WCO Tackles Ecommerce Challenges at Davos Forum

WCO Tackles Ecommerce Challenges at Davos Forum

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization attended the Davos Forum, focusing on the opportunities and challenges presented by cross-border e-commerce. Through multilateral meetings, the crucial role of customs in trade facilitation was emphasized. The Secretary General actively advocated for data sharing, technology application, and international cooperation, aiming to build a secure and efficient cross-border e-commerce ecosystem and enhance the influence of customs in global trade. The discussions highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to address evolving complexities and ensure seamless trade flows in the digital age.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Xiamen 2026 Expo to Spotlight Crossborder Ecommerce Trends

Xiamen 2026 Expo to Spotlight Crossborder Ecommerce Trends

The 2026 China (Xiamen) International Cross-border E-commerce Exhibition positions itself as a B2B supply chain trading platform. Utilizing an innovative model of "Trade Fair + Foreign Trade E-commerce Festival," it gathers global importers and exporters, e-commerce platforms, and service providers. The event focuses on cross-border product selection, platform services, and imported goods, helping businesses grasp market trends, expand international operations, and achieve transformation and upgrading. It aims to facilitate global trade and empower businesses to thrive in the evolving cross-border e-commerce landscape.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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US Considers New Shipping Rules to Counter Chinas Maritime Power

US Considers New Shipping Rules to Counter Chinas Maritime Power

The U.S. Trade Representative's Office has initiated a Section 301 investigation into China's maritime industry, proposing revisions to billing practices and LNG export permits. These new regulations aim to counter China's dominance in maritime transport but could increase costs for U.S. businesses and disrupt global trade. Companies need to diversify suppliers, optimize transportation routes, strengthen contract management, and closely monitor policy developments to address supply chain challenges. The investigation and potential new rules highlight the ongoing tensions in US-China trade and the need for businesses to adapt to a changing global landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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DRC Zambia Launch Tradeboosting Customs Link

DRC Zambia Launch Tradeboosting Customs Link

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia are collaborating on a customs systems interconnectivity project at the Kasumbalesa border post to enhance cross-border trade efficiency. Supported by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), the project has established a steering committee and developed a work plan. Data exchange is expected to commence in May 2025, significantly reducing trade costs and promoting regional integration. This initiative underscores the commitment of both nations to streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth through enhanced customs cooperation.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Train-the-Trainer workshop in Kenya, focusing on the Basel and Montreal Conventions. Through capacity building, the WCO aims to assist national customs administrations in improving compliance, combating illegal trade, and protecting the environment. The Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization (TFCM) Programme provides technical assistance to relevant customs agencies to address trade-related environmental issues and promote sustainable development. This initiative empowers customs officers to effectively enforce environmental regulations and contribute to global environmental protection efforts.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kyoto Convention Panel Backs Customs Reform

Kyoto Convention Panel Backs Customs Reform

The 28th session of the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) Management Committee focused on the comprehensive review of the RKC. Discussions centered on the "Four-Step Framework" for the review process and identified directions for advancing concepts related to the General Annex. The meeting emphasized the importance of active participation from all contracting parties and shared experiences from new contracting parties. The aim is to enhance the convention's modernization, adapt to new global trade challenges, and promote international trade facilitation. The session highlighted the ongoing efforts to streamline customs procedures and improve efficiency in international trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Adopt Digital Tools Under WCO Guidance

Asiapacific Customs Adopt Digital Tools Under WCO Guidance

The WCO Asia-Pacific region launched a workshop on sharing experiences with disruptive technologies, focusing on the application of technologies such as blockchain, AI, and IoT in the customs field. Discussions covered public-private partnerships, data pipelines, and risk management, while emphasizing the role of international standards in achieving interoperability and paperless trade. The workshop provided valuable recommendations for the digital transformation of Asia-Pacific customs, aiming to build a secure, efficient, and intelligent global trade ecosystem. It highlighted the potential of these technologies to revolutionize customs operations and facilitate trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Advances Customs Reforms with WCO Backing

Uzbekistan Advances Customs Reforms with WCO Backing

The WCO held an online dialogue with Uzbekistan focusing on the 'Single Window' system to promote trade facilitation reforms. The WCO shared its relevant tools and expertise, while Uzbekistan presented its implementation plans. Discussions centered on key issues such as data standardization and interoperability. The dialogue aimed to support Uzbekistan's efforts in streamlining its trade processes and enhancing efficiency through the Single Window system, ultimately contributing to increased trade competitiveness and economic growth. The collaboration highlights the WCO's commitment to assisting member states in modernizing their customs procedures.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCOJICA Project Improves Customs Skills in East Africa

WCOJICA Project Improves Customs Skills in East Africa

The WCO/JICA Joint Project aims to enhance commodity classification capabilities of East African Customs and promote regional trade facilitation. Through Master Trainer training, case studies, and experience sharing, the project addresses commodity classification challenges, improves customs enforcement efficiency, and increases revenue collection, contributing to regional economic integration. The project commits to continuous support for capacity building in East African Customs, ensuring sustainable development. This initiative is crucial for streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth in the region by standardizing commodity identification and promoting compliance with international trade regulations.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bahrain Customs Adopts Wcobacked Smart Clearance System

Bahrain Customs Adopts Wcobacked Smart Clearance System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Bahrain Customs to enhance its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities and develop its advance declaration processing system to meet the requirements of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Through a workshop held in Manama, Bahrain Customs officials gained a deeper understanding of PCA concepts and the value of advance declaration processing. They committed to applying their knowledge in practice, and the WCO will continue to provide support for these efforts. This initiative aims to improve customs efficiency and facilitate trade.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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