Nigeria Revises Tariffs to Align With Afcfta Trade Pact

Nigeria Revises Tariffs to Align With Afcfta Trade Pact

Nigeria is upgrading its tariff system in collaboration with the WCO and ECOWAS to prepare for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This modernization aims to improve trade efficiency, combat smuggling, and promote regional integration. The updated system will streamline customs procedures and enhance compliance with international standards, ultimately facilitating smoother trade flows and contributing to Nigeria's economic growth within the AfCFTA framework. This initiative signifies Nigeria's commitment to leveraging the opportunities presented by the AfCFTA and strengthening its position as a key player in African trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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LA Port Tariffs Spark Trucking Industry Crisis

LA Port Tariffs Spark Trucking Industry Crisis

The Port of Los Angeles has experienced a significant drop in throughput due to tariff policies, leading to a severe business downturn for truck drivers. Both year-over-year and month-over-month throughput have declined, with an increase in canceled sailings. Retailers' restocking strategies have proven ineffective. The trade war is increasing uncertainty, potentially affecting holiday season commodity prices and supply. The article urges businesses to diversify trading partners, optimize supply chain management, and strengthen international cooperation. This situation highlights the vulnerability of the port and its related industries to global trade tensions.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Imposes Heavyduty Truck Tariffs Amid Industry Concerns

US Imposes Heavyduty Truck Tariffs Amid Industry Concerns

A 25% US tariff on imported heavy-duty trucks has taken effect, aiming to boost domestic manufacturing and strengthen national security. However, this move could lead to increased truck prices, supply chain disruptions, and trade tensions. Industry experts and freight carriers express concern about the long-term impact, citing increased market uncertainty and potential inflationary pressure. The actual effects of the policy remain to be seen. The price increase will impact consumers and businesses alike, potentially slowing down economic growth. The policy's effectiveness in achieving its stated goals is also questionable.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

With support from the EU-WCO and the German Alliance for Trade Facilitation, Côte d'Ivoire is actively developing a national Advance Ruling System. This initiative aims to enhance trade transparency and predictability, reduce trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and improve customs efficiency. The system is expected to revitalize Côte d'Ivoire's trade development and serve as a model for other African nations. It will provide traders with binding rulings on tariff classification, origin, and other customs-related matters before import or export, fostering a more predictable and reliable trading environment.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Industrial Real Estate Thrives Despite Economic Volatility

Industrial Real Estate Thrives Despite Economic Volatility

Cushman & Wakefield's report indicates a robust US industrial real estate market in Q2, driven by logistics demand and a preference for high-quality assets. Despite pressures in the Western region, the overall leasing market remained stable with a gradual increase, accompanied by a slowdown in supply. Experts believe that tariff easing and rental adjustments are boosting market confidence. The market is expected to continue adjusting in the future, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The report highlights the resilience of the sector and its ability to adapt to evolving economic conditions.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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TD Cowen Analyzes Freight Market Trends Tariffs and LTLTL Shifts

TD Cowen Analyzes Freight Market Trends Tariffs and LTLTL Shifts

At the SMC3 JumpStart 2025 conference, TD Cowen Managing Director Jason Seidl shared his unique insights on the freight economy, tariff impacts, AI applications, nearshoring, M&A activity, and LTL/TL market trends. His presentation provided valuable market analysis and strategic advice for businesses navigating the complexities of the current freight landscape. He highlighted key factors shaping the industry and offered actionable recommendations for companies looking to optimize their logistics operations and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Seidl's expertise offered attendees a comprehensive understanding of the forces at play in the freight market.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bahamas Strengthens Customs Tariffs to Increase Revenue

Bahamas Strengthens Customs Tariffs to Increase Revenue

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a national workshop in the Bahamas on the Harmonized System (HS) to enhance the Bahamas Customs' capacity in tariff classification. The workshop covered the theory and practice of HS coding, emphasizing the application of the General Rules for Interpretation and focusing on issues such as the classification of parts. Through talent development and the Mercator Program, it aims to facilitate trade in the Bahamas. The workshop also explored the relationship between HS code optimization and tax revenue growth from a data analysis perspective.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and Japan Boost Trade Compliance with Lab Upgrades

WCO and Japan Boost Trade Compliance with Lab Upgrades

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the "Customs Laboratory Regional Programme" to enhance the chemical analysis capabilities and HS code classification skills of its member customs administrations. Supported by Japan Customs, the program targets customs laboratory analysts and future professionals, offering training in cutting-edge technologies, laboratory management optimization, tariff classification mastery, and understanding of the WCO system. It aims to empower participants to improve their professional competence and promote global trade compliance. The program focuses on practical skills and knowledge transfer to improve efficiency and accuracy in customs operations.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho South Africa Enhance Trade to Advance Afcfta

Lesotho South Africa Enhance Trade to Advance Afcfta

Lesotho and South Africa, with the support of the World Customs Organization, jointly released a Time Release Study report to optimize border management and enhance cross-border trade efficiency. Focusing on the Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge border posts, the study aims to reduce non-tariff trade barriers through coordinated border management and the implementation of one-stop service. This initiative supports the development of the African Continental Free Trade Area and promotes regional economic prosperity by streamlining processes and improving the flow of goods between the two countries.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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North American Container Imports Rise As Trade Policies Shift

North American Container Imports Rise As Trade Policies Shift

A Descartes report indicates a slight rebound in North American container imports, but trade policy changes continue to impact supply chains. Imports from China are declining, Southeast Asia is rising, and West Coast ports are recovering. Businesses need to pay attention to policy changes, diversify sourcing, optimize inventory, strengthen collaboration, and invest in technology to build more resilient supply chains.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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