Saudi Arabia Hosts WCO Seminar on Trade Facilitation Reforms

Saudi Arabia Hosts WCO Seminar on Trade Facilitation Reforms

The WCO held a workshop in Saudi Arabia focusing on Advance Ruling systems in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The workshop aimed to assist the region in fulfilling WTO agreements, improving trade efficiency, and promoting trade facilitation. The event highlighted the importance of advance rulings in providing predictability and transparency for traders, ultimately contributing to increased regional trade and economic growth. Discussions centered on best practices, challenges, and opportunities for enhancing advance ruling systems within the MENA region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Egypt Boosts Customs Skills Via WTO Training Program

Egypt Boosts Customs Skills Via WTO Training Program

The World Customs Organization and the Commercial Law Development Program jointly held a customs valuation workshop in Cairo to enhance Egyptian customs officials' understanding and application of the WTO's Customs Valuation Agreement. The workshop covered a review of the agreement's principles, analysis of key technical issues, sharing of US customs experiences, and practical case studies. This initiative aims to support Egypt in building an efficient and transparent customs valuation system, ultimately promoting trade facilitation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Jordan Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

Jordan Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

The Jordan Customs Valuation Workshop, jointly organized by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Customs Cooperation Fund Germany (CCF Germany), aimed to enhance the understanding and application of the Customs Valuation Agreement among Jordanian customs officials. Through theoretical learning and case studies, participants delved into key issues such as the transaction value principle and alternative valuation methods. This initiative laid the foundation for Jordan to build a fair and transparent international trade environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Boosts Customs Efficiency to Streamline Trade

Moldova Boosts Customs Efficiency to Streamline Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Customs Valuation workshop in Moldova to enhance the country's customs expertise in customs valuation and promote trade facilitation. The workshop covered topics such as the application of the WTO Valuation Agreement, the establishment and utilization of valuation databases, the valuation of second-hand goods, the treatment of assistance and license fees, and the advance ruling system. This provided valuable learning opportunities for Moldovan customs officials.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) are scheduled to resume negotiations to proactively address contract extensions and prevent future freight congestion at West Coast ports. These talks are critical to global trade stability. Key negotiation points are expected to include wages and benefits, automation, job security, and contract duration. The outcome will directly impact shippers' supply chain efficiency and costs, making a timely agreement essential to avoid disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed negotiations to avert a potential port strike on January 15th. Automation remains a central point of contention in the talks. Failure to reach an agreement could significantly disrupt global supply chains, impacting trade and potentially leading to economic consequences. The outcome of these labor negotiations is crucial for maintaining the stability and efficiency of port operations across the United States.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Backing Automation

US East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Backing Automation

A new six-year labor agreement has been reached between port labor and management on the US East and Gulf Coasts, averting potential supply chain disruptions. The agreement includes record wage increases and automation protections. It has garnered widespread support from both ILA members and USMX members, providing a significant boost to the stability of the US economy. This deal ensures continued operations and avoids costly delays, offering reassurance to businesses reliant on efficient port activity. The agreement addresses key concerns regarding technological advancements and worker security.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Asiapacific Nations Boost Customs Cooperation at WCO Meeting

Asiapacific Nations Boost Customs Cooperation at WCO Meeting

The 32nd WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Contact Points Meeting was held in Australia, focusing on regional cooperation, strategic planning, and WCO policy updates. The meeting highlighted the importance of data strategy, green customs, and technology application. The aim is to strengthen customs cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, address global challenges, and promote trade security and facilitation. Discussions centered around enhancing information sharing, capacity building, and the implementation of international standards to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations across the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Russias Neftekamsk Airport Expands Global Connectivity

Russias Neftekamsk Airport Expands Global Connectivity

Neftekamsk Airport is a significant aviation hub in the Russian Federation, connecting the regional economy to the world with its unique codes, NEF and UWUF. It carries the dreams and hopes of people and is expected to develop further in the future, improve services, and expand routes. This will bring a more convenient travel experience for passengers and promote cultural exchange and trade cooperation. The airport plays a crucial role in facilitating regional connectivity and economic growth within Russia and beyond.

01/20/2026 Airport Codes
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