WCO Updates PICARD Standards to Modernize Customs Training

WCO Updates PICARD Standards to Modernize Customs Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of the PICARD Professional Standards to adapt to the rapidly evolving global trade landscape. The revised standards will focus on public-private partnerships, customs-tax linkages, coordinated border management, and cover emerging trends such as security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. This upgrade aims to cultivate forward-thinking and practically skilled customs professionals, ultimately fostering global trade development. The updated standards will ensure customs administrations are equipped to meet future challenges and opportunities.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde WCO Launch Trade Efficiency Study

Cape Verde WCO Launch Trade Efficiency Study

With support from the WCO-WACAM project, Cape Verde Customs is preparing its first Time Release Study (TRS) to identify bottlenecks, optimize customs procedures, and enhance trade competitiveness. Through WCO expert workshops and public-private partnership action plans, Cape Verde aims to fulfill the Trade Facilitation Agreement, establishing an efficient and transparent customs system to promote economic development. The TRS will provide valuable data for informed decision-making and targeted reforms, ultimately streamlining the flow of goods and boosting Cape Verde's participation in global trade.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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REI Opens Sustainable Distribution Hub Setting Retail Logistics Standard

REI Opens Sustainable Distribution Hub Setting Retail Logistics Standard

REI's sustainable distribution center in Arizona blends innovative technology and design for efficient operations, environmental protection, and social responsibility. As the first distribution facility in the US to achieve both LEED Platinum and Net-Zero Energy certifications, it sets a new standard for the retail logistics industry. The center showcases REI's commitment to sustainability by incorporating features like solar power, water conservation, and waste reduction. This project demonstrates that environmentally conscious practices can coexist with operational excellence and contribute to a more sustainable future for retail.

01/21/2026 Warehousing
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WCO Aids Gabon in Curbing Illegal Wildlife Trade

WCO Aids Gabon in Curbing Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a CITES-Framework Action Plan training in Gabon, aimed at enhancing the capacity of African customs officers to combat illegal wildlife trade. Hosted by the Gabonese Customs Administration, the training involved representatives from multiple countries, focusing on discussing challenges and sharing experiences. The U.S. Department of State funded the training. The WCO-INAMA project is dedicated to protecting Africa's biodiversity through training and cooperation. This initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in tackling wildlife crime and strengthening customs enforcement efforts.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Revenue Authority Advances Tax Modernization with Talent Initiative

Lesotho Revenue Authority Advances Tax Modernization with Talent Initiative

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) is actively implementing a competency-based human resource management system to enhance operational efficiency and tax collection capabilities. Supported by the World Customs Organization through the EPCB-HRMP project, the initiative aims to assist LRA in building a strategic HR management system. This system focuses on aligning talent with roles, ultimately contributing to LRA's modernization goals. This endeavor offers valuable lessons and best practices for other African tax administrations seeking to modernize their HR practices and improve overall performance.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nigeria Customs Adopts WCO System to Boost Trade Efficiency

Nigeria Customs Adopts WCO System to Boost Trade Efficiency

With WCO support, the Nigeria Customs Service upgraded its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) system, strengthening risk management, optimizing trader segmentation, and supporting the implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. This initiative aims to enhance trade efficiency and promote economic prosperity. Emphasizing data-driven customs management, the project offers valuable lessons for other developing countries looking to modernize their customs operations and improve trade facilitation measures. The focus on risk-based approaches and data analysis is key to achieving tangible improvements in customs performance.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bnsfs 15B Barstow Hub to Transform US Supply Chains

Bnsfs 15B Barstow Hub to Transform US Supply Chains

BNSF Railway is investing $1.5 billion in the Barstow International Gateway in Southern California to improve U.S. supply chain efficiency, reduce port congestion, and create jobs. This facility will enable the direct transfer of goods between ships and trains, enhancing overall logistics efficiency. It aims to streamline the flow of goods and alleviate bottlenecks within the supply chain by providing a seamless intermodal connection. The project represents a significant investment in infrastructure designed to modernize and optimize the movement of freight across the country.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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WCO Data Model Enhances Crossborder Ecommerce Security

WCO Data Model Enhances Crossborder Ecommerce Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Data Model Project Team (DMPT) emphasizes the crucial role of data in building a secure and efficient cross-border e-commerce environment and released the new WCO Data Model 3.7.0. The meeting focused on data standardization, information sharing, and data exchange related to e-commerce, aiming to improve risk management and customs clearance efficiency. This contributes to a safer and more efficient future for cross-border e-commerce by promoting harmonized data standards and facilitating seamless information flow between stakeholders.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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NCR Enhances Global Supply Chain Transparency Cuts Costs

NCR Enhances Global Supply Chain Transparency Cuts Costs

Global technology leader NCR Corporation built robust landed cost analysis capabilities and achieved transparent global supply chain management by implementing an in-transit visibility project. This paper delves into NCR's transformation journey, sharing its experience in demand analysis, system implementation, and benefit realization. It offers valuable insights for companies seeking to optimize their global supply chains, providing a useful reference for improving efficiency and reducing costs through enhanced visibility and data-driven decision-making. The project's success highlights the importance of proactive supply chain management.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Prologis Reports Rising Demand in Logistics Real Estate Sector

Prologis Reports Rising Demand in Logistics Real Estate Sector

The Prologis IBI Index indicates a rebound in logistics real estate demand, with net absorption, new leasing signings, and project pipelines exceeding expectations. Large enterprises and e-commerce are driving growth, while intelligentization, sustainability, and customization are emerging trends. Vacancy rates are expected to remain stable in the short term. However, the market is projected to tighten again in the long run, potentially leading to accelerated rental growth. The index highlights a positive shift in market dynamics and anticipates continued expansion in the logistics sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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