US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

Descartes' latest report reveals a slight month-over-month increase in US container imports for June, but a year-over-year decline. Imports from China continue to fall, while Southeast Asia is gaining prominence. West Coast ports are regaining market share, with the Port of Los Angeles showing strong performance. The report emphasizes the importance for businesses to monitor policy changes, optimize supply chains, enhance digitalization, strengthen risk management, and embrace innovation to navigate the evolving trade landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Port Imports Drop Sharply As Trade Tensions Strain Supply Chains

US Port Imports Drop Sharply As Trade Tensions Strain Supply Chains

A Descartes report reveals a significant drop in U.S. container imports in May. This decline is attributed to trade policies and geopolitical influences, particularly a sharp decrease in imports from China, heavily impacting West Coast ports. Businesses need to adapt by diversifying sourcing strategies and strengthening supply chain management to mitigate the challenges posed by trade volatility. The report highlights the increasing vulnerability of global supply chains to ongoing trade friction and the need for proactive risk mitigation strategies.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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WCO Training Enhances African Customs Wildlife Trafficking Crackdown

WCO Training Enhances African Customs Wildlife Trafficking Crackdown

The WCO INAMA project conducted basic intelligence training in Kenya to enhance the capacity of African customs administrations to combat illegal wildlife trade. The training focused on the intelligence cycle, risk assessment, and international cooperation, emphasizing the crucial role of customs in protecting endangered wildlife resources. It promoted collaboration among various stakeholders to effectively combat wildlife crime. The initiative aims to strengthen regional efforts in disrupting trafficking networks and safeguarding biodiversity by equipping customs officers with essential intelligence skills.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Comoros Customs Boosts Disaster Resilience with WCO Aid

Comoros Customs Boosts Disaster Resilience with WCO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its COVID-19 Project, supported Comoros Customs in enhancing its disaster management capabilities. This included risk assessment, expedited clearance procedures, facilitation of vaccine transportation, and ensuring supply chain continuity. Workshops fostered international cooperation and provided technical and financial assistance to Comoros Customs. The initiative aims to build a more resilient nation by strengthening its customs' ability to respond effectively to future crises and disruptions, thereby safeguarding trade and protecting the Comorian population.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Rules Ease Customs for Crossborder Ecommerce

New Rules Ease Customs for Crossborder Ecommerce

A WCO report analyzes the customs clearance challenges of low-value goods in cross-border e-commerce, focusing on facilitation and risk management. It proposes optimization solutions such as intelligentization and international cooperation to improve efficiency and security. The report highlights the growing importance of addressing these challenges to ensure smooth trade flows and effective revenue collection in the rapidly expanding cross-border e-commerce landscape. It emphasizes the need for modernized customs procedures and enhanced collaboration between stakeholders.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ethiopia Boosts Trade Compliance with WCO Audit Support

Ethiopia Boosts Trade Compliance with WCO Audit Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Ethiopia in enhancing its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities, aiming to create an efficient and compliant trade environment by optimizing customs controls, improving clearance efficiency, and promoting business compliance. The workshop covered PCA concepts, risk management, audit processes, and valuation challenges. It aims to improve the professional skills of Ethiopian customs officers and inject new vitality into the country's trade development. This initiative contributes to trade facilitation and strengthens customs capacity within Ethiopia.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Chief Stresses Customs Key Role in Global Supply Chain Resilience

WCO Chief Stresses Customs Key Role in Global Supply Chain Resilience

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization emphasized at the Asian Development Bank Institute Annual Conference that global supply chains face multiple challenges including digitalization, data standardization, disruptive technologies, e-commerce development, environmental issues, and border conflicts. Customs plays a crucial role in enhancing supply chain resilience by strengthening risk management, simplifying customs clearance, fostering international cooperation, applying technology, and building personnel capacity. Enhanced cooperation among border agencies is essential to jointly maintain trade security and facilitation.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

The WCO assisted Uganda in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, enhancing customs capabilities. This support focused on optimizing strategic planning, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and risk management. A multi-year development plan was also formulated to guide Uganda Customs in its modernization efforts, streamlining processes and improving efficiency in line with international standards. The collaboration aims to facilitate trade and boost economic growth in Uganda through enhanced customs procedures and improved border management.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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INAMA Initiative Expands Antiwildlife Trafficking in Africa Asia

INAMA Initiative Expands Antiwildlife Trafficking in Africa Asia

The INAMA project supports customs authorities in nine African and Asian countries, enhancing their capacity to combat illegal wildlife trade through expert support missions. These missions focus on training, legislation, risk management, and action plans. The project promotes international cooperation, improves enforcement capabilities, and protects biodiversity, aiming to build a strong defense against ecological threats. By strengthening customs controls and fostering collaboration, INAMA contributes to the global effort to conserve endangered species and maintain ecological balance.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Backs Benins Customs Reform to Boost Cotonou Port Trade

WCO Backs Benins Customs Reform to Boost Cotonou Port Trade

With the assistance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Benin has launched a customs reform and modernization strategy. The aim is to improve the efficiency of the Port of Cotonou, optimize clearance procedures, strengthen risk management, and introduce advanced technologies. Through international tenders and expert support, the action plan is continuously adjusted to meet the needs of port expansion and modernization. Initial monitoring missions assess the progress of the reforms, laying the foundation for Benin's economic development.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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