EUWCO Project Boosts African Free Trade with Rules Harmonization

EUWCO Project Boosts African Free Trade with Rules Harmonization

The EU-WTO Rules of Origin Africa Programme will significantly contribute to finalizing the AfCFTA's Rules of Origin by 2025. This initiative aims to harmonize key origin systems across Africa, fostering a unified approach to trade regulations. By promoting a community of practice focused on origin-related issues, the project supports the broader goal of African economic integration. Ultimately, streamlining and standardizing Rules of Origin will reduce trade barriers and facilitate smoother trade flows within the AfCFTA, boosting economic growth and development across the continent.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Japans Real Wages Fall Sharply As Inflation Persists

Japans Real Wages Fall Sharply As Inflation Persists

Japan's real wages plummeted in November, marking the largest drop this year, highlighting the continued erosion of household purchasing power under inflationary pressure. The Bank of Japan faces a dilemma between raising interest rates and stimulating the economy, making the spring wage negotiations crucial. Experts suggest that the government, businesses, and the central bank should work together through flexible monetary policy, proactive fiscal policy, and structural reforms to address the challenges and achieve sustainable economic growth. The collaborative effort is seen as essential to navigate the current economic complexities.

01/30/2026 Exchange Rate Query
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Trucking Industry Weighs Safety Vs Efficiency in Hours Rules

Trucking Industry Weighs Safety Vs Efficiency in Hours Rules

The revision of the U.S. Hours of Service (HOS) regulations for truck drivers is a sensitive issue for the logistics industry. Safety advocates argue for shorter working hours to ensure safety, while transportation companies prefer maintaining the status quo for efficiency. The new rules impact truck drivers' schedules, transportation costs, and even the final price of goods. The future of HOS may involve more intelligent and personalized regulations, seeking a balance between safety and efficiency. This ongoing debate highlights the complexities of regulating a vital industry.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Lianyungangrotterdam Shipping Routes Optimized for Efficiency

Lianyungangrotterdam Shipping Routes Optimized for Efficiency

This article provides a detailed analysis of the sea route from Lianyungang to Rotterdam, comparing the Suez Canal and Panama Canal routes. It analyzes transportation time and influencing factors, and introduces the characteristics of Lianyungang Port and Rotterdam Port. Addressing frequently asked questions, the article aims to help you choose the most economical and efficient shipping solution for global trade. The comparison focuses on advantages and disadvantages of each route to optimize shipping decisions.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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WCOJICA Initiative Strengthens Customs Trade in East and Southern Africa

WCOJICA Initiative Strengthens Customs Trade in East and Southern Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), successfully held the 3rd Working Group Activity of the Advanced Rules of Origin Trainers Project for the East and Southern Africa region in Zambia. This project aims to cultivate qualified customs trainers, enhance regional customs capacity, and facilitate the smooth implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Through systematic training and curriculum development, the project will provide a solid foundation of skilled personnel for regional trade facilitation.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Oakland Port Reopens As AB5 Protests Supply Chain Issues Persist

Oakland Port Reopens As AB5 Protests Supply Chain Issues Persist

The Port of Oakland has fully reopened after trucker protests against AB5, but faces challenges in returning to normal operations. The port has committed to improving communication, providing resources, and establishing a working group to collaborate with truckers and state government. These efforts aim to find solutions, rebuild trust, and maintain supply chain stability. While the port is operational, ongoing efforts are crucial to address the underlying concerns and prevent future disruptions.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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New US Trucking Rules May Reduce Capacity Analysts Say

New US Trucking Rules May Reduce Capacity Analysts Say

Proposed new Hours of Service (HOS) regulations for truck drivers in the US are raising industry concerns about potential capacity reductions and cost increases. The new rules, including shortened driving windows and reduced daily legal driving hours, are expected to significantly impact long-haul transportation. Experts are calling for a balance between safety and efficiency, suggesting companies optimize routes, improve loading and unloading efficiency, enhance driver training, and actively participate in industry associations to collectively address the challenges. The impact on overall freight capacity remains a key concern.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Long Beach Port Bets on Digitalization for Postrecovery Growth

Long Beach Port Bets on Digitalization for Postrecovery Growth

The Port of Long Beach is experiencing a rebound in throughput, with digitalization playing a crucial role. The port is enhancing data visibility through initiatives like the Supply Chain Information Highway and actively investing in infrastructure, particularly expanding rail capacity. Despite macroeconomic uncertainties, the Port of Long Beach remains cautiously optimistic about the future, projecting that 2023 throughput will exceed pre-pandemic levels. These digital advancements are vital to maintaining competitiveness and handling increased cargo volume efficiently.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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EUWCO Project Seeks to Simplify African Trade with Uniform Rules

EUWCO Project Seeks to Simplify African Trade with Uniform Rules

The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme is expected to significantly contribute to the finalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Rules of Origin by 2025. It aims to promote the harmonization of key origin systems across Africa, build a community of practice for rules of origin, and facilitate African economic integration. The program's impact will be crucial for streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth within the continent by simplifying and standardizing rules related to product origin.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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