Global Customs Agencies Crack Down on Illegal Wildlife Trade

Global Customs Agencies Crack Down on Illegal Wildlife Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Environment Programme, in collaboration with customs administrations from 11 countries, is enhancing capabilities to combat illegal wildlife trade (IWT) through online diagnostic assessments. Focusing on key areas such as training, enforcement, legislation, cooperation, intelligence, and risk management, the program tailors solutions and gathers international experts to build a global anti-smuggling defense line and safeguard ecological security. The initiative aims to improve customs' effectiveness in detecting and preventing the trafficking of endangered species and related products.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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UAE Enhances Customs Efficiency Via Wcobacked Training Reform

UAE Enhances Customs Efficiency Via Wcobacked Training Reform

The WCO assessed the recruitment and training of customs inspectors in the UAE, recommending the standardization of customs procedures. This aims to enhance enforcement efficiency and promote trade facilitation. The assessment highlighted the need for capacity building initiatives to ensure inspectors are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement customs regulations. By adopting unified standards, the UAE can streamline customs processes, reduce delays, and improve overall trade competitiveness. This ultimately contributes to a more secure and efficient global trading system.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Stricter English Rules Fail to Dent US Trucking Rates

Stricter English Rules Fail to Dent US Trucking Rates

The U.S. government is strengthening enforcement of English proficiency requirements for truck drivers, aiming to enhance safety and protect domestic jobs. In the short term, the policy has a limited impact on capacity and freight rates remain relatively stable. Long-term, the market may adapt through training, technology, and advancements in autonomous driving could alleviate labor shortages. Trucking companies and shippers should closely monitor policy implementation and adapt accordingly. Government agencies should also carefully evaluate the policy's impact and make adjustments as needed.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Group Calls for FMCSA Safety Rating Overhaul

Trucking Group Calls for FMCSA Safety Rating Overhaul

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) is urging the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to re-evaluate its safety rating system, citing geographical biases and data quality issues that distort ratings. Concerns raised highlight deficiencies in data sufficiency, enforcement disparities, and rating standards within the current system. These shortcomings necessitate improvements to more accurately reflect a carrier's safety performance. The ATA believes a revised system is crucial for providing a more reliable assessment of motor carrier safety and identifying high-risk operators effectively.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Calls for Safety Rating System Reform

Trucking Industry Calls for Safety Rating System Reform

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) is urging reform of the current safety rating system, citing geographic enforcement disparities and data quality issues leading to unfair ratings. Multiple associations generally agree that the existing system is flawed. Suggestions include simplifying the rating process and avoiding reliance on the controversial CSA/SMS system to more accurately identify and remove unsafe trucking companies from operation. The aim is to create a more reliable and equitable system for ensuring road safety and compliance within the freight industry.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Temu Under UFLPA Scrutiny Crossborder Ecommerce Compliance Guide

Temu Under UFLPA Scrutiny Crossborder Ecommerce Compliance Guide

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the U.S. Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) and the compliance challenges faced by cross-border e-commerce platforms like Temu. It details the core content of the UFLPA, compliance obligations, and CBP's enforcement rules. Furthermore, it offers comprehensive compliance recommendations for exporting companies, including strengthening compliance management, conducting supply chain due diligence, performing regular audits, and establishing traceability mechanisms. This helps businesses mitigate compliance risks and ensure smooth access to the U.S. market.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Customs Strengthened Against Illegal Wildlife Trade

Malawi Customs Strengthened Against Illegal Wildlife Trade

The WCO's INAMA project, funded by GIZ, effectively enhanced the Malawi Revenue Authority's risk management capabilities in combating illegal wildlife trade. This was achieved through diagnostic assessments, practical training, risk profile development, and capacity building. The project emphasizes long-term sustainability alongside short-term impact, providing valuable experience and a model for other countries seeking to strengthen their customs enforcement efforts against wildlife trafficking. Its holistic approach ensures lasting improvements in identifying and mitigating risks related to this illicit trade.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Customs Boosts Wildlife Protection with WCO Tech Upgrade

Malawi Customs Boosts Wildlife Protection with WCO Tech Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) in enhancing its intelligence capabilities to combat illegal wildlife trade. Through training and process optimization, the initiative strengthens risk management and contributes to the protection of biodiversity. This collaboration aims to improve the MRA's ability to identify and intercept shipments of illegal wildlife products, ultimately supporting global efforts to conserve endangered species and combat transnational crime. The WCO's support is crucial for building sustainable enforcement mechanisms within the MRA.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Jewelry Sellers Face Copyright Risks Over Earring Designs

Jewelry Sellers Face Copyright Risks Over Earring Designs

Jewelry sellers beware! Copyright disputes have arisen over two earring designs, prompting enforcement actions. While a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) hasn't yet been issued, the risk of infringement is significant. Artist Sehreen Shahzad holds the copyright to these earring designs. Sellers should carefully compare their products to avoid potential legal issues. Compliance is crucial for success in cross-border e-commerce. Don't risk your business for minor gains. Due diligence is highly recommended to ensure your products don't infringe on existing copyrights.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Crossborder Ecommerce Faces New Customs Valuation Challenges

Crossborder Ecommerce Faces New Customs Valuation Challenges

The World Customs Organization released Advisory Opinion 4.19, clarifying how to handle royalties that include both patent rights for imported raw materials and trademark rights for the final product in customs valuation. This opinion aims to enhance valuation certainty, reduce trade friction, and assist businesses in tax planning. It offers valuable guidance for cross-border e-commerce and import-export enterprises, particularly regarding the treatment of royalties in determining customs value. The advisory opinion provides a framework for consistently applying valuation principles to complex licensing agreements.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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