Rotterdam Convention Spurs Customs Code Reform for Chemical Trade

Rotterdam Convention Spurs Customs Code Reform for Chemical Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) recommends revising the Harmonized System (HS) codes to more accurately track and regulate the international trade of hazardous chemicals controlled under the Rotterdam Convention. This aims to improve data quality, enhance international cooperation, and support more effective chemical management policies. Businesses need to proactively address compliance challenges and work together to build a safer global trade system. This revision will allow for better monitoring and enforcement of the Convention, ensuring responsible trade practices for dangerous chemicals.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Adopts PLACI for Safer Air Cargo

Global Trade Adopts PLACI for Safer Air Cargo

The 12th TEGACS Conference adopted the PLACI guiding principles, marking a significant upgrade in air cargo security. Pilot programs were initiated in the EU, US, and Canada, with enhanced cooperation between the WCO and ICAO. Technology is leveraged to address emerging challenges. PLACI aims to proactively identify risks, improve efficiency, and reshape the global trade landscape, achieving a balance between security and efficiency. This initiative seeks to streamline processes while ensuring robust security measures are in place for air cargo transportation worldwide.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Cambodias Customs Modernization Reforms

WCO Backs Cambodias Customs Modernization Reforms

At the request of the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE), the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted an assistance mission to assess the implementation gaps of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and help develop a five-year strategic plan. This initiative aims to promote customs modernization in Cambodia, enhance trade facilitation, and inject new impetus into economic development. The WCO will continue to support Cambodia's customs capacity building and strengthen international cooperation to jointly address global trade challenges.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Dashu Expands Crossborder Ecommerce Services for Global Growth

Dashu Expands Crossborder Ecommerce Services for Global Growth

Big Data Cross-border's New Year address reviews the achievements of the past year, expresses gratitude to partners for their support, and looks forward to future development. Big Data Cross-border will continue to adhere to the principle of customer first, continuously improve service quality and efficiency, and provide cross-border e-commerce practitioners with a more convenient and efficient service experience, helping Chinese brands go global. The company aims to empower businesses with data-driven solutions for successful international expansion.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shipping Firms Delay New Ships As Overcapacity Looms

Shipping Firms Delay New Ships As Overcapacity Looms

Facing pessimistic freight demand prospects, shipping companies are postponing new vessel deliveries to address overcapacity risks. Container accumulation exacerbates cost pressures, and supply-demand imbalances lead to a reversal of market fundamentals. Capacity reduction may alleviate some pressure, but long-term profitability prospects remain strained. Shipping companies need to respond prudently to navigate the cycle. The current situation highlights the challenges of managing capacity in a volatile market and the need for strategic adjustments to maintain competitiveness amidst fluctuating demand.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Accelerates Patent Exams for Crossborder Ecommerce

US Accelerates Patent Exams for Crossborder Ecommerce

The US Patent AE accelerated examination program will be permanently closed in July 2025, requiring cross-border e-commerce sellers to proactively respond. Track One prioritized examination is an alternative, offering strong cycle certainty and zero pre-examination burden. It is recommended to seize the time to submit AE applications and adopt strategies such as combining design patents with invention patents, and activating regional priority examination through the PCT route to address future challenges. This ensures continued access to expedited patent prosecution.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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DHL Expands Southern California Facility with 7M Ecommerce Investment

DHL Expands Southern California Facility with 7M Ecommerce Investment

DHL is expanding its service center in the Inland Empire, California, with a $7 million investment to address international trade and e-commerce growth. The expanded facility increases cargo handling capacity and adds new employees. This move is part of DHL's strategic plan to capitalize on e-commerce opportunities, optimize the supply chain, enhance customer service, and strengthen its market position, adapting to future trends. The Inland Empire, as a logistics hub, will benefit from this expansion, promoting local economic development.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Datadriven Breakthroughs Boost Wind Turbine Concrete Strength

Datadriven Breakthroughs Boost Wind Turbine Concrete Strength

The lack of high-strength concrete standards for wind power hybrid towers is a key focus of the REETC conference. This project aims to establish a database and indicator system to support hybrid tower design and promote the safe development of the technology. It will address the existing gap in standardization and provide a foundation for future advancements in the field. The developed database and indicators will be crucial for ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of wind power hybrid towers.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Gains Offset Coal Decline

US Rail Freight Intermodal Gains Offset Coal Decline

Recent data from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) reveals a mixed picture for the U.S. rail freight market. Container shipments have seen significant growth, reflecting resilient consumer demand, while traditional freight volumes are declining, highlighting the challenges of the energy transition. The Baltimore bridge collapse has created a short-term impact. The rail industry needs to innovate and collaborate to address these challenges and seize opportunities. The container volume increase suggests continued strength in the supply chain, despite broader economic uncertainties.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in Late July

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in Late July

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail carloads and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year in late July. Performance varied across specific categories, with year-to-date figures showing mixed results. Multiple factors, including macroeconomic conditions, supply chains, competition, structural changes, and geopolitics, are intertwined. While technological innovation, sustainable development, and infrastructure investment present opportunities, the rail industry must actively address challenges to achieve recovery. The overall outlook remains uncertain as the industry navigates these complex dynamics.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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