West Coast Ports See Surge in Intermodal Freight Demand

West Coast Ports See Surge in Intermodal Freight Demand

The US multimodal market started Q4 strong, driven by West Coast imports and consumer spending. International Standard Containers (ISO) showed significant growth year-over-year. Although trailer volumes declined, the overall market maintained its upward trajectory. Experts anticipate continued strength in international freight volumes and are monitoring labor agreements and trucking capacity for their potential impact on future market development. The performance of ISO containers highlights the shift in import patterns and underscores the importance of West Coast ports in handling increased consumer demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Seek Rail Solutions to Ease Congestion

West Coast Ports Seek Rail Solutions to Ease Congestion

A 2015 webinar focused on rail and multimodal transport, addressing issues like port congestion, rising freight rates, and a shortage of skilled logistics professionals. The discussion advocated for diversified transportation options, collaborative efforts, and innovative solutions to mitigate these challenges. The webinar highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to supply chain management to overcome bottlenecks and ensure efficient movement of goods. It emphasized the need for industry stakeholders to work together to address the talent gap and optimize multimodal transport strategies.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Senegal Customs Adopts HR Modernization Under West Africa Project

Senegal Customs Adopts HR Modernization Under West Africa Project

Funded by the Swedish government, the World Customs Organization (WCO) supported the modernization of human resources management in Senegalese Customs through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization Project. The project focused on building a competency-based human resources management system. Key tools such as job classifications, competency models, and job descriptions were developed to improve Senegalese Customs' management efficiency and international competitiveness. The initiative aims to strengthen the customs administration's capacity and contribute to regional economic development.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Enhances Customs Skills with Origin Rules Training

West Africa Enhances Customs Skills with Origin Rules Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly advancing the Rules of Origin 'Pool of Trainers' project in West Africa. A workshop held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, aimed to enhance the capacity of West African customs administrations in implementing rules of origin. The initiative focuses on developing experienced trainers and establishing a sustainable training system to facilitate trade and economic development within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Training Across West and Central Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Training Across West and Central Africa

The WCO-WACAM project aims to establish a regional pool of human resources experts for Customs administrations in West and Central Africa. Through capacity building, tool development, and follow-up support, the project enhances HR management within Customs departments, ultimately improving their efficiency and competitiveness. It emphasizes a competency-based HRM approach and develops tools such as job catalogs, competency frameworks, and job descriptions. These resources lay the foundation for Customs modernization and contribute to more effective and professional Customs operations in the region.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africas Hardware Market Growth Highlighted at WAM Expo

West Africas Hardware Market Growth Highlighted at WAM Expo

The 2025 West African Machinery Expo (WAM) in Lagos showcased the immense potential of the West African market. The exhibition brought together numerous Chinese companies, displaying the latest products and technologies. With its precise B2B matching system, WAM facilitates efficient market expansion for businesses in West Africa. More than just a product showcase, WAM serves as a crucial bridge for Sino-African trade, providing invaluable market opportunities for Chinese enterprises.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West Africas Home Goods Market Expands Amid Nigeria Show

West Africas Home Goods Market Expands Amid Nigeria Show

The 2025 Home Show Nigeria successfully concluded, showcasing a global collection of home products. Driven by a dual approach of "localized design + global manufacturing," the exhibition provided an excellent platform for businesses to efficiently connect with the West African market through eight themed zones, high-end forums, and intelligent matchmaking. In 2026, Home Show Nigeria will be fully upgraded to build a home furnishing trade ecosystem covering the entire African continent.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West Coast Ports Struggle With Internal Conflicts During Recovery

West Coast Ports Struggle With Internal Conflicts During Recovery

The President of the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association warns that West Coast ports are facing a 'self-destructive behavior' threat, including local government 'vampirism,' labor disputes, and management chaos. These issues are causing cargo loss and weakening competitiveness. The article calls for reshaping port governance, improving management efficiency, improving labor relations, and increasing investment in infrastructure construction to avoid the continued decline of West Coast ports and revitalize their position in global trade.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cargill Commits to Deforestationfree Traceable Cocoa in West Africa

Cargill Commits to Deforestationfree Traceable Cocoa in West Africa

Cargill launched the "Protect Our Planet" plan to achieve 100% traceability of cocoa beans and commit to ending deforestation in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. Covering multiple cocoa-producing regions, the plan aims to eliminate deforestation from the supply chain by 2030. Through digital mapping, barcode tracking, and other technologies, it enhances supply chain transparency and collaborates with smallholder farmers to promote the sustainable development of the cocoa industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West African Customs Officials Trained on Rules of Origin

West African Customs Officials Trained on Rules of Origin

The WCO and JICA are collaborating on a Rules of Origin training program in West Africa. This initiative focuses on developing 'trainers' to enhance customs capacity in the region. The project aims to equip customs officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement and manage Rules of Origin, particularly in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By strengthening customs capacity, the program seeks to facilitate trade and address the challenges posed by the AfCFTA.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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