WTO and WCO Sign Pact to Enhance Trade Security Facilitation

WTO and WCO Sign Pact to Enhance Trade Security Facilitation

The World Customs Organization and the World Trade Organization signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation on customs-related matters and enhance global trade efficiency and security. The two organizations will collaborate on technical assistance, information sharing, and combating illicit trade, with a focus on the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the application of coordination mechanisms. This partnership aims to address global trade challenges and promote sustainable development by fostering streamlined customs procedures and improved international collaboration in trade-related areas.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO IPPC Align Trade Facilitation with Plant Health Rules

WCO IPPC Align Trade Facilitation with Plant Health Rules

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) have signed a cooperation agreement to enhance plant health protection while facilitating trade, addressing the challenges of plant pest and disease spread in global trade. The collaboration will focus on areas such as electronic phytosanitary certificates, e-commerce, sea containers, single windows, information exchange, and advocacy. The goal is to build a global community for plant health security, ensuring safer and more efficient international trade while safeguarding plant resources from harmful pests and diseases.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Coast Port Labor Talks Progress Easing Long Beach Delays

West Coast Port Labor Talks Progress Easing Long Beach Delays

Labor negotiations on the US West Coast docks have seen a new development. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) have reached a tentative agreement on health benefits, offering hope for resolving the long-standing deadlock. However, key issues such as automation, wages, and job security remain unresolved, leaving uncertainty in the negotiation's future. The outcome of these negotiations will have a significant impact on the global supply chain and consumers, making it a situation worth monitoring closely.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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LA and Long Beach Ports Boost Supply Chain Green Efforts

LA and Long Beach Ports Boost Supply Chain Green Efforts

The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are strengthening their collaboration to address global trade challenges by updating their cooperation agreement. This focuses on supply chain logistics, gateway marketing, environmental sustainability, security, and legislative advocacy. Initiatives include the launch of a 'gray chassis pool' to improve container transportation efficiency and plans for a stakeholder summit to resolve freight challenges. The ports are also continuing to advance the Clean Air Action Plan, aiming to create a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and secure port complex.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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WCO Adopts Data Analytics to Boost Trade and Security

WCO Adopts Data Analytics to Boost Trade and Security

The 215th/216th sessions of the WCO's Permanent Technical Committee focused on the application of data analysis in customs, highlighting its importance in trade facilitation, supply chain security, and e-commerce regulation. Discussions covered the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, integrated supply chain management, future technology applications, and customs-tax cooperation. The aim was to enhance the regulatory and service capabilities of customs administrations and promote global trade development. This involved exploring how data-driven insights can optimize processes and improve efficiency within customs operations.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact to Avoid Disruptions

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact to Avoid Disruptions

A six-year labor agreement has been reached at 36 ports along the US East and Gulf Coasts, ensuring wage increases and automation protections, bringing stability to the supply chain. This collaboration between the International Longshoremen's Association and the United States Maritime Alliance avoids the risk of strikes while laying the groundwork for port modernization and future development. This agreement is crucial for maintaining smooth operations and preventing disruptions in the vital maritime transportation network.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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UPS Teamsters Strike Deal to Raise Wages Avoid Strike

UPS Teamsters Strike Deal to Raise Wages Avoid Strike

UPS and the Teamsters union have reached a tentative five-year agreement aimed at improving employee wages and benefits, and fostering better labor relations. The new contract promises significant wage increases, improved treatment for part-time employees, and greater union influence in the face of technological changes. UPS hopes to win back lost customers and solidify its industry position with this agreement. However, the company still faces cost pressures and market fluctuations.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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IATA Accreditation Guide for Cargo Agents in St Martin

IATA Accreditation Guide for Cargo Agents in St Martin

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the mandatory and optional requirements for applying for IATA freight forwarding accreditation in St. Maarten. It covers aspects such as the accreditation application, company registration documents, bank guarantee, professional qualification certificates, financial contact information, financial standards agreement, financial statements, office lease agreement, and tax identification number. Furthermore, it offers strategies for successfully obtaining IATA accreditation and emphasizes the significant value of IATA accreditation for freight forwarding companies.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Global Airline Group IATA Enhances Data Security with New Exchange Program

Global Airline Group IATA Enhances Data Security with New Exchange Program

The IATA Flight Data Exchange Program aims to provide airlines with an industry-leading flight schedule and MCT database, reducing data dependency risks. Participation and data access are free, supporting data-driven decision-making and governed collaboratively by the industry. The program involves three steps: signing an agreement, sharing data, and receiving data. This helps airlines improve operational efficiency and data security. It offers a centralized, reliable source of flight data, enhancing planning and reducing reliance on potentially vulnerable or outdated sources. The program promotes better data quality and industry collaboration.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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