New Zealand Aims to Streamline Trade with Clearer Customs Rules

New Zealand Aims to Streamline Trade with Clearer Customs Rules

New Zealand submitted a proposal to the WTO aimed at promoting objectivity and transparency in tariff classification, avoiding arbitrary classifications and hidden trade restrictions. The proposal emphasizes classification based on the Harmonized System (HS) and focuses on the capacity-building needs of developing countries, suggesting the establishment of a horizontal mechanism to address their specific issues. This proposal is of great significance for promoting fair trade and global economic development. It seeks to ensure consistent and predictable application of tariff classifications, fostering a more transparent and equitable global trading environment.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Adopt Digital Tools Under WCO Guidance

Asiapacific Customs Adopt Digital Tools Under WCO Guidance

The WCO Asia-Pacific region launched a workshop on sharing experiences with disruptive technologies, focusing on the application of technologies such as blockchain, AI, and IoT in the customs field. Discussions covered public-private partnerships, data pipelines, and risk management, while emphasizing the role of international standards in achieving interoperability and paperless trade. The workshop provided valuable recommendations for the digital transformation of Asia-Pacific customs, aiming to build a secure, efficient, and intelligent global trade ecosystem. It highlighted the potential of these technologies to revolutionize customs operations and facilitate trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sri Lanka Boosts Nuclear Detection at Customs Via RANDA Training

Sri Lanka Boosts Nuclear Detection at Customs Via RANDA Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy, conducted a RANDA Project national training in Sri Lanka. This training aimed to enhance the capacity of customs officers to respond to nuclear and radiological threats. The curriculum covered risk awareness, detection skills, legal frameworks, transport security, and risk management. The training also included site visits to further improve the professional capabilities of customs personnel and strengthen nuclear security levels in Sri Lanka. This initiative is crucial for safeguarding against illicit trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Adopts HS Codes for Green Equipment Tracking

Global Trade Adopts HS Codes for Green Equipment Tracking

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a series of workshops exploring the use of the Harmonized System (HS) to support environmentally sustainable trade. The workshops focused on the challenges and opportunities in identifying green technologies, incorporating perspectives from the EU, APEC, BIR, IRENA, and industry representatives. The aim was to promote the green transformation of the HS, facilitate trade in environmentally friendly machinery and equipment, and address classification challenges in the circular economy. The discussions highlighted the importance of accurate HS codes for promoting green trade initiatives and achieving environmental sustainability goals.

02/12/2026 HS Code Query
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Glow Glove Patent Lawsuit Freezes Assets at 42 Stores

Glow Glove Patent Lawsuit Freezes Assets at 42 Stores

An anonymous patent infringement lawsuit filed by Bright Hand LLC regarding glow gloves resulted in a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) freezing assets of 42 stores. The case involves issues of patent ownership transfer, product design features, and the strategy of anonymous litigation. The targeted stores should actively respond to the lawsuit to avoid further losses. This event raises concerns about intellectual property protection and fair market competition. It highlights the complexities and potential impact of patent disputes, particularly when anonymity is involved, on businesses and the broader market.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Amazon Optimizes Mothers Day Sales with Strategic Product Selection

Amazon Optimizes Mothers Day Sales with Strategic Product Selection

This article explores Amazon product selection strategies for Mother's Day, emphasizing the 'broad keyword selection method' and the importance of innovation. It reflects on the definition of 'practical tips' in e-commerce operations and introduces the concept of 'Dumpling Economics,' encouraging sellers to achieve product premium through innovation and refined operations. The article also highlights the importance of reflection and growth, as well as embracing imagination in e-commerce operations. Ultimately, it advocates for a creative and thoughtful approach to maximize sales and brand value during the Mother's Day season.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Thrasio Bankruptcy Signals Trouble for Amazon Aggregators

Thrasio Bankruptcy Signals Trouble for Amazon Aggregators

The bankruptcy of Amazon aggregator Thrasio reveals issues such as over-reliance on financing and operational deficiencies. Cross-border e-commerce businesses need to return to the fundamentals of commerce and focus on refined operations to meet challenges. Thrasio's failure highlights the importance of sustainable growth and efficient management rather than solely relying on external funding. This case serves as a cautionary tale for businesses pursuing similar aggregation models within the Amazon marketplace, emphasizing the need for robust operational strategies and a strong understanding of the underlying business fundamentals.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic declined year-over-year in the week ending August 19th. Carload traffic saw a slight decrease of 0.6%, while intermodal traffic fell more sharply by 4.6%. Year-to-date figures show a marginal increase of 0.2% in carload traffic but a significant decrease of 9.2% in intermodal traffic. Experts suggest that rail freight faces both challenges and opportunities. They emphasize the need to focus on growth areas arising from economic restructuring and upgrading, as well as strengthening technological innovation and collaboration.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Rail Industry Grapples With Safety Labor and Sustainability Pressures

Rail Industry Grapples With Safety Labor and Sustainability Pressures

Leaders from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) addressed key issues such as railroad safety, labor relations, and operations at the RailTrends conference. The discussion included progress in labor negotiations, the need for railroad safety legislation, and the advantages of short line railroads in customer service. The article analyzes these points and offers a glimpse into the future direction of the railroad industry, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation for sustained growth and improved safety across the network.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Surge Points to Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Surge Points to Economic Recovery

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending July 24th. Significant growth was seen in the transportation of coal and metallic ores, while volumes of motor vehicles & parts and farm products declined. The substantial increase in cumulative freight volume over the first 29 weeks of 2021 indicates that rail transportation is playing a vital role in the U.S. economic recovery. Total carloads and intermodal units reflect a positive trend in freight activity.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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