Malawi Strengthens Customs Controls to Boost Trade Efficiency

Malawi Strengthens Customs Controls to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of Malawi Customs' risk management processes to support Malawi's customs modernization reforms under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. The assessment identified shortcomings in Malawi Customs' risk management practices and provided recommendations for improvement. The WCO will continue to collaborate with Malawi to advance its trade facilitation agenda. The assessment highlights the need for enhanced risk profiling, improved data analysis, and strengthened cooperation between customs and other agencies to effectively manage risks and facilitate legitimate trade.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Armenia Boosts Customs Oversight with WCO Assistance

Armenia Boosts Customs Oversight with WCO Assistance

The WCO assessed Armenia's customs risk management and post-clearance audit (PCA) systems to enhance trade facilitation and compliance with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The assessment aimed to identify areas for improvement and provide recommendations for strengthening these critical functions. Armenia expressed its gratitude for the WCO's support and looks forward to continued collaboration in further developing its customs practices and procedures. The focus is on aligning with international standards and best practices to promote efficient and secure trade flows.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chinaeurope Air Freight Faces Delays Seeks Efficiency Boost

Chinaeurope Air Freight Faces Delays Seeks Efficiency Boost

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the factors influencing China-Europe air freight transit time, including geographical distance, flight selection, customs clearance efficiency, external environment, and operational procedures. It offers strategic recommendations for optimizing air freight transit time, aiming to assist businesses in better planning the air freight segment of China-Europe trade and improving supply chain efficiency. The research highlights key areas for improvement and provides practical insights for businesses seeking faster and more reliable air freight solutions.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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Freight Market Shows Modest Gains but Challenges Persist for Shippers

Freight Market Shows Modest Gains but Challenges Persist for Shippers

The FTR Shippers Condition Index (SCI) indicates the freight market remains challenging for shippers. While the July SCI showed a slight improvement, it remains negative. Stabilizing factors include steady rail service and easing truckload pressures, but the peak season and new tariffs present challenges. Shippers need to optimize transportation networks, strengthen partnerships, adopt technology, and remain flexible to navigate market changes. The SCI reflects the overall health of the freight market from the shipper's perspective, considering factors like capacity, rates, and regulations.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Lowes Expands Rural Reach Overhauls Supply Chain

Lowes Expands Rural Reach Overhauls Supply Chain

Lowe's is undergoing a strategic overhaul, focusing on targeted expansion, penetrating rural markets, restructuring its logistics system, and collaborating with third-party platforms. Leveraging data-driven store site selection, customized product assortments for rural locations, an efficient three-tiered node-based supply chain network, and online expansion of long-tail SKUs, Lowe's aims to create a more resilient and competitive omnichannel home improvement retail landscape. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance customer reach and operational efficiency across diverse market segments.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chinaus Ocean Freight Faces Delays Seeks Faster Transit

Chinaus Ocean Freight Faces Delays Seeks Faster Transit

This paper analyzes the time efficiency of ocean shipping from China to the United States, considering factors such as distance, shipping routes, and customs clearance. It proposes optimization strategies, such as direct routes and faster vessel types, to improve logistics efficiency. The analysis aims to identify key areas for improvement in China-US maritime transport, ultimately contributing to smoother and faster international trade between the two countries. Focus is placed on practical solutions that can be implemented by shipping companies and logistics providers.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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Chinaus Ocean Freight Key Routes and Cost Strategies

Chinaus Ocean Freight Key Routes and Cost Strategies

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the US-China ocean freight market, covering introductions to major shipping companies, service type selection, analysis of factors influencing freight rates, and evaluation of shipping transit times. It also offers practical advice on choosing a freight forwarder, helping businesses optimize US-China trade transportation solutions and achieve cost reduction and efficiency improvement. The analysis helps navigate the complexities of ocean freight, providing insights for informed decision-making in the US-China trade lane.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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Europe Ocean Freight Costs Fall As Supply Chain Pressures Ease

Europe Ocean Freight Costs Fall As Supply Chain Pressures Ease

Good news for European shipping: port congestion is easing, container supply is increasing, and freight rates are stabilizing with a slight decrease. However, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and global economic slowdown continue to introduce uncertainty. Foreign trade enterprises need to pay close attention to market dynamics and manage risks effectively. The improvement in congestion and container availability offers some relief, but ongoing geopolitical and economic factors necessitate careful monitoring and proactive risk mitigation strategies for businesses involved in European trade.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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WCO Enhances Trade and Customs Modernization in Namibia

WCO Enhances Trade and Customs Modernization in Namibia

At the request of Namibian Customs, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment to support the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through in-depth research and tailored recommendations, the WCO aims to help Namibian Customs streamline processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen cooperation with other development partners. The ultimate goal is to achieve customs modernization and promote economic growth in Namibia. This initiative focuses on identifying areas for improvement and providing practical guidance for enhancing trade facilitation measures.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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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