This article explores key trends in the logistics industry of Latin America for 2025, including supply chain visualization, the application of generative artificial intelligence, and the transformation of customs processes. It presents optimization strategies and highlights the importance of businesses adapting to complex market environments.
South Asian countries like India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka are enhancing trade efficiency and convenience through customs modernization. Digital platforms, trade agreements, and policy improvements are driving innovations in customs procedures, injecting new momentum into regional economic growth and global market competitiveness.
The trade landscape in the Middle East is rapidly changing, with countries reforming customs processes to promote the development of the non-oil economy. Saudi Arabia's total trade reached $286 billion in 2023, highlighting its regional dominance. As nations like Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait actively expand international trade and seek economic diversification, customs reform is playing a crucial role. Partnering with efficient logistics providers will be key for businesses to navigate the complexities of customs.
Shenzhen's 'Bay Area Number' train service has innovatively launched a new mode of iron-road combined transport, enhancing export efficiency and reducing logistics costs. This model saves transfer time, improves customs clearance efficiency, and promotes economic cooperation between Guangdong and Xinjiang, helping businesses tap into the Central Asian market.
With the support of the Municipal Port Authority and Customs, Qingdao Airport has established an efficient 'air-to-air transfer' cargo system. By July, the throughput of international and domestic cargo and mail grew by 81%, achieving a 29.34% increase in domestic cargo volume and a 2.1% increase in international cargo volume. Qingdao Airport connects logistics companies through high-quality services, promoting the efficient development of air freight.
Luzhou Port's Bonded Logistics Center (Type B) has officially begun operations, becoming the fourth Customs Special Supervision Zone in Sichuan Province. This center aims to provide efficient policy support and logistics solutions for enterprises, promoting local economic development and serving as an important platform for regional openness. In the future, the Luzhou Port Bonded Logistics Center will be developed into a fully modernized logistics service center, contributing to the growth of the Sichuan-Yunnan-Guizhou-Chongqing junction.
In the first three quarters of this year, the Qianhai Bay Free Trade Port in Shenzhen achieved a cross-border e-commerce clearance value of 430 million yuan, a staggering increase of 48.5 times year-on-year. This remarkable growth is attributed to innovative measures introduced by Shenzhen Customs, such as expedited clearance and integrated operations within the port area, which significantly improved efficiency and reduced costs for businesses. Moreover, the development of foreign trade enterprises was further promoted through internet platforms and dedicated services, enhancing the appeal of the free trade zone.
Starting from August 1, customs has implemented a new integrated declaration mechanism for import and export goods, merging the customs declaration and inspection forms into a single new declaration. This reform aims to optimize the declaration process, increase customs clearance efficiency, and significantly reduce the workload and labor costs for enterprises, with an expected improvement in clearance speed of 20-30%. Additionally, customs has provided necessary training for businesses to ensure a smooth transition to the new system, ultimately enhancing their competitiveness and participation.
The severe congestion at Lagos Port has resulted in over 4,000 containers being delayed, prompting industry calls for customs auctions. High clearance fees and dock charges are forcing importers to abandon their goods, creating a vicious cycle. The government urgently needs to implement effective measures to improve the port's condition to avoid economic losses and prevent goods from spoiling.
The first "Chimanou" international freight train set off from Chifeng on September 17, carrying 1,100 tons of lysine directly to Russia. The journey covers 9,000 kilometers, taking 10-12 days one way. By utilizing an efficient customs declaration model, companies can benefit from expedited clearance services, significantly improving foreign trade transportation efficiency and enhancing regional economic growth and international competitiveness.
