and building resilient supply chains during global crises.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pandemic Risks Longterm Damage to Global Economic Growth

Pandemic Risks Longterm Damage to Global Economic Growth

An IHS Markit report indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic not only caused an economic recession but also poses a threat to long-term growth. The labor market, capital stock, and total factor productivity have all been negatively affected. Real GDP in developed economies is projected to be lower than pre-pandemic expectations by 2030. Accelerated digitalization may partially offset these adverse effects, but the overall long-term economic consequences remain significant and concerning.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Pandemic Speeds Ecommerce Shift Alters Retail and Shipping

Pandemic Speeds Ecommerce Shift Alters Retail and Shipping

A ShipStation report reveals a surge in online shopping during the pandemic, with consumers paying closer attention to shipping costs, speed, and return policies. Retailers should proactively communicate delivery information, optimize return processes, and flexibly address supply chain challenges to enhance customer experience and gain market share. Meeting heightened consumer expectations regarding transparency and convenience in e-commerce logistics is crucial for successful retail strategies in the post-pandemic landscape.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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MIT Report Pandemic Accelerates Supply Chain Sustainability Efforts

MIT Report Pandemic Accelerates Supply Chain Sustainability Efforts

An MIT report on supply chain sustainability reveals that the pandemic has accelerated corporate investment in this area. 82% of respondents stated that their company's commitment to SCS remained the same or increased. The report emphasizes the importance of transparency, accountability, and renewable energy. Combined with industry insights from KPMG, it provides guidance for businesses to build more resilient, sustainable, and responsible supply chains. This includes strategies for mitigating risks, improving efficiency, and enhancing brand reputation through sustainable practices.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Air Cargo Demand Slumps As Pandemic Disrupts Capacity

Air Cargo Demand Slumps As Pandemic Disrupts Capacity

The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the air cargo industry, which was already facing declining demand. Flight cancellations led to a sharp reduction in capacity, creating transportation bottlenecks for resuming production. This article analyzes the impact of the pandemic on air cargo and explores future transformation and innovation directions for the industry. These include optimizing route networks, improving operational efficiency, strengthening collaborations, developing diversified businesses, and embracing digitalization. The industry needs to adapt to the new normal to ensure resilience and sustainable growth in the post-pandemic era.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Guide Aids Customs in Pandemic Trade Continuity

WCO Guide Aids Customs in Pandemic Trade Continuity

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 'Communication Guidelines in Times of Crisis' to assist member customs administrations in addressing communication challenges posed by the pandemic and maintaining the stability of global supply chains. The guidelines cover communication objectives, audiences, channels, and strategies, emphasizing timeliness, accuracy, and transparency. The WCO encourages members to share best practices to collectively combat the pandemic and build a safer and more efficient global trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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