West Africa Customs Adopts Gender Equality to Boost Trade

West Africa Customs Adopts Gender Equality to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is implementing a Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) capacity-building project in West Africa. Through workshops, assessments, and action plans, the project aims to enhance the GED awareness and practical capabilities of customs administrations in countries like Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana. This initiative seeks to promote a more equitable, inclusive, and efficient customs system, ultimately facilitating trade and fostering economic development in the region. The project focuses on improving internal policies and practices within the customs administrations.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Central Asia Road Transport for Trade Growth

WCO Enhances Central Asia Road Transport for Trade Growth

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization emphasized the role of road transport in improving border 'soft infrastructure' at the International Road Transport Conference. He commended Central Asian countries for joining the revised Kyoto Convention. He called for strengthened public-private partnerships to enhance transport connectivity and contribute to the prosperity and development of the Central Asian region. This collaboration aims to streamline customs procedures and facilitate trade, ultimately boosting economic growth and regional integration through efficient and reliable road transport networks.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Trains Customs Officials to Fight Cultural Heritage Trafficking

WCO Trains Customs Officials to Fight Cultural Heritage Trafficking

The World Customs Organization (WCO) trained Customs officers from the Middle East and North Africa in Beirut to enhance their capacity to combat cultural property smuggling. The training covered key areas including identification of smuggled artifacts, international cooperation, relevant legal frameworks, and practical enforcement techniques. The aim was to equip officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively identify, seize, and prevent the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage items, thereby contributing to the protection of cultural heritage in the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Workshop Enhances IP Rights Protection in Latin America

WCO Workshop Enhances IP Rights Protection in Latin America

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an Intellectual Property (IP) seminar in Panama, aiming to enhance the capacity of Latin American customs authorities to combat counterfeit goods. The seminar focused on strategic implementation, regional collaboration, digital transformation, and practical exercises. These efforts are designed to lay the foundation for a new landscape of secure trade. The event emphasized the importance of coordinated actions in protecting intellectual property rights and preventing the trade of illicit goods across borders within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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PIL Adds Direct Mexico Call to West Coast South America Route

PIL Adds Direct Mexico Call to West Coast South America Route

Pacific International Lines (PIL) is upgrading its West Coast South America Service (WS6) by adding a direct call to Ensenada, Mexico. The Chilean terminal will be adjusted to San Antonio. This route optimization aims to enhance service efficiency and strengthen PIL's strategic position in the Latin American market. The upgrade is designed to cater to the increasing market demand in the region. The changes will improve connectivity and provide more reliable shipping options for customers trading between Asia and South America.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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US Electrical Makers Push for USMCA Enforcement Boost

US Electrical Makers Push for USMCA Enforcement Boost

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) urges the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to expedite the review and update of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). NEMA emphasizes the need for strengthened enforcement and increased predictability in trade rules to safeguard the competitiveness of the American electrical manufacturing industry and protect consumer interests. They believe a robust USMCA is crucial for maintaining a level playing field and ensuring fair trade practices within the North American region, ultimately benefiting both manufacturers and consumers.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Atome Exits China Raising BNPL Concerns in Southeast Asia

Atome Exits China Raising BNPL Concerns in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian BNPL platform Atome is suspected of exiting the Chinese market, primarily due to underperforming business volume. Despite partnerships with multiple service providers, the independent website model faced challenges in Southeast Asia, and high commissions deterred some sellers. This incident highlights the differences between the Southeast Asian market and those in Europe and the US. Companies need to carefully assess market risks and adjust their strategies accordingly. The case of Atome serves as a cautionary tale for businesses expanding into the region.

01/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Guide How to Create a US Apple ID for Global Apps

Guide How to Create a US Apple ID for Global Apps

This guide provides a detailed walkthrough on how to register for a US Apple ID, enabling users to easily access the US App Store and download a wider range of international apps and games. The article offers clear step-by-step instructions and important considerations to help users successfully complete the registration process and enjoy a richer digital experience. It simplifies the process, making it easy for anyone to create a US Apple ID and unlock access to region-specific content.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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NEMA Calls for Stricter USMCA Trade Enforcement

NEMA Calls for Stricter USMCA Trade Enforcement

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) urged a swift review and update of the USMCA at a USTR hearing, emphasizing stronger enforcement and improved policy predictability. NEMA highlighted that a clear and predictable trade environment is crucial for encouraging business investment and fostering innovation. The association hopes to establish transparent and efficient dispute resolution mechanisms through collaboration. They believe this will create a more stable and reliable framework for electrical manufacturers operating within the USMCA region, promoting economic growth and competitiveness.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pet Funeral Industry Grows As Owners Seek Memorials for Pets

Pet Funeral Industry Grows As Owners Seek Memorials for Pets

The pet funeral industry is experiencing rapid growth, emerging as a blue ocean market. Personalized keepsakes, digital services, and eco-friendly burial methods are constantly emerging to meet the growing emotional needs of pet owners. The Asia-Pacific region holds significant market potential. Differentiated products that combine emotional value, environmental attributes, and technological innovation will be key to market competition. The industry caters to the deep bond between pet owners and their beloved animals, offering solace and remembrance during times of grief.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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