Cuba Adopts WCO Data Model to Modernize Customs

Cuba Adopts WCO Data Model to Modernize Customs

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Cuban Customs in implementing the WCO Data Model through technical assistance. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes, enhance efficiency, and promote data interoperability with other government agencies. The WCO Data Model, serving as a common language for global trade, facilitates the modernization of Cuban Customs by standardizing data elements and information structures. This integration into the global trade system will ultimately improve Cuba's international competitiveness.

China Boosts Crossborder Ecommerce with New Policies

China Boosts Crossborder Ecommerce with New Policies

China's Ministry of Commerce is intensifying efforts to stabilize foreign trade by boosting cross-border e-commerce, expanding demonstration zones, introducing supportive policies, and fostering market players. As a major foreign trade province, Shenzhen should seize this opportunity, leverage its geographical advantages, improve its industrial chain, strengthen policy innovation, cultivate talent, and support the export of competitive products. This will enable Shenzhen to make a greater contribution to stabilizing and growing national foreign trade.

US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

A Descartes report reveals a significant drop in U.S. container imports in May, with China freight experiencing a record decline due to trade friction and tariffs. The share of East Coast and Gulf Coast ports increased, while West Coast ports saw a decrease, indicating a profound shift in trade patterns. The impact of ongoing trade disputes is clearly visible in the reduced import volumes and the changing dynamics between different port regions.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Global Customs Intensifies Crackdown on Fake COVID Supplies in Southeast Asia

Global Customs Intensifies Crackdown on Fake COVID Supplies in Southeast Asia

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is strengthening cooperation with ASEAN to combat cross-border smuggling of counterfeit and substandard COVID-19 supplies. This collaboration aims to enhance customs control capabilities, strengthen intelligence sharing, and leverage technology to build a new framework for global customs cooperation. The initiative seeks to safeguard global health security by preventing the proliferation of illicit medical products and ensuring the integrity of supply chains. This partnership underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing transnational threats and protecting public health.

United Group Hunan University Partner on Smart Logistics Training

United Group Hunan University Partner on Smart Logistics Training

Lianyu Group and Hunan International Economics University are jointly building a university-enterprise cooperation base to create a new model for smart logistics talent cultivation. This will be achieved through proactive talent development, promotion of industry-academia integration, and construction of talent pipelines. The two parties will engage in in-depth cooperation focusing on "enterprise entering the classroom and students entering projects," realizing resource sharing and jointly building a highland for smart logistics talent. The goal is to deliver high-quality talents to the industry.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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WCO Releases Arabic Audit Guide to Enhance Middle East Trade Compliance

WCO Releases Arabic Audit Guide to Enhance Middle East Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released the Arabic version of the 'Post-Clearance Audit Guidelines' to assist Arabic-speaking members in effectively implementing post-clearance audits, enhancing trade compliance, optimizing customs control, and promoting international trade facilitation. Translated by Jordan Customs, the guidelines cover risk management, operational guidance, and digital transformation, contributing to the construction of an intelligent, efficient, and collaborative post-clearance audit system. This aims to improve overall customs effectiveness and streamline trade processes within the region.

Global Shipping Crisis Worsens As Blank Sailings Surge

Global Shipping Crisis Worsens As Blank Sailings Surge

The global shipping industry faces significant challenges due to US-China trade friction, with a surge in blank sailings surpassing even pandemic levels. Reports indicate a substantial decline in freight volume on Asia-US routes. Businesses should proactively plan, diversify sourcing, and strengthen collaborations to navigate the evolving trade landscape. The increase in blank sailings indicates reduced demand and capacity management by shipping companies in response to the trade tensions and their impact on cargo volumes.

WCO Aids Costa Rica in Strengthening Supply Chains Via AEO

WCO Aids Costa Rica in Strengthening Supply Chains Via AEO

WCO assists Costa Rica in reviewing its AEO manual and strategy to establish a customs-led AEO program, enhancing trade security and efficiency. AEO certification facilitates customs clearance, improves security, and provides international recognition. This initiative aims to streamline trade processes, reduce border delays, and foster a more secure and predictable trading environment for Costa Rican businesses involved in international trade. The focus is on aligning the AEO program with international standards and best practices to maximize its benefits.