WCO Strengthens Environmental Rules to Curb Illegal Waste Trade

WCO Strengthens Environmental Rules to Curb Illegal Waste Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is strengthening its collaboration with the Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network (ENFORCE) to enhance customs' role in combating the illegal cross-border trade of waste. Through capacity building, information sharing, international cooperation, and policy advocacy, the WCO assists its member customs administrations in effectively implementing the Basel Convention. This collaborative effort aims to address global environmental challenges and build a sustainable future by preventing and countering illegal waste shipments across borders.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Seaports Prove Vital Amid Pandemic Economic Strains

US Seaports Prove Vital Amid Pandemic Economic Strains

During the pandemic, US seaports served as both frontline responders and economic engines, crucial for employment and trade. Strengthening their strategic position requires accelerated digital transformation and enhanced cooperation within the Western Hemisphere. This will bolster supply chain resilience and improve the ability of ports to navigate future disruptions. The focus on these areas is vital for ensuring the continued role of ports in supporting the US economy and facilitating international commerce in a post-pandemic world.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Madagascar Customs Boosts Classification Skills for Advance Ruling System

Madagascar Customs Boosts Classification Skills for Advance Ruling System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a capacity building workshop in Madagascar to enhance customs officers' skills in goods classification and lay the groundwork for the implementation of an advance ruling system. Funded by the EU-WCO Africa Coordination Programme, the workshop aimed to support the Madagascar Customs in establishing an advance ruling mechanism and promoting trade facilitation. The initiative is expected to improve the predictability and efficiency of customs procedures, ultimately benefiting businesses and contributing to economic growth.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Clarifies Customs Codes to Ease Global Trade

WCO Clarifies Customs Codes to Ease Global Trade

The 56th session of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Committee (HSC) released its latest classification rulings and opinions, covering items such as powdered alcohol, two-piece garments, and baby carriers. Revisions were also made to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes. These updates aim to provide import and export companies with more accurate HS code guidance, reduce trade costs, and improve customs clearance efficiency. The rulings and notes are crucial for proper commodity classification and compliance.

02/05/2026 HS Code Query
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Shipping Firms Urged to Optimize Container Sizes for Cost Savings

Shipping Firms Urged to Optimize Container Sizes for Cost Savings

This article, from a data analyst's perspective, delves into the CBM size and loading capacity of shipping containers. It provides detailed data on common container types such as 20GP, 40GP, 40HQ, and 45HQ. Using real-world examples, it guides readers to comprehensively consider factors like volume, weight, and packaging to select the most economical and efficient container solution, ultimately optimizing sea freight costs. The analysis aims to provide practical insights for businesses involved in international trade and logistics.

02/05/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Uzbekistan Boosts Trade with Faster Customs Clearance Study

Uzbekistan Boosts Trade with Faster Customs Clearance Study

Uzbekistan, with the support of the World Customs Organization and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, hosted a Time Release Study (TRS) technical workshop. The workshop aimed to strengthen capacity building, review action plans, and initiate the development of operational procedures and questionnaires. This initiative seeks to identify bottlenecks in cargo processing, enhance public-private cooperation, and streamline clearance procedures. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce trade time and costs, thereby improving Uzbekistan's international competitiveness.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Southern Africa Enhances Customs Valuation Via WCOJICA Initiative

Southern Africa Enhances Customs Valuation Via WCOJICA Initiative

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly implementing the Customs Valuation (CV) Master Trainer Program (MTP) to create a professional and sustainable pool of CV trainers in Southern Africa. The third working group activity focused on developing training materials and enhancing practical skills. The WCO and JICA are committed to continuously supporting customs capacity building in the region, building an efficient and transparent customs valuation system, and promoting trade development.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Customs Declaration Form Adds Trade Country (region) Indicator to Promote International Trade Transparency

New Customs Declaration Form Adds Trade Country (region) Indicator to Promote International Trade Transparency

The General Administration of Customs recently announced reforms to the customs declaration process, introducing a new 'Trade Country (Region)' indicator. This change aims to enhance the accuracy of customs declarations and reflect the true state of international trade, in line with the developments of economic globalization. The indicator will streamline the customs clearance process, improve efficiency, and assist businesses in conducting more effective global trade.

07/21/2025 Logistics
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Philippines Streamlines Cargo Clearance to Boost Trade Efficiency

Philippines Streamlines Cargo Clearance to Boost Trade Efficiency

The Philippines will launch a National Time Release Study (TRS) in 2025 to enhance the efficiency of customs clearance for maritime imports and exports. Spanning two weeks, the study will focus on the Manila International Container Port and has received support from the World Customs Organization and HM Revenue and Customs of the UK. The final report is expected to be completed by the end of the year, providing a basis for subsequent reforms aimed at promoting trade facilitation and enhancing national competitiveness.

07/28/2025 Logistics
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Guide to Avoiding Costly Errors in International Shipping Documents

Guide to Avoiding Costly Errors in International Shipping Documents

This article provides a detailed interpretation of key filling points for ocean bills of lading, including shipper, consignee, vessel name, loading and unloading ports, marks and numbers, goods description, gross weight and volume, freight payment, place and date of issue, etc. It offers practical guidance with real-world examples to help you avoid common mistakes and ensure the smooth arrival of your goods. This guide aims to assist in accurately completing the bill of lading, a crucial document in international trade.

08/21/2025 Document Interpretation
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