Benin Customs Modernizes HR Leads Reform in West Africa

Benin Customs Modernizes HR Leads Reform in West Africa

With the support of the World Customs Organization, the Benin Customs Administration launched a Human Resource Modernization project aimed at building a competency-based HRM system. Through capacity building, job catalog refinement, and regional cooperation, Benin Customs has set a precedent for improving efficiency and promoting regional customs modernization. The project emphasizes continuous improvement and comprehensive implementation to create a highly efficient and professional workforce. This initiative showcases Benin's commitment to modernizing its customs operations and fostering a skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of international trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mali Customs HR System Sets Benchmark for West Africa

Mali Customs HR System Sets Benchmark for West Africa

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Mali Customs successfully implemented a competency-based human resources management system. Through broad participation and high-level support, they optimized recruitment, training, and performance management. This experience provides a valuable reference for other developing countries, emphasizing the importance of high-level commitment, broad participation, and a gradual approach. The goal is to enhance the professionalism of the customs workforce and contribute to national economic development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Wcos MADAO Project Enhances Customs Management in West Africa

Wcos MADAO Project Enhances Customs Management in West Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the West Africa Customs Modernization Project (MADAO) to enhance strategic management capabilities. Following regional training, national-level support will be provided to establish strategic systems. This initiative aims to improve customs efficiency and effectiveness across West Africa by strengthening their strategic planning and management processes. The MADAO project focuses on building sustainable customs capacity through training and the development of robust strategic frameworks, ultimately contributing to regional economic growth and security.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Capacity in West and Central Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Capacity in West and Central Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting Côte d'Ivoire Customs in upgrading its human resources management system by introducing competency-based management and project cycle management methodologies. Through expert training, tool development, and action plan formulation, the initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of customs officials. This capacity building effort lays the foundation for customs modernization and serves as a valuable reference for other customs administrations. The project focuses on improving efficiency and effectiveness within the Ivorian customs service by equipping personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Coast Ports Face Cost Challenges in Emissions Cutbacks

West Coast Ports Face Cost Challenges in Emissions Cutbacks

The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach aim to upgrade emission reduction standards and promote zero-emission technologies, facing challenges like funding and declining cargo volume. The Panama Canal expansion benefits East Coast ports, creating a contrast. While environmental investments offer long-term value, short-term economic benefits are less evident. West Coast ports need to balance environmental protection with economic considerations, setting reasonable goals, diversifying funding sources, and strengthening technological innovation and cooperation to achieve sustainable development.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West Coast Ports Protest 30 Million Chassis Fee Dispute

West Coast Ports Protest 30 Million Chassis Fee Dispute

A dispute has erupted at US West Coast ports over planned surcharges on chassis rentals, prompting leasing companies to petition the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). They allege the port fees are unreasonable and favor shipping lines. This incident could impact port fee structures and potentially reshape the US logistics landscape. The FMC's ruling is crucial, determining the future direction of the chassis leasing market. The leasing companies are arguing that the fees are anti-competitive and will negatively impact their ability to operate fairly within the port system.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Halt Chassis Fee Amid Cost Dispute

West Coast Ports Halt Chassis Fee Amid Cost Dispute

West Coast terminal operators' suspension of chassis service fees has sparked a dispute between leasing companies and terminal operators regarding land cost allocation. Leasing companies filed a complaint with the Federal Maritime Commission, temporarily halting the fees. The solution lies in strengthening industry cooperation, exploring new business models, and improving laws and regulations to achieve a win-win situation for all parties and ensure supply chain stability. This dispute highlights the complexities of port operations and the need for collaborative solutions to maintain efficient and reliable supply chains.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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WCO Backs Gambias Customs Reform for West African Leadership

WCO Backs Gambias Customs Reform for West African Leadership

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, is assisting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in building a competency-based human resource management system. Through expert consultations and institutionalization efforts, the GRA is expected to become a benchmark for human resource management in West Africa, offering valuable lessons for other developing countries. This initiative aims to strengthen the GRA's capabilities and contribute to its overall effectiveness and efficiency in customs administration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Coast Ports Secure Early Labor Deal Averting Strike

West Coast Ports Secure Early Labor Deal Averting Strike

The Pacific Maritime Association proposed a three-year contract extension to the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, aiming to avert another economic crisis caused by West Coast port labor disputes. The agreement covers key issues like wage increases, pension contributions, and healthcare benefits, but union approval faces challenges. Automation and regulation are long-term challenges requiring collaborative solutions between labor and management to achieve mutual benefit and ensure supply chain stability. The proposed extension seeks to maintain operational efficiency and prevent disruptions that could negatively impact the national economy.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a strong start to Q4 for intermodal transportation, with October volumes up 8.9% year-over-year. This growth was fueled by a surge in West Coast imports and robust consumer spending. International containers were a key driver, showing a cumulative increase of 15.2% for the year. Industry experts anticipate strong international freight volumes to continue through the end of the year. Tightening truck capacity is expected to further benefit intermodal transportation.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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