Serbia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Modernization

Serbia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Customs Modernization

Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, Serbian Customs has made significant progress in standardization, transparency, cooperation, and automation, particularly in the AEO program, online application systems, and automation projects. These achievements have not only promoted Serbia's international trade but also injected new impetus into regional economic development. Serbia's reform experience provides valuable lessons for other developing countries. The advancements highlight the positive impact of targeted support and strategic implementation in streamlining customs procedures and fostering economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Laos Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Reform

Laos Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Reform

In 2017, the WCO conducted a tariff classification capacity building project in Laos to improve its classification skills, establish an advance ruling system, and implement HS 2017. Through workshops, tool applications, and expert guidance, the capacity of Lao Customs officials was enhanced, laying the foundation for trade facilitation. The experience of Chinese Customs also provided a reference for Laos. This initiative serves as a model of international cooperation in promoting trade facilitation and contributes to the economic development of Laos.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Trains Customs Officials to Fight Cultural Heritage Trafficking

WCO Trains Customs Officials to Fight Cultural Heritage Trafficking

The World Customs Organization (WCO) trained Customs officers from the Middle East and North Africa in Beirut to enhance their capacity to combat cultural property smuggling. The training covered key areas including identification of smuggled artifacts, international cooperation, relevant legal frameworks, and practical enforcement techniques. The aim was to equip officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively identify, seize, and prevent the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage items, thereby contributing to the protection of cultural heritage in the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Urges Global Trade Resilience at BASC Congress

WCO Urges Global Trade Resilience at BASC Congress

The WCO Deputy Secretary General highlighted the importance of international trade resilience at the 10th World BASC Congress. He presented the WCO's work in standardizing customs procedures, promoting international cooperation, and building capacity, with specific mention of the SAFE Framework and its positive impact on AEO programs. The WCO will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to address international trade challenges and promote global economic prosperity. The speech underscored the critical role of customs in ensuring secure and efficient global supply chains.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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UPS Ends USPS Surepost Partnership Sparking Cost Concerns

UPS Ends USPS Surepost Partnership Sparking Cost Concerns

UPS, dissatisfied with the quality and price increases of the US Postal Service's SurePost service, has decided to end the partnership and fully take over delivery operations. This move may lead to short-term shipping cost increases. However, in the long run, it is expected to promote service quality improvements in the logistics industry, bringing a better logistics experience to consumers. Competition and cooperation within the logistics industry will continue to drive innovation, leading to a more convenient and efficient future for us.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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US Paris Agreement Shifts Disrupt Businesses Environment

US Paris Agreement Shifts Disrupt Businesses Environment

The Trump administration's renewed announcement of the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement has sparked widespread concern in the business and environmental sectors. Despite the US exit, the long-term necessity of reducing climate emissions remains unchanged. Industry stakeholders will continue to promote sustainable development. Enhanced cooperation among all parties is crucial to address the challenges of climate change collectively. The need for global collaboration to mitigate climate impacts is now more apparent than ever, regardless of individual nations' stances.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Boosts Holiday Hiring Amid Retail Strategy Shift

Amazon Boosts Holiday Hiring Amid Retail Strategy Shift

Amazon is hiring 150,000 new employees for the holiday season, while also adjusting its return policies and inventory management rules to adapt to market changes and prepare for the peak season. This move reflects Amazon's optimistic sales expectations and presents both opportunities and challenges for sellers. Sellers need to closely monitor market trends, strengthen cooperation with the platform, and focus on brand building to stand out in the competition. Success hinges on adapting to the evolving landscape and leveraging the holiday season's potential.

01/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon FBA Sellers Face Capacity Cuts Logistics Challenges

Amazon FBA Sellers Face Capacity Cuts Logistics Challenges

The sharp drop in Amazon FBA storage capacity and chaotic logistics pose significant challenges for cross-border e-commerce sellers. Sellers need to optimize inventory management, diversify warehousing layouts, strengthen logistics supervision, enhance product competitiveness, and embrace compliant operations to break through the changes. Experts recommend reassessing FBA dependence, building a diversified warehousing system, strengthening cooperation and supervision with logistics providers, and improving logistics transparency. This multi-pronged approach is crucial for navigating the current landscape and ensuring sustainable growth.

12/29/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

WCO Enhances PICARD Standards to Strengthen Global Customs Operations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is upgrading the PICARD Professional Standards (PS) to adapt to the evolving global trade landscape. The updated standards will encompass key areas such as public-private sector cooperation, customs and tax function integration, and coordinated border management. It will also address emerging trends, security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. The WCO invites stakeholders to participate in capacity building initiatives to jointly promote global customs development. This collaborative effort aims to enhance customs efficiency and effectiveness worldwide.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Iran Enhances Customs Via WCO Japanbacked AEO Program

Iran Enhances Customs Via WCO Japanbacked AEO Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the CCF Japan, supported Iranian Customs in hosting a national workshop on Customs Procedure Informatization and the AEO Program. The workshop aimed to enhance customs clearance efficiency and strengthen border control through information technology. It also focused on upgrading the AEO program to promote trade facilitation and improve Iran's competitiveness in global trade. The initiative underscores the importance of digital transformation and international cooperation in streamlining customs processes and fostering economic growth.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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