WCO Updates Customs Lab Handbook to Boost Regional Standards

WCO Updates Customs Lab Handbook to Boost Regional Standards

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has updated its Customs Laboratory Guide, adding Annex V, which provides information on Regional Customs Laboratories (RCLs) and the procedures and requirements for establishing them. This initiative aims to strengthen regional capacity building, assisting members in upgrading their laboratories and becoming regional benchmarks. The guide, available in English and French on the WCO Members' website, serves as a crucial resource for customs laboratory advancement. It promotes cooperation and knowledge sharing within regions to enhance analytical capabilities and facilitate trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New CSCRM 2026 Standards to Elevate Freight Industry Practices

New CSCRM 2026 Standards to Elevate Freight Industry Practices

The Cargo Services Conference Resolutions Manual (CSCRM) 2026 edition is a leading guide for freight services, covering key areas like cargo handling, documentation, ULD control, and dangerous goods transportation. Based on IATA Resolutions and Recommended Practices, it offers practical guidance to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge. The 2026 edition is effective from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026.

01/20/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Bluegrace Exec Joins Digital LTL Council to Shape Standards

Bluegrace Exec Joins Digital LTL Council to Shape Standards

BlueGrace Logistics' Chief Commercial Officer, Adam Blankenship, has joined the Digital LTL Council to drive digital transformation in the LTL freight industry. The council will focus on establishing unified industry standards covering key areas such as electronic bills of lading, freight visibility and tracking, and exception handling. This initiative aims to support scalable automation and digitization within LTL freight, ultimately improving industry efficiency and service quality.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Guatemala Customs Adopts WCO Standards to Boost Trade Efficiency

Guatemala Customs Adopts WCO Standards to Boost Trade Efficiency

The WCO is assisting Guatemala in accelerating its accession to the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), aiming to streamline customs procedures. An assessment indicates good progress, with the roadmap being maintained. RKC compliance is expected to enhance Guatemala's trade competitiveness and enable it to embrace global opportunities. This initiative focuses on trade facilitation and utilizes customs assistance to ensure successful RKC implementation, ultimately benefiting Guatemala's integration into the global trading system.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nestls Palm Oil Policy at Odds with RSPO Standards

Nestls Palm Oil Policy at Odds with RSPO Standards

Nestlé's suspension from RSPO due to disagreements over sustainable palm oil standards has raised questions about the effectiveness of palm oil certification. Nestlé argues that its sustainability measures exceed RSPO standards and questions the limitations of its certification system. This dispute highlights the challenges companies face in pursuing sustainability, balancing industry standards with their own innovation, and truly achieving environmental and social responsibility. The case underscores the need for a more robust and adaptable approach to sustainability in the palm oil industry.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Air Cargo Pallet Standards Key Dimensions and Compliance

Global Air Cargo Pallet Standards Key Dimensions and Compliance

International air cargo pallet standardization is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive and in-depth analysis and practical advice on dimensions and specifications (ISO standards, regional differences, ULD containers), weight and height restrictions (narrow-body aircraft, wide-body aircraft), packaging reinforcement (uniform distribution, wrapping and securing), and compliance requirements (IPPC marking, quarantine certificates). It aims to facilitate safe and efficient international air transportation.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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EU Toy Exporters Must Comply With EN71 Safety Standards

EU Toy Exporters Must Comply With EN71 Safety Standards

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the EU toy safety standard EN71, detailing its core standard modules, certification process, compliance key points, and common misconceptions. It also compares EN71 with standards in other markets. Furthermore, it offers practical compliance recommendations for toy exporting companies, helping them mitigate trade risks and successfully enter the EU market. This guidance aims to assist companies in navigating the complexities of EN71 and ensuring their products meet the required safety standards for sale within the European Union.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Updates Kyoto Convention to Modernize Global Customs Standards

WCO Updates Kyoto Convention to Modernize Global Customs Standards

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is leading a comprehensive review of the Revised Kyoto Convention, aiming to build a “Future Customs” model adapted to the 21st century. This revision addresses emerging challenges such as digital trade and supply chain risks, while promoting trade facilitation. Through intelligent regulation, data-driven decision-making, risk management orientation, and collaborative partnerships, the goal is to achieve intelligent, efficient, and collaborative customs supervision, contributing to global trade development. The revised convention seeks to modernize customs procedures and enhance global trade security.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EU and UK Tighten Flammability Standards for Childrens Sleepwear

EU and UK Tighten Flammability Standards for Childrens Sleepwear

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the flame retardant testing standards for children's sleepwear (up to 14 years old) in the EU and UK markets. It focuses on the EN 14878 standard and the requirements of the UK's 'Nightwear (Safety) Regulations'. The importance of essential information on product detail pages and compliance documentation is also emphasized. The aim is to help manufacturers and retailers ensure their products comply with relevant regulations and safeguard children's safety.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Togo Customs AEO Program Boosts Trade Meets Global Standards

Togo Customs AEO Program Boosts Trade Meets Global Standards

Togo, with WCO support, is developing an AEO program to enhance trade facilitation. It faces challenges in compliance, regulation, and mutual recognition. The goal is to become a trade hub in West Africa. The AEO program aims to streamline customs procedures, reduce inspection rates for trusted traders, and improve overall efficiency in the supply chain. Success will depend on effective implementation and collaboration with regional and international partners. This initiative is crucial for Togo's economic growth and competitiveness.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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