WCO Launches Enhanced Trade Efficiency Training Course

WCO Launches Enhanced Trade Efficiency Training Course

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched an upgraded Time Release Study (TRS) CLiKC! course, designed to help customs administrations measure cargo release times, optimize processes, and improve efficiency. The course covers all phases of the TRS methodology, emphasizing practical application through case studies, exercises, and role-playing to enhance participants' skills. This initiative supports trade facilitation and benefits the global economy. WCO members can access the course for free on the CLiKC! platform. It aims to enhance customs efficiency and reduce release times for goods.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Crossborder Ecommerce Faces Customs Valuation Challenges

Crossborder Ecommerce Faces Customs Valuation Challenges

The World Customs Organization issued Advisory Opinion 23.1, clarifying that low-price transactions of flash sale goods can be used as a basis for customs valuation, provided they comply with the Valuation Agreement and the transaction is genuine and valid. This opinion guides cross-border e-commerce enterprises in compliant declaration, reduces trade risks, and provides customs authorities with scientific valuation methods, promoting the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce. It emphasizes adherence to existing valuation principles while acknowledging the unique characteristics of flash sales.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bangladesh Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Study

Bangladesh Enhances Trade Efficiency with Wcobacked Study

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) held a strategic dialogue with the National Board of Revenue (NBR) of Bangladesh in February 2021 to strengthen Bangladesh's Time Release Study (TRS) capabilities. The meeting reviewed Bangladesh Customs' TRS experience and developed a future action plan to improve clearance efficiency and promote trade facilitation. The aim is to streamline processes and reduce the time required for goods to be released from customs control, ultimately boosting trade competitiveness.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Effective Product Strategies Boost Sales on Douyins Ecommerce Platform

Effective Product Strategies Boost Sales on Douyins Ecommerce Platform

This article delves into the core logic and practical techniques of product selection for TikTok Shop, emphasizing the importance of high profit margins, trending topics, and differentiated competition. It provides strategies such as focusing on niche markets, uncovering niche products, and capitalizing on seasonal goods. The article also reminds sellers that product selection should align with store positioning, focus on sourcing advantages, conduct data analysis, and manage risks. Ultimately, it aims to help merchants achieve daily sales of thousands of orders on TikTok Shop.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazons Second Prime Day Stirs Growth Concerns

Amazons Second Prime Day Stirs Growth Concerns

Amazon's Prime Fall Deal sales fell short of expectations, raising questions about the sustainability of the Prime Day model. While helpful for clearing inventory, consumer fatigue with frequent promotions is becoming apparent. Amazon may need to adjust its strategy, shifting from price wars to offering higher-quality goods and services to address growth challenges. The weaker-than-expected performance suggests a need for Amazon to re-evaluate its promotional approach and focus on long-term customer value rather than solely relying on short-term sales boosts.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chickfila Opens Kansas City Distribution Center to Boost Supply Chain

Chickfila Opens Kansas City Distribution Center to Boost Supply Chain

Chick-fil-A plans to open a new distribution center in Kansas City, investing $31 million and creating over 60 jobs to expand its supply chain operations. This initiative aims to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and better serve its growing network of restaurants. Kansas City was selected as an ideal logistics hub due to its strategic geographic location, workforce resources, and potential for economic growth. The new center will streamline the flow of goods and support Chick-fil-A's continued expansion in the region.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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EU Tightens VAT Rules for Express Shipments

EU Tightens VAT Rules for Express Shipments

This article provides an in-depth analysis of VAT requirements for express deliveries to EU countries, detailing the VAT number needs in various scenarios (business/individual recipient, high/low value goods, B2B/B2C trade). It also explains key concepts such as IOSS and EORI numbers. Furthermore, the article offers practical compliance advice to help cross-border e-commerce sellers and international trade participants clear customs smoothly and reduce logistical risks. This guide aims to navigate the complexities of EU VAT regulations for international shipments.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Tariffs Risk Making Christmas Most Expensive Ever

US Tariffs Risk Making Christmas Most Expensive Ever

Impacted by tariffs, the U.S. is experiencing its 'most expensive Christmas' with widespread price increases on holiday goods. Limited tariff relief and the inability of domestic manufacturing to fully absorb demand have led Chinese manufacturers to adjust their global strategies. This highlights the real-world impact of trade policies and the fragility of global supply chains, underscoring the importance of addressing the challenges of globalization. The price surge reflects the complex interplay between international trade, consumer spending, and the resilience of global production networks.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Rail Merger Delay Threatens 85B Supply Chain Impact

US Rail Merger Delay Threatens 85B Supply Chain Impact

The delayed submission of the $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern has sent shockwaves through the industry. This merger aims to create a transcontinental railroad empire spanning the East and West coasts of the United States. However, it faces opposition from competitor BNSF and concerns from labor unions. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) ultimate decision will determine the future landscape of the American railroad industry, impacting supply chains and competition. The outcome will significantly reshape how goods are transported across the nation.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Retailers Stockpile Imports Amid Strike Fears for Holidays

US Retailers Stockpile Imports Amid Strike Fears for Holidays

Unexpectedly high US import volumes are observed amidst the threat of East Coast and Gulf Coast port strikes, reflecting retailers' early stockpiling for the holiday season. Labor negotiations stalemate increases uncertainty, prompting retailers to diversify ports and prepare inventory in advance. Experts suggest that renewed congestion and tariff impacts also contribute to the surge in imports. Retailers are proactively managing uncertainty to ensure a successful holiday sales season. This proactive approach aims to mitigate potential disruptions and maintain a steady flow of goods to meet consumer demand.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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