Benin Customs Adopts Competency Model to Enhance Efficiency

Benin Customs Adopts Competency Model to Enhance Efficiency

With the support of the Swedish government through the WACAM project, Benin Customs has successfully implemented a competency-based human resource management system. This system covers key areas such as recruitment, training, and performance evaluation, aiming to enhance the overall effectiveness of the customs administration. The Minister of Finance expressed support for the project and hopes to extend it to the tax department. A pilot competency assessment project will be launched at Cotonou Airport, laying the foundation for the modernization of human resources within Benin Customs.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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DAWN Airdrop Tests Bandwidth Sharing Risks in Depin Sector

DAWN Airdrop Tests Bandwidth Sharing Risks in Depin Sector

DAWN is a Solana-based DePIN project aiming to build a decentralized broadband network by sharing idle bandwidth. This analysis covers DAWN's project overview, participation requirements, earning methods, and potential risks. It also explores the opportunities and challenges within the DePIN sector. The recommendation is for users to participate with idle devices, closely monitor project progress, manage risks, and diversify participation in various DePIN projects to seize opportunities and mitigate potential downsides. This approach allows for a balanced engagement within the evolving DePIN landscape.

01/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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California Logistics Hub Challenged Over Environmental Issues

California Logistics Hub Challenged Over Environmental Issues

The California World Logistics Center project faces renewed legal challenges over environmental concerns. Environmental groups allege the project circumvented environmental review and will exacerbate air pollution. Project proponents emphasize their environmental mitigation measures. This article analyzes the project's economic benefits and environmental costs, examining the demands of various stakeholders. It proposes sustainable development policy recommendations, highlighting the need to balance economic development with environmental protection. The core issue revolves around whether the economic gains justify the potential environmental damage and how to ensure future projects prioritize sustainability.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Port of Long Beach Approves Final EIR for Pier B Rail Expansion

Port of Long Beach Approves Final EIR for Pier B Rail Expansion

The Port of Long Beach released the final Environmental Impact Report for the Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility project. This project aims to enhance the port's rail capacity by constructing a new rail yard, reducing reliance on truck transportation, improving freight efficiency, and improving air quality. This initiative represents another significant step by the Port of Long Beach towards sustainable development. The project is expected to receive approval from the Harbor Commission, and the port will continue to keep the public informed about its progress.

01/27/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Albania Upgrades Customs Lab to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Albania Upgrades Customs Lab to Enhance Trade Efficiency

With the support of WCO and Eurocustoms, Albanian Customs held a laboratory modernization workshop in 2017, aiming to enhance commodity classification and identification capabilities. Through hardware upgrades, quality management system improvements, personnel skill development, and international cooperation, Albania is committed to building a modern and internationally competitive customs laboratory. This initiative seeks to promote trade facilitation, ensure regulatory compliance, and ultimately contribute to the nation's economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Islands Boost Customs Valuation with Expert Program

Pacific Islands Boost Customs Valuation with Expert Program

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly launched the "Master Trainer Programme" to develop customs valuation experts in Pacific Island Countries. This initiative aims to establish a regional training system, enhance customs valuation capabilities, facilitate trade, increase revenue collection, and improve international competitiveness. The first working group activity has been successfully held, laying a solid foundation for future actions.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Digital ATA Carnets Streamline Global Trade Processes

Digital ATA Carnets Streamline Global Trade Processes

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is actively promoting the digital transformation of ATA Carnets and Customs Transit Carnets to simplify cross-border trade processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Contracting parties are required to complete the transition by the end of 2027 and designate contact points. This digital transformation not only facilitates trade but also strengthens international cooperation, ushering in a new era of global trade.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Comoros Modernizes Customs System to Enhance Trade

Comoros Modernizes Customs System to Enhance Trade

With the assistance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Comoros has upgraded its national commodity nomenclature to the HS 2012 version and signed the instrument of accession to the HS Convention. This aims to improve Comoros' trade efficiency, tariff revenue, and international image, bringing new opportunities for its economic development. Capacity building will follow to enhance customs officers' understanding and application of the HS.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Program Extended to Strengthen Customs Operations

Global Trade Program Extended to Strengthen Customs Operations

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) have agreed to a no-cost extension of one year for the Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP). Launched in 2018, the GTFP has benefited numerous countries by significantly improving customs management and trade facilitation through capacity building, institutional reforms, cooperation promotion, and technological innovation. This has injected new momentum into global trade development.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asiapacific Customs Boosts Skills Via Remote Training

Asiapacific Customs Boosts Skills Via Remote Training

The 19th Heads of Asia Pacific WCO Regional Training Centers (RTCs) Meeting explored the role of remote training in customs capacity building during the pandemic. RTCs shared experiences, challenges, and innovative initiatives, emphasizing strengthened cooperation. They highlighted the use of data analytics and VR technologies to promote personalized and practical training. This aims to address the complex international trade environment and enhance regional customs capabilities.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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