West and Central Africa Boost Customs Modernization Via Regional Cooperation

West and Central Africa Boost Customs Modernization Via Regional Cooperation

The 6th Regional Working Group Meeting of Human Resources and Training Managers of Customs in West and Central Africa in 2016 focused on regional cooperation to accelerate the modernization of customs human resources. The meeting emphasized experience sharing, regional synergy, and the importance of the WCO-WACAM project. Participating countries actively sought project support and discussed key issues such as digital transformation, performance management, leadership development, and talent retention, aiming to jointly build the future of customs in West and Central Africa. The discussions highlighted the need for collaborative efforts and shared strategies.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Ghana Customs Data Modernization Push

WCO Backs Ghana Customs Data Modernization Push

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, provides strategic planning support to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), focusing on data-driven modernization. The mission includes assessing the GRA's strategic plan compliance, addressing customs reform and modernization issues, and enhancing monitoring, evaluation, and project management capabilities. Emphasizing the crucial role of data in customs modernization, recommendations include establishing a data warehouse, developing data analysis tools, and formulating data-driven performance indicators. The project aims to transform GRA into a more efficient and effective organization through strategic planning and data utilization.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Explores Streamlining Trade Under GATT Rules

WTO Explores Streamlining Trade Under GATT Rules

This paper analyzes several measures proposed by the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu to improve the implementation of GATT Articles VIII and X, including advance clearance, risk management, express clearance, advance tariff classification rulings, and single window services. Combining international practices and expert opinions, it assesses the feasibility and potential impact of these measures. The study offers further recommendations aimed at promoting trade facilitation, enhancing customs efficiency, and reducing operational costs for businesses. The goal is to streamline processes and improve overall trade competitiveness.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EU and Taiwan Advocate Ending Preshipment Inspections to Ease Trade

EU and Taiwan Advocate Ending Preshipment Inspections to Ease Trade

The EU and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu submitted a proposal to the WTO advocating for the phased elimination of pre-shipment inspection (PSI) by all members to facilitate trade. The proposal outlines differentiated timelines for members based on their development levels, emphasizing transitional arrangements and technical assistance. Eliminating PSI is expected to reduce trade costs and improve efficiency. However, it also highlights the importance of customs capacity building and risk management to ensure smooth trade flows and prevent potential abuses after PSI removal.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Adopts Datadriven Customs for Digital Shift

Global Trade Adopts Datadriven Customs for Digital Shift

International Customs Day 2022 focused on data-driven customs digitalization. This report explores the construction of a data ecosystem, emphasizing data culture and the importance of data quality. It analyzes the leading role of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in promoting data sharing and collaboration among customs administrations. The report highlights how leveraging data can enhance trade facilitation, improve risk management, and ultimately contribute to more efficient and secure global trade flows. It also discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with building a robust and sustainable data ecosystem for customs.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Port of Long Beach Appoints Noel Hacegaba As CEO Starting 2026

Port of Long Beach Appoints Noel Hacegaba As CEO Starting 2026

The Long Beach Harbor Commission announced Noel Hacegaba will succeed Mario Cordero as CEO on January 1, 2026. Cordero is retiring. Hacegaba brings 15 years of port management experience, previously serving as COO, overseeing daily port operations. He has spearheaded numerous commercial transactions, advanced supply chain digitization, and held key roles in intermodal organizations. Stakeholders express optimism about his appointment, anticipating he will lead the Port of Long Beach in addressing challenges and achieving sustainable growth. His experience and leadership are expected to be crucial for the port's future success.

01/15/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Ecommerce Sellers Optimize Air Freight Booking for Global Trade

Ecommerce Sellers Optimize Air Freight Booking for Global Trade

This article analyzes the four key factors affecting international air freight booking time for cross-border e-commerce sellers: cargo type, route type, shipping season, and route popularity. It provides specific booking time recommendations for different situations. The importance of completing formalities in advance, paying attention to flight frequency, and choosing a reliable freight forwarder is also emphasized. This guide aims to help sellers master time management and ensure smooth cargo transportation. By understanding these factors and implementing the suggested strategies, sellers can optimize their logistics and avoid potential delays.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Amazon Opens Shenzhen Hub to Boost Crossborder Ecommerce

Amazon Opens Shenzhen Hub to Boost Crossborder Ecommerce

Amazon's Global Smart Hub Warehouse (GWD) has launched its first warehouse in Shenzhen, marking a new era for cross-border e-commerce logistics. GWD optimizes warehousing, customs clearance, and transportation to reduce costs and shorten delivery times, reshaping the industry landscape. For sellers, it's crucial to adjust strategies and embrace centralized management and intelligent allocation. For the industry, logistics efficiency becomes a key competitive factor for platforms. Consumers will benefit from a more convenient and high-quality global shopping experience. This initiative promises to streamline operations and enhance the overall e-commerce ecosystem.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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American Signature Bankruptcy Leaves Chinese Suppliers Unpaid

American Signature Bankruptcy Leaves Chinese Suppliers Unpaid

The bankruptcy of ASI, a long-established American furniture retailer, exposes challenges including high inflation, high interest rates, and trade frictions, directly impacting Chinese furniture exporters. Suppliers like Man Wah are facing millions of dollars in credit risk, highlighting the risks faced by export companies. Experts recommend that companies review contracts, strengthen risk management, and explore diversified markets to cope with the challenges posed by the global economic downturn and trade frictions. This situation underscores the need for proactive strategies to mitigate potential financial losses and maintain business stability.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Qatar Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Review

Qatar Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Review

Qatar Customs invited the World Customs Organization (WCO) for a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic to enhance trade facilitation. WCO experts conducted an in-depth assessment of Qatar Customs' departments and offered recommendations for improvement. PCA, recognized as an efficient control method, is crucial for trade facilitation, revenue protection, and risk management. This initiative by Qatar Customs will promote corporate compliance, improve trade efficiency, and contribute to global trade facilitation efforts. The focus on PCA highlights Qatar's commitment to modernizing customs procedures and fostering a more efficient and secure trading environment.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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