Sudan Customs Overhauls HR to Boost Trade Efficiency

Sudan Customs Overhauls HR to Boost Trade Efficiency

With the assistance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Sudanese Customs has launched a Human Resources modernization project. This initiative aims to enhance the professionalism and efficiency of the customs workforce by establishing a competency-based management system. The goal is to better serve national economic development and international trade security. The project encompasses assessing the current management situation, developing practical tools, formulating a roadmap, and providing ongoing expert support. This comprehensive approach seeks to transform HR practices within Sudanese Customs.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Jamaica Customs Advances Strategic Plan with WCO Support

Jamaica Customs Advances Strategic Plan with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) in developing a three-year strategic plan. This plan aims to integrate customs reform, modernization, and trade facilitation measures. A workshop was held to build consensus and lay the groundwork for future collaboration. This initiative will support the JCA's modernization efforts and enhance Jamaica's national competitiveness. The strategic plan is expected to guide the JCA in streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and fostering a more conducive environment for international trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Liberia Adopts Competencybased HR to Improve Governance

Liberia Adopts Competencybased HR to Improve Governance

The Liberia Revenue Authority, with support from the World Customs Organization, implemented competency-based human resource management. By building competency models, competency dictionaries, and job descriptions, they optimized talent allocation and enhanced employee capabilities. This initiative aims to improve tax collection efficiency and promote national economic development. This approach provides a valuable reference for other government departments and enterprises, emphasizing a people-oriented strategy that prioritizes talent cultivation and development. The focus is on aligning skills with roles to boost overall organizational performance.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR Reform

Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR Reform

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA), with support from the World Customs Organization, is actively modernizing its GRH system based on competency models. Through the establishment of working groups, development of competency models, and participation in customized training programs, the LRA aims to improve employee quality, enhance organizational effectiveness, and strengthen organizational competitiveness. This experience provides valuable lessons for other tax authorities. The transformation focuses on building a skilled and efficient workforce to effectively manage tax administration and contribute to national development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cambodia Deploys Raman Spectrometers to Tighten Border Security

Cambodia Deploys Raman Spectrometers to Tighten Border Security

Under the WCO Asia Pacific Security Project, funded by the Japanese government, Cambodian Customs has introduced Raman spectrometers for rapid and accurate identification of explosive precursors. This initiative, involving equipment donation and professional training, aims to enhance Cambodia's border security enforcement capabilities. It effectively combats the smuggling of explosive precursors, safeguarding national security and social stability. This effort serves as a valuable reference for customs administrations in other developing countries seeking to strengthen their border control measures against illicit trafficking.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Port of New York and Jersey Expands with Infrastructure Upgrades

Port of New York and Jersey Expands with Infrastructure Upgrades

The Port of New York and New Jersey solidifies its position as the second busiest port in the United States, driven by significant container throughput and ongoing infrastructure upgrades. The 33-year lease renewal agreement with Maher Terminals signals a new phase of infrastructure improvements and operational optimization, further enhancing its competitiveness in the global trade network. This commitment to modernization ensures the port remains a vital trade hub, facilitating efficient movement of goods and contributing significantly to the regional and national economy.

01/26/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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US Retail Sales Growth Flatlines in July Amid Economic Pressures

US Retail Sales Growth Flatlines in July Amid Economic Pressures

Reports from the U.S. Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF) indicate a slowdown in retail sales growth in July. Commerce Department data shows a total retail sales increase of 3.7%, while NRF data reveals a core retail sales increase of only 0.1%. Retailers need to proactively address these challenges and adjust their strategies to adapt to evolving consumer demands. This slowdown signals a potential shift in consumer behavior, requiring retailers to be agile and responsive to maintain sales momentum.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Enhances Azerbaijan Customs Training with Blended Learning Platform

WCO Enhances Azerbaijan Customs Training with Blended Learning Platform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Azerbaijan Customs in implementing a blended learning approach. This involves launching a national e-learning platform that integrates WCO's e-learning resources with traditional teaching methods. The goal is to enhance the professional knowledge and skills of customs officers. This initiative marks an innovation in Azerbaijan Customs' training model and offers a valuable example for other countries to consider. This hybrid approach aims to provide a more flexible and effective learning experience for customs officials.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade at Risk Due to Rising Port Cybersecurity Gaps

Global Trade at Risk Due to Rising Port Cybersecurity Gaps

During testimony before Congress, the security chief of the Port of Long Beach highlighted the significant cybersecurity threats facing U.S. ports, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive national defense strategy. The complex port ecosystem presents vulnerabilities at every level, which could be exploited. Recommendations included enhanced information sharing, improved personnel awareness, and increased technological investment to build a robust security defense. This is crucial to safeguarding vital trade lifelines and mitigating potential disruptions caused by cyberattacks and other security breaches.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bidens Infrastructure Plan Prioritizes Cybersecurity

Bidens Infrastructure Plan Prioritizes Cybersecurity

Following the Colonial Pipeline incident, the Transportation Secretary is leveraging the event to promote President Biden's "American Jobs Plan," emphasizing the need for infrastructure upgrades and enhanced cybersecurity. The administration argues that modernizing infrastructure and bolstering cybersecurity defenses are crucial for national security and economic stability. The Colonial Pipeline attack highlighted vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, making the case for increased investment in these areas under the proposed plan. The administration aims to create jobs while strengthening the nation's resilience against cyber threats.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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