New Initiative Aims to Boost SME Global Trade Access

New Initiative Aims to Boost SME Global Trade Access

The report calls on customs administrations worldwide to simplify procedures and remove barriers hindering SMEs' participation in global trade. This aims to promote their integration into the global trading system and build a more resilient future for trade. Streamlining processes and reducing complexities will empower SMEs to engage more effectively in international commerce, fostering economic growth and diversification. The report emphasizes the importance of creating a level playing field where SMEs can compete and contribute to a robust and inclusive global economy. The AEO program is highlighted as a key tool for facilitating trade and enhancing security.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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White House Launches FLOW Initiative to Bolster Supply Chains

White House Launches FLOW Initiative to Bolster Supply Chains

The White House FLOW program aims to connect supply chains through digital infrastructure, enhancing information sharing to alleviate congestion, accelerate freight, and reduce costs. This initiative brings together 18 supply chain stakeholders, but industry reaction is mixed, citing concerns about insufficient representation, data security, and conflicting interests. The success of FLOW hinges on information sharing, technological support, and collaborative safeguards. It has the potential to offer a model for global supply chain digital transformation, but its impact will depend on addressing the aforementioned challenges and fostering broader industry buy-in.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Redefining Responsibilities Under VGM Regulations Transparency of Data and Accountability

Redefining Responsibilities Under VGM Regulations Transparency of Data and Accountability

The new Verified Gross Mass (VGM) regulations require all containers to declare their total weight before loading, and exporters must be aware of their legal responsibilities. Failure to provide compliant information may result in cargo not being loaded. Ports and transport companies need to establish new mechanisms to handle VGM data, enhancing transparency in supply chain management and raising compliance awareness to avoid potential economic losses due to violations.

11/30/-0001 Logistics Industry Insights
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Mars Petcare Adopts Blockchain for Pet Food Supply Chain Transparency

Mars Petcare Adopts Blockchain for Pet Food Supply Chain Transparency

Mars, Incorporated partners with Wholechain to build an end-to-end traceability system for seafood in pet food using blockchain technology. This enables digital interoperability and ensures transparent information sharing throughout the supply chain. Aligned with GDST standards, this initiative enhances supply chain visibility and demonstrates Mars' commitment to sustainability. It provides consumers with confidence and promotes improved traceability and responsibility across the entire food industry. The solution allows tracking from origin to finished product, ensuring the seafood is sourced responsibly and ethically, meeting consumer demand for transparency.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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IBM Food Trust Raw Seafoods Boost Seafood Transparency Via Blockchain

IBM Food Trust Raw Seafoods Boost Seafood Transparency Via Blockchain

IBM Food Trust partnered with Raw Seafoods to enhance transparency and traceability in the seafood supply chain using blockchain technology, addressing consumer concerns about seafood safety, sustainability, and authenticity. Real-time data uploads and sharing enable end-to-end tracking from fishing vessel to table, reshaping trust in the seafood industry. This initiative aims to provide consumers with safer, more reliable seafood products and promote sustainable development within the seafood sector. The blockchain solution allows for verifiable tracking of the seafood's journey, ensuring its origin and handling are transparently documented.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Tightens Rules on Freight Forwarders to Boost Seller Transparency

Amazon Tightens Rules on Freight Forwarders to Boost Seller Transparency

Amazon is cracking down on the 'Far Warehouse Near Delivery' issue by upgrading the shipment management page, improving the accuracy of appointment manifests, and severely punishing violations. Sellers can now track the warehouse entry location of their shipments through the backend, choose reputable freight forwarders, and operate in compliance to jointly build a healthy ecosystem. This aims to ensure fair competition and efficient logistics within the Amazon marketplace, promoting a more sustainable and reliable experience for both sellers and customers.

12/31/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chile Peru US Push for Trade Transparency Via Internet Disclosure

Chile Peru US Push for Trade Transparency Via Internet Disclosure

A joint proposal by Chile, Peru, and the United States aims to enhance trade transparency and reduce transaction costs by using the internet to publish import and export regulations, thereby promoting trade facilitation. The proposal emphasizes the internet as a method of publication and focuses on the specific needs of developing countries. It seeks to assist them in integrating into the global trade system through technical assistance, delegation of functions, and private sector involvement, ultimately fostering an open, transparent, and efficient global trade ecosystem.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Serbia Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Risk Management Aid

Serbia Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Risk Management Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), conducted a risk management workshop for Serbian Customs. The aim was to enhance their risk management capabilities, establish a robust risk management system, and improve their risk registry. This initiative will help Serbian Customs improve inspection efficiency, increase transparency, and ultimately facilitate trade, contributing to the country's economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos WACAM Project Boosts Customs Collaboration in Cape Verde

Wcos WACAM Project Boosts Customs Collaboration in Cape Verde

The WCO's WACAM project assisted Cape Verde Customs in establishing a stakeholder engagement mechanism to enhance transparency, facilitate trade, combat smuggling, and achieve customs modernization. This initiative fostered collaboration and improved communication between customs authorities and various stakeholders, leading to more efficient and effective customs operations. The project's success highlights the importance of stakeholder involvement in driving customs reform and promoting economic growth.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zimbabwe Launches Trade Single Window with WCO Support

Zimbabwe Launches Trade Single Window with WCO Support

The WCO supports Zimbabwe's Electronic Single Window project, aiming to improve government collaboration. Experts shared experiences, emphasizing stakeholder engagement and data harmonization to streamline Zimbabwe's trade processes. The initiative seeks to reduce trade barriers, improve efficiency, and enhance transparency. By implementing a single platform for all trade-related documentation and procedures, Zimbabwe aims to boost its competitiveness in the global market and facilitate smoother cross-border trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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