EUWCO Project Supports African Free Trade with Harmonized Rules

EUWCO Project Supports African Free Trade with Harmonized Rules

The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme aims to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by 2025. It focuses on finalizing the rules of origin, harmonizing key African origin regimes, and developing a community of practice for rules of origin. This initiative is expected to lay the groundwork for economic prosperity in Africa by facilitating trade and ensuring the smooth implementation of the AfCFTA agreement. The program will contribute to a more predictable and transparent trade environment across the continent.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US STB Extends Comment Period on Rail Switching Proposal

US STB Extends Comment Period on Rail Switching Proposal

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the comment deadline for its “Reciprocal Switching” proposal, which aims to provide poorly served freight rail shippers with the option to access other rail carriers. The new proposal establishes three key performance standards: service reliability, consistency, and local service. It also requires Class I railroads to provide historical data on service metrics. Industry response to the proposal has been mixed, but there's general agreement that it's intended to improve the quality of rail service.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Yellow Corp Bankruptcy Spurs Freight Industry Shakeup

Yellow Corp Bankruptcy Spurs Freight Industry Shakeup

Yellow Corp. faces labor disputes and debt pressure, leading to freight diversion risks. A TD Cowen report suggests ABF Freight and TForce Freight could benefit. The key lies in whether Yellow can reach an agreement with the union and secure financing. Shippers should assess the risks and diversify their carrier options. The ongoing situation highlights the volatility within the LTL sector and the importance of contingency planning for shippers reliant on Yellow's services. The outcome will significantly impact the competitive landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West Coast Port Labor Talks Ease Congestion for WA Agriculture

West Coast Port Labor Talks Ease Congestion for WA Agriculture

Progress is expected in the West Coast port labor negotiations, with a preliminary agreement potentially reached between the ILWU and PMA, alleviating the challenges faced by Washington State's agricultural exports. Port congestion has severely impacted the local economy, necessitating data-driven solutions for businesses to optimize their supply chains. Establishing diversified and resilient strategies is crucial to mitigating future disruptions and ensuring continued economic stability in the region. These measures are vital for navigating the ongoing complexities of global trade.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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UPS Wins USPS Air Cargo Contract Altering Logistics Sector

UPS Wins USPS Air Cargo Contract Altering Logistics Sector

UPS has won the US Postal Service's air cargo contract, signaling a reshaping of the competitive landscape in the logistics market. This article delves into the reasons behind the contract shift, exploring the impacts on UPS, FedEx, and USPS. It also examines the potential response strategies of each party and forecasts strategic choices in the face of industry changes. The analysis highlights the evolving dynamics and competitive pressures within the air cargo sector as major players adjust to the new agreement.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO and ICC Partner to Strengthen WTO Customs Valuation Rules

WCO and ICC Partner to Strengthen WTO Customs Valuation Rules

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have a long-standing collaboration to promote the global application of the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement. In 2000, they issued a joint declaration aimed at promoting uniform, transparent, and fair customs valuation standards. This collaboration seeks to foster global trade compliance, transparency, and facilitation, ultimately reducing trade costs for businesses. The joint efforts emphasize the importance of consistent and predictable customs valuation practices for efficient and equitable international trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Imports Rise As Buyers Brace for Potential Tariffs

US Imports Rise As Buyers Brace for Potential Tariffs

Despite the US port labor agreement averting strike risks, US importers are proactively stockpiling goods in anticipation of potential tariff increases, leading to a surge in import volumes. The latest Port Tracker report forecasts this trend to continue into 2025, analyzing import volume fluctuations in the coming months. It also highlights the potential for a short-term import decline due to the Lunar New Year. The report focuses on the impact of tariffs and proactive measures taken by importers on US port activity.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Import Boom Driven by Tariff Worries Retail Stockpiling

US Import Boom Driven by Tariff Worries Retail Stockpiling

The National Retail Federation reports that potential tariff hikes by the Trump administration are driving a surge in US imports, despite a port labor agreement. Retailers are stockpiling goods to avoid higher costs, leading to increased import volumes. The report forecasts that import volumes in the coming months will be influenced by various factors, including Lunar New Year factory shutdowns. Retailers are trying to mitigate potential cost increases before the new tariffs take effect, impacting supply chains and import patterns.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Guide to Streamlining Air Cargo with Charter Flights

Guide to Streamlining Air Cargo with Charter Flights

This article details the processes, responsibility divisions, and key considerations for air cargo charter and block space agreement (BSA) transportation. It covers charter application, contract signing, transport documents, escort arrangements, tonnage utilization, liability, and cost settlement. The characteristics of BSA are also briefly described. This aims to provide a practical guide for professionals involved in air freight operations, particularly concerning full aircraft charters and securing guaranteed space on scheduled flights. The guide focuses on ensuring smooth and efficient cargo transportation while clearly defining responsibilities and financial aspects.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Japan Airlines Expands Cargo Routes with PEKTYOORD Service

Japan Airlines Expands Cargo Routes with PEKTYOORD Service

This article provides an in-depth analysis of Japan Airlines' (JL) Chicago Blocked Space Agreement route (PEK-TYO-ORD), offering detailed transfer information, trucking points and times, and operational considerations. It elaborates on key aspects like booking, customs declaration, cargo handover, transit, and customs clearance. The aim is to provide freight customers with a comprehensive operational guide, enabling them to efficiently complete their freight tasks. This guide focuses on optimizing the entire process for smoother and faster cargo movement through this specific JL route.

09/26/2025 Airlines
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