WCO Enhances IT Leadership for West and Central African Customs

WCO Enhances IT Leadership for West and Central African Customs

The WCO held an Information Technology Strategic Seminar for West and Central Africa in Senegal. This event aimed to enhance customs leadership capabilities to address evolving trade challenges and promote economic development within the region. The seminar focused on leveraging information technology to improve customs efficiency, security, and compliance. Participants explored strategic approaches to modernize customs operations and facilitate legitimate trade flows, ultimately contributing to regional economic growth and integration. The WCO continues to support its member administrations in adopting innovative solutions for effective border management.

Future Shipping Network: Reshaping East-west Trade Dynamics

Future Shipping Network: Reshaping East-west Trade Dynamics

The East-West Shipping Network Initiative aims to enhance the reliability and efficiency of global trade transportation by reducing the number of ports along major shipping routes, optimizing shipping services, and introducing flexible regional shipping lines. Set to officially operate in February 2025, the initiative will effectively strengthen the resilience and responsiveness of supply chains.

01/30/2025 Logistics
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West and Central African Customs Officials Boost Skills Via WCO Training

West and Central African Customs Officials Boost Skills Via WCO Training

Customs trainees from French-speaking West, Central, and parts of African countries visited the WCO Secretariat. Through thematic lectures and exchange visits, they gained in-depth understanding of the WCO's operational mechanisms, strategic planning, and capacity building projects. The training aims to enhance the professional level of customs officers in developing countries, promote international customs cooperation, and build a safer and more efficient global trade system. The visit fostered knowledge sharing and strengthened relationships within the global customs community.

Bubaque Port Key Hub in West Africas Shipping Network

Bubaque Port Key Hub in West Africas Shipping Network

Bubaque Port is a small barge port located on Bubaque Island in the Bijagós Archipelago of Guinea-Bissau, primarily serving West African shipping routes. The port mainly handles Ro-Ro vessels and passenger ferries, acting as a vital hub connecting the archipelago's islands and fostering tourism. Despite its limited size, Bubaque Port plays a crucial role in the local economy, facilitating transportation and trade within the region. It's an important point of connection for the island communities.

Bata Port Overview: An Important Commercial Port of Equatorial Guinea

Bata Port Overview: An Important Commercial Port of Equatorial Guinea

Bata Port, located in Equatorial Guinea, serves as an important commercial port in the Littoral Province, accommodating vessels with a maximum draft of 11.59 meters. The port features two berths and comprehensive service facilities. Operating from Monday to Saturday, it offers various services including boat transport, freshwater supply, and medical assistance, enhancing its significance in West African shipping.

COSCO OOCL Expand MWAX Service to Conakry Port

COSCO OOCL Expand MWAX Service to Conakry Port

COSCO SHIPPING and OOCL jointly upgraded the MWAX service, incorporating the Port of Conakry in Guinea into the network. This enhancement will improve the transportation capacity of bulk commodities, strengthen their position in the African market, and facilitate the development of China-Africa trade. Both parties will continue to optimize the service to address challenges and provide high-quality shipping services. The upgraded MWAX service aims to better serve the growing trade demands between China and West Africa.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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Oakland Port Strike Disrupts West Coast Shipping Risks Cargo Diversion

Oakland Port Strike Disrupts West Coast Shipping Risks Cargo Diversion

The Oakland dockworker strike exacerbated congestion at West Coast ports and accelerated the trend of cargo diversion. A combination of labor disputes, efficiency bottlenecks, and market downturns has presented significant challenges to West Coast ports. Unions and terminals need to weigh the pros and cons and seek mutually beneficial solutions to restore the competitiveness of West Coast ports. The strike highlights the need for improved labor relations and infrastructure investments to ensure the long-term viability of these crucial trade gateways.

12/30/2025 Logistics
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Air Freight Challenges Persist at Central African Republics Bossangoa Airport

Air Freight Challenges Persist at Central African Republics Bossangoa Airport

This article provides detailed information on Bossangoa Airport (BSN) in the Central African Republic, including essential details and customs clearance guidelines. It highlights the West Bank Freight three-letter code lookup system and other useful logistics tools. The aim is to offer comprehensive information support and convenient services for international air freight operations to and from CAR. This resource is designed to streamline the shipping process and provide easy access to necessary airport and freight related information.

Exploring Seattle Port The Shipping Hub and Container Center of the West Coast

Exploring Seattle Port The Shipping Hub and Container Center of the West Coast

The Seattle Port, located in Washington State, is a crucial international trading port in the United States, connecting the West Coast with the Asia-Pacific region, handling an annual throughput of 20 million tons. The port consists of both inner and outer harbor sections, featuring multiple container and bulk cargo terminals, and possesses efficient intermodal transport capabilities, further solidifying its position as the closest port in North America to the Far East.