WCO Workshop Advances Digital Customs Reform in West and Central Africa

WCO Workshop Advances Digital Customs Reform in West and Central Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a data analysis workshop for the West and Central Africa region, aiming to enhance the data analysis capabilities of customs administrations in the region. The workshop introduced the WCO's Big Data Strategy, shared member experiences, and updated participants on the latest developments in WCO capacity building. Participants highly appreciated the event and expressed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation to jointly promote the regional digital transformation of customs.

WTO WCO Aid Cape Verde in Customs Reform to Enhance Trade

WTO WCO Aid Cape Verde in Customs Reform to Enhance Trade

The WCO-WACAM project assists Cape Verde in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through support for measures categorization assessment and Time Release Study (TRS), it aims to simplify customs clearance processes, reduce trade costs, and improve trade efficiency. The project not only enhances Cape Verde's compliance capabilities but also provides valuable experience for other developing countries, jointly promoting global trade facilitation. This initiative is crucial for boosting economic growth and competitiveness in Cape Verde by streamlining trade procedures and reducing associated costs.

Gambia Advances Tax Reform with WCO to Boost West African Standards

Gambia Advances Tax Reform with WCO to Boost West African Standards

With the support of the WCO, the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has initiated strategic management reforms aimed at enhancing organizational project management capabilities and strategic monitoring and evaluation frameworks. This collaboration aims to position the GRA as a strategic management role model in West Africa, ultimately increasing fiscal revenue and promoting economic development. The reforms focus on building internal capacity and establishing robust mechanisms for tracking progress and ensuring accountability in achieving strategic objectives. The expected outcome is a more efficient and effective revenue collection system.

Gambias Customs Reform Gains WCO Backing for West African Talent Hub

Gambias Customs Reform Gains WCO Backing for West African Talent Hub

The WCO is supporting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in upgrading its human resources management. This initiative pioneers competency-based HRM in West and Central Africa, aiming to establish a regional hub for talent. The project focuses on developing skills and capabilities within the GRA, ultimately enhancing its operational efficiency and effectiveness. By implementing modern HR practices, the GRA aims to attract, retain, and develop a highly skilled workforce, contributing to improved revenue collection and overall economic development in the region.

US Senate Passes STB Reform Bill to Boost Freight Rail Efficiency

US Senate Passes STB Reform Bill to Boost Freight Rail Efficiency

The U.S. Senate passed the Surface Transportation Board (STB) Reauthorization Act of 2015, aiming to enhance the STB's regulatory efficiency and dispute resolution capabilities, revitalizing the U.S. rail freight system. The bill focuses on dispute resolution, proactive regulation, and organizational structure optimization. While widely welcomed, railroad freight reform still faces challenges and requires collaboration from all stakeholders. The act seeks to modernize oversight and address concerns regarding service and rates within the freight rail industry, potentially impacting shippers and carriers alike.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Crossborder Ecommerce Gains Edge in Online Marketplaces

Crossborder Ecommerce Gains Edge in Online Marketplaces

This article analyzes the current situation and trends of cross-border e-commerce, pointing out the fading dividends of traditional e-commerce platforms and the challenges faced by independent website models. The rise of e-commerce platforms owned by European and American offline retailers presents new opportunities for cross-border e-commerce sellers. The article elaborates on the strategies, advantages, risks, and challenges of embracing these retailer-owned e-commerce platforms, providing practical guidance for sellers. It explores how sellers can leverage these new channels for growth and success in the evolving e-commerce landscape.

Trucking Industry Seeks US Safety Rating System Reform Over Bias Data Issues

Trucking Industry Seeks US Safety Rating System Reform Over Bias Data Issues

The US freight safety rating system faces criticism regarding geographical bias, data quality, and evaluation methodologies. Industry associations like ATA are urging the FMCSA to reform the system, aiming for a more equitable and reliable safety rating mechanism. This reform seeks to avoid the shortcomings of CSA/SMS and enhance overall road safety. The current system's flaws potentially lead to inaccurate assessments and unfair consequences for carriers, highlighting the need for a modernized approach that accurately reflects safety performance and promotes proactive safety improvements throughout the industry.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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China-mongolia's Largest Land Port Successfully Launches the

China-mongolia's Largest Land Port Successfully Launches the "three Mutuals" Major Customs Reform

On November 19, the Erenhot Port launched the first phase of the "three mutuals" cross-border reform pilot, marking the success of Inner Mongolia's first pilot project. This reform aims to simplify customs procedures, enhance efficiency, and achieve one-stop operations through customs and inspection cooperation. The establishment of a joint inspection center will significantly reduce customs clearance times, providing new opportunities for regional economic development and China-Mongolia trade.

China Deregulates Rail Freight Prices to Cut Logistics Costs

China Deregulates Rail Freight Prices to Cut Logistics Costs

China's National Development and Reform Commission is expanding market-based pricing for railway freight. Prices for some freight services will now be determined by market supply and demand, leading to potential price fluctuations. Businesses will have more choices, and market competition will intensify. Railway companies are required to regulate their pricing practices and protect consumer rights. This reform aims to improve efficiency and responsiveness to market demands, potentially impacting overall logistics costs.

09/26/2025 Logistics
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