WCO Seminar Focuses on Streamlining Crossborder Rail Freight

WCO Seminar Focuses on Streamlining Crossborder Rail Freight

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held the Asia-Pacific Railway Seminar, aiming to promote the implementation of the Railway Guidelines, simplify customs procedures for railway transportation, improve clearance efficiency, and reduce business costs. The seminar fostered communication and cooperation between customs authorities, railway departments, and international organizations from various countries, injecting new impetus into the development of cross-border railway freight in the Asia-Pacific region. The event highlighted the importance of streamlined processes and collaboration for efficient and cost-effective railway transport.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Central American Customs Boost Disaster Readiness with WCO Aid

Central American Customs Boost Disaster Readiness with WCO Aid

Members of the Central American Customs Council recently held an online seminar to enhance their capacity to handle relief supplies during natural disasters and other emergencies. The meeting reviewed current regulations, proposed strategic recommendations, and emphasized process digitalization and capacity building. They plan to develop a roadmap at the December meeting to build a more efficient regional disaster response system. The focus is on streamlining customs procedures to ensure rapid delivery of essential aid during crises, fostering greater cooperation and preparedness among member states.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Turkmenistan Modernizes Customs with Datadriven Trade Workshop

Turkmenistan Modernizes Customs with Datadriven Trade Workshop

Turkmenistan hosted a WCO Harmonized System (HS) national workshop aimed at improving the accuracy and efficiency of tariff classification through international cooperation and capacity building, thereby promoting trade facilitation and compliance. The workshop covered HS fundamentals, specific commodity classification, and pre-ruling guidance. It also explored future development directions such as intelligent classification, big data analysis, and risk management, assisting Turkmenistan in building a more efficient and intelligent tariff system. The goal is to enhance customs procedures and contribute to smoother international trade flows.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Boosts Namibias Anticounterfeiting Efforts in IP Program

WCO Boosts Namibias Anticounterfeiting Efforts in IP Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched its Intellectual Property Health and Safety (IPHS) Programme, with the first online training successfully held in Namibia. This initiative aims to enhance customs' ability to combat counterfeiting and piracy, particularly focusing on illicit medical goods during the pandemic. The WCO emphasizes customs' responsibility and provides tools to address these challenges. Funded by Japan Customs, the program seeks to strengthen international cooperation through information sharing, joint enforcement operations, capacity building, and public awareness campaigns, ultimately safeguarding global trade security.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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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Customs Key in Fighting Illegal Wildlife Trade CITES COP15 Insights

Customs Key in Fighting Illegal Wildlife Trade CITES COP15 Insights

The 15th meeting of the CITES Conference of the Parties highlighted the crucial role of customs in combating cross-border environmental crime. The WCO contributes to the protection of endangered species by raising awareness among customs officers, providing enforcement tools, and strengthening international cooperation. Data analysis reveals a persistently high violation rate, necessitating enhanced data-driven enforcement and technological innovation to build a global environmental security defense. Further efforts are needed to improve detection and prevention measures, fostering a collaborative approach to effectively combat illegal wildlife trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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DHL Extends ABX Air Partnership to Strengthen US Logistics

DHL Extends ABX Air Partnership to Strengthen US Logistics

DHL and ABX Air have renewed their partnership agreement for five years. ABX Air will continue providing aircraft and operational support for DHL's US international logistics network. Simultaneously, DHL signed a leasing agreement with ATSG, ABX Air's parent company, to expand its cargo fleet. This move aims to strengthen DHL's logistics capabilities in the United States, improve service quality, and provide long-term development opportunities for both parties. The extended cooperation ensures reliable air freight services for DHL's growing needs within the US market.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Maersk Hapaglloyd Form Gemini Alliance to Transform Shipping Industry

Maersk Hapaglloyd Form Gemini Alliance to Transform Shipping Industry

Global shipping giants Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have announced the "Gemini Cooperation," aiming to reshape global maritime transport by optimizing route networks and improving on-time performance. Singapore will serve as a crucial hub with approximately 40 weekly vessel calls. The network employs a hub-and-spoke model to enhance operational efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Initially, vessels will bypass the Red Sea due to security concerns, with adjustments planned based on future conditions. This collaboration signifies a move towards greater efficiency and sustainability within the global shipping industry.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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US Small Businesses Face Bankruptcy Amid Rising Tariffs

US Small Businesses Face Bankruptcy Amid Rising Tariffs

US small and medium-sized enterprise importers are facing a survival crisis due to tariffs. Surveys show that high tariffs severely impact corporate profitability, even leading to bankruptcy. While companies attempt to shift sourcing locations, the effect is limited, and policy uncertainty further exacerbates the situation. There are no winners in a tariff war; open cooperation is the path to mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. The impact is particularly pronounced on smaller businesses lacking the resources to absorb the increased costs or navigate complex supply chain adjustments.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trade Deficit Widens Amid Tariff Disputes Weak Investment

US Trade Deficit Widens Amid Tariff Disputes Weak Investment

Bloomberg predicts the US trade deficit will hit a record high in May, with the total deficit for the first five months far exceeding levels during the pandemic. A surge in exports from several Asian countries to the US is potentially linked to the temporary expiration of US 'reciprocal tariffs.' Uncertainty surrounding tariff policies has led to a decline in foreign investment inflows into the US. Economists warn this could hinder economic growth. The US needs to carefully consider its tariff policies and strengthen international cooperation to mitigate potential negative consequences.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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