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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Cass Freight Index Rises Despite Economic Uncertainty

Cass Freight Index Rises Despite Economic Uncertainty

The July Cass Freight Index report shows continued year-over-year growth in both freight volume and expenditures, but a month-over-month decline. The report highlights key information such as e-commerce driving freight volume growth, rising fuel prices impacting freight expenditures, and a slowdown in rail transport. Logistics companies need to pay attention to market changes, embrace digital transformation, expand diversified services, strengthen risk management, and focus on sustainable development. The MoM decline warrants careful observation in the coming months to determine if it signals a broader economic shift.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending August 26th, U.S. rail carloads and intermodal units both declined year-over-year. Carload traffic increased for motor vehicles & parts, petroleum products, and nonmetallic minerals, but decreased significantly for coal and grain. Cumulative data for the first 34 weeks of the year indicates a slight increase in carloads, but a notable decrease in intermodal volume. The decline in rail freight suggests a potential economic slowdown, requiring businesses to adapt and be flexible in their supply chain management.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Shanghai Port Enhances Container Shipping Efficiency

Shanghai Port Enhances Container Shipping Efficiency

This article provides a detailed analysis of Shanghai Port's shipping container operation process, comparing it with Shenzhen Port. It elaborates on key aspects such as container entry and customs clearance time. Through specific case studies, it offers practical operational guidance and risk control advice for freight forwarding companies and foreign trade businesses, aiming to improve freight efficiency and reduce operating costs. The analysis focuses on streamlining processes and minimizing delays related to customs and container handling within the Shanghai port environment.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Freight Forwarding Challenges Damage Discrepancies Fees

Freight Forwarding Challenges Damage Discrepancies Fees

This article addresses common issues encountered by newcomers in freight forwarding, such as responsibility for container damage, discrepancies between bill of lading and customs declaration names, and EDI fees. It provides detailed analysis, solutions, and precautions to help beginners quickly grasp industry knowledge and enhance their professional skills. The guide aims to equip new freight forwarders with practical insights to navigate potential pitfalls and improve their operational efficiency, ensuring smoother and more successful transactions.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Costeffective Crossborder Ecommerce Logistics

Guide to Costeffective Crossborder Ecommerce Logistics

Choosing the right logistics partner is crucial for cross-border e-commerce sellers. This article details how to select the most suitable cross-border logistics solution based on your own situation, considering four dimensions: operational strength, cargo characteristics, target market, and peak/off-peak seasons. It aims to help sellers reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance competitiveness.

09/26/2025 Logistics
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Container Forklift Functionality and Design Features

Container Forklift Functionality and Design Features

Container forklifts are essential machinery used in container terminals and yards for the handling and loading of containers. Their excellent maneuverability and flexibility make them suitable for various operational environments. Equipped with high-strength forks and a well-designed cabin, they ensure operator visibility and safety. This makes them play a crucial role in the transfer and stacking of containers.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Ebay Sellers Face Challenges With Crossborder Customs Fees

Ebay Sellers Face Challenges With Crossborder Customs Fees

This article delves into the customs fee responsibility mechanism in eBay cross-border e-commerce, clarifying that buyers bear tariffs, taxes, and other additional fees. It emphasizes the seller's obligation to inform buyers about these potential costs. Furthermore, it warns sellers against risky practices such as false declarations and concealment, and suggests choosing compliant logistics and adhering to export regulations to achieve stable development in cross-border e-commerce business. Compliance and transparency are key to avoiding issues and ensuring a smooth transaction process.

01/04/2026 Customs Knowledge
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