Global Trade Shifts Reshape Shipping Industry Outlook

Global Trade Shifts Reshape Shipping Industry Outlook

Sanne Manders' blog post delves into the impact of IMO 2020 regulations, the role of customer experience optimization in global trade transformation, the 2018 freight market outlook, and a game theory analysis of ocean carrier competition. The article offers valuable advice for businesses to navigate challenges and seize opportunities, contributing to a better understanding of future trends in global trade. It provides insights into navigating the complexities of the shipping industry and improving customer relationships for success in the evolving global marketplace.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Container Shipping Slows Amid Global Trade Uncertainty

Container Shipping Slows Amid Global Trade Uncertainty

North American intermodal volumes slowed in August, according to IANA data. International container performance outpaced domestic, influenced by tariffs. Year-to-date figures show cumulative growth, but with structural divergence. The report cites positive economic data, yet the shadow of tariffs persists. A flatter peak season is anticipated, with stable network operations. The future market presents both challenges and opportunities, requiring close attention to trade policies and economic dynamics. The impact of tariffs on container shipping and intermodal transportation remains a key factor influencing market trends.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Fiji Enhances Trade with Streamlined Customs Process

Fiji Enhances Trade with Streamlined Customs Process

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a workshop in Fiji to support Fiji Customs in implementing the Time Release Study (TRS), aligning with the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Through training and collaboration, Fiji aims to optimize cargo clearance processes, promote trade facilitation, and improve the business environment. The TRS will help identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in the customs clearance process, ultimately leading to faster and more efficient trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Foreign Trade Firms Adopt Costcutting Shipping Strategies

Foreign Trade Firms Adopt Costcutting Shipping Strategies

This paper delves into how foreign trade enterprises can reduce costs and improve efficiency by optimizing ocean freight strategies. From six dimensions – FCL/LCL selection, tide-style booking, container loading optimization, route timeliness balance, policy dividend utilization, and risk cost control – combined with practical cases, this article provides a systematic cost reduction and efficiency improvement plan for enterprises. It aims to help companies enhance their competitiveness in the global supply chain restructuring.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Eswatini Introduces Etariff System to Streamline Trade

Eswatini Introduces Etariff System to Streamline Trade

With the support of the World Customs Organization, the Eswatini Revenue Service launched an electronic tariff project. This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive and integrated online platform that centralizes information on international trade regulatory measures. It provides interactive advance ruling functionalities, enhances trade transparency, reduces trade costs, and promotes trade facilitation. This project supports Eswatini in fulfilling its commitments under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and ultimately boosts the nation's competitiveness.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Sierra Leones Trade Recovery Postdisaster

WCO Aids Sierra Leones Trade Recovery Postdisaster

Following the devastating mudslides in Sierra Leone, the WCO assisted the National Revenue Authority (NRA) in developing its Strategic Plan for 2018-2022. This plan focuses on trade facilitation as a key driver for economic growth and development. The WCO's support aimed to strengthen the NRA's capacity to implement efficient and effective customs procedures, ultimately contributing to the country's reconstruction and long-term economic stability. The strategic plan provides a roadmap for modernizing customs operations and promoting a more business-friendly environment in Sierra Leone.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Certification Enhances Trade in Latin America

WCO Certification Enhances Trade in Latin America

The World Customs Organization successfully held a Mercator Programme Advisor certification workshop for the Spanish-speaking Americas region. The aim was to cultivate a group of high-quality MPA experts and promote the coordinated implementation of trade facilitation measures globally. This initiative helps relevant countries optimize customs clearance processes, reduce trade costs, and improve efficiency, injecting strong momentum into regional trade facilitation. The workshop focused on equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement the WCO's Mercator Programme, ultimately contributing to streamlined trade procedures and economic growth.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Philippines Boosts Trade with Enhanced Customs Program

Philippines Boosts Trade with Enhanced Customs Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides capacity building support to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Philippines to enhance its AEO program. This aims to improve the BOC's ability to validate AEO security standards and promote trade facilitation. Through expert training and field exercises, BOC officials' skills are enhanced, laying the foundation for a more secure and efficient trading environment. The WCO will provide further in-depth training and support to facilitate the development of the Philippine AEO program in the future.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zimbabwe Zambia Enhance Trade with Customs Interconnectivity

Zimbabwe Zambia Enhance Trade with Customs Interconnectivity

Zimbabwe and Zambia are collaborating to advance customs interconnectivity, aiming to enhance cross-border trade efficiency, reduce costs, and promote regional economic growth through data exchange and process optimization. With the support of the World Customs Organization, both countries are actively building the infrastructure and legal framework for interconnectivity, creating a more convenient and efficient trading environment for businesses. This initiative promises to streamline customs procedures and foster closer economic ties between the two nations, ultimately contributing to increased trade volumes and sustainable development.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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World Customs Journal Highlights Global Trade Shifts

World Customs Journal Highlights Global Trade Shifts

The International Network of Customs Universities (INCU) released the eighth edition of the *World Customs Journal*, focusing on topics such as customs-business partnerships, performance measurement, customs and taxation, and the impact of climate change on international trade. This journal gathers research findings from global experts and scholars, providing valuable insights for businesses, policymakers, and researchers, and leading the future direction of customs transformation.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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