Brazil Study Reveals Trade Facilitation Opportunities

Brazil Study Reveals Trade Facilitation Opportunities

Brazil's first national Time Release Study (TRS) revealed an average release time of 7.5 days, with customs clearance accounting for less than 10% and private sector processes exceeding half. The study, following the WCO methodology, aims to enhance transparency and promote trade facilitation, with plans to publicly release the raw data. The research underscores the critical role of data-driven approaches in optimizing customs procedures and fostering trade facilitation. It highlights areas for improvement within both public and private sectors to streamline the overall import/export process.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Nicaragua Launches AEO Trade Security Pilot with NORAD Support

Nicaragua Launches AEO Trade Security Pilot with NORAD Support

With support from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) and the World Customs Organization (WCO), Nicaraguan Customs launched an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) pilot program. This initiative aims to optimize customs procedures and enhance trade security and efficiency through capacity building and Time Release Study (TRS). The program seeks to streamline the flow of goods, reduce release times, and contribute to Nicaragua's economic development by fostering a more secure and efficient trading environment. Ultimately, the AEO program is expected to boost international trade and investment.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Streamlining Export Customs Compliance

Guide to Streamlining Export Customs Compliance

This article provides a detailed analysis of each step in the export customs declaration process. It covers aspects such as preparing customs declaration documents, pre-entry and verification of customs declaration forms, electronic port declaration, customs document review and response, printing formal customs declaration forms, organizing and submitting customs declaration forms, on-site declaration and acceptance, tax assessment and payment, tax bill verification, inspection, release, and customs clearance. The aim is to help companies efficiently and compliantly complete customs clearance procedures.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Key Steps for Efficient Customs Clearance in Global Shipping

Key Steps for Efficient Customs Clearance in Global Shipping

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the key processes involved in international shipping customs clearance. It covers essential steps such as document preparation, pre-declaration, inspection, customs declaration, tax payment, and cargo release. The insights aim to help industry practitioners understand and smoothly navigate the requirements of maritime customs clearance.

04/02/2025 Customs Knowledge
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TTW Key Document for Dutch Customs Clearance

TTW Key Document for Dutch Customs Clearance

TTW (Toestemming Tot Wegvoering) is a necessary document for the release of imported goods by Dutch customs, marking the liberation of goods from customs supervision. Understanding the application and acquisition process of TTW is crucial for the economic benefits and logistics operations of businesses.

08/05/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Sudan Initiates Customs Study to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Sudan Initiates Customs Study to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Sudan Customs, in collaboration with the World Customs Organization, launched a National Time Release Study (TRS) in 2015 to improve customs clearance efficiency and optimize the trade environment. Through workshops, representatives analyzed Sudan's current customs clearance processes and developed a roadmap for action. The implementation of the TRS is expected to identify bottlenecks, streamline procedures, reduce operational costs for businesses, and enhance trade competitiveness, injecting new vitality into Sudan's economic development.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Assessment Enhances Zambias Trade Facilitation Efforts

WCO Assessment Enhances Zambias Trade Facilitation Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a trade facilitation capacity assessment in Zambia, focusing on time release studies, coordinated border management, data harmonization, and single window development. The assessment provided specific recommendations aimed at enhancing internal capabilities within the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and establishing a timeline for implementing the time release study. This supports Zambia's trade facilitation reforms by identifying areas for improvement and offering a roadmap for achieving greater efficiency in customs procedures and border management.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Xray Inspection Streamlines Global Customs Clearance Processes

Xray Inspection Streamlines Global Customs Clearance Processes

X-ray inspection, as a non-intrusive method used by customs, enhances logistics efficiency. During this process, containers are scanned with specialized equipment, and customs assesses the X-ray images to determine whether to release them or conduct further inspections. This typically takes 1-3 days, depending on port congestion. Cargo owners can optimize the customs clearance process through effective preparation and communication.

08/05/2025 Customs Knowledge
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US Importers Face Complex Customs Clearance Process

US Importers Face Complex Customs Clearance Process

This article provides a detailed explanation of the customs clearance process for international sea freight arriving at US ports. It covers key stages, including pre-clearance preparation (document preparation), customs declaration (electronic and paper filing), customs inspection and release, and post-clearance procedures. This guide helps you navigate the clearance process efficiently and ensure smooth import operations into the United States.

11/03/2025 Customs Knowledge
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