Antigua and Barbuda Customs Launches Fiveyear Modernization Plan

Antigua and Barbuda Customs Launches Fiveyear Modernization Plan

Antigua and Barbuda Customs is implementing a five-year strategy in response to the World Customs Organization's Mercator Program. This initiative aims to modernize customs operations, promote economic development, and enhance international competitiveness. The strategic plan focuses on streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and aligning with global best practices. By embracing international standards and modern technologies, Antigua and Barbuda Customs seeks to facilitate trade, strengthen border security, and contribute to the nation's sustainable economic growth. This modernization effort is crucial for attracting investment and fostering a more competitive business environment.

DRC Zambia Launch Tradeboosting Customs Link

DRC Zambia Launch Tradeboosting Customs Link

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia are collaborating on a customs systems interconnectivity project at the Kasumbalesa border post to enhance cross-border trade efficiency. Supported by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), the project has established a steering committee and developed a work plan. Data exchange is expected to commence in May 2025, significantly reducing trade costs and promoting regional integration. This initiative underscores the commitment of both nations to streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth through enhanced customs cooperation.

WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

WCO Enhances Customs Training to Strengthen Environmental Protection

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Train-the-Trainer workshop in Kenya, focusing on the Basel and Montreal Conventions. Through capacity building, the WCO aims to assist national customs administrations in improving compliance, combating illegal trade, and protecting the environment. The Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization (TFCM) Programme provides technical assistance to relevant customs agencies to address trade-related environmental issues and promote sustainable development. This initiative empowers customs officers to effectively enforce environmental regulations and contribute to global environmental protection efforts.

UN Urges Aviation Industry to Tackle Singleuse Plastics

UN Urges Aviation Industry to Tackle Singleuse Plastics

The UN urges the aviation industry to collaborate with governments to address the 6 million tons of single-use plastic waste generated annually. It highlights the potential health risks of microplastics and the importance of a global plastics agreement. Recommendations include improving recyclability throughout the plastic lifecycle (production, usage, and recycling), encouraging retailers to reduce plastic use, and establishing robust recycling systems. The call is for the aviation sector to set clear plastic reduction targets and embrace sustainable development practices to mitigate the environmental impact of single-use plastics.

Airline Targets Contrails to Reduce Climate Impact

Airline Targets Contrails to Reduce Climate Impact

The aviation industry is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions, but non-CO2 emissions, such as contrails, also impact the climate. Contrail formation is related to various factors, making impact assessment complex. Adjusting flight routes is a potential mitigation strategy. The scientific community is conducting large-scale observational studies to reveal the impact of contrails and provide a scientific basis for the sustainable development of the aviation industry. These studies aim to better understand contrail formation, lifespan, and radiative forcing to inform effective mitigation measures and policies.

Aviation Giant Aviator Enhances Airport Efficiency Worldwide

Aviation Giant Aviator Enhances Airport Efficiency Worldwide

Aviator, a company within Avia Solutions Group, provides comprehensive aviation ground handling services, including passenger and baggage handling, aircraft de-icing, cargo handling, and airport security. Leveraging its strong resources and global operational experience, Aviator is dedicated to delivering customized solutions to airports worldwide. The company focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and actively exploring new technologies to contribute to sustainable airport development. Aviator aims to be a reliable partner for airports seeking to optimize their ground operations and improve overall performance in a dynamic and evolving industry.

01/20/2026 Airlines
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Spain Aims to Boost Economy Through Air Transport Reforms

Spain Aims to Boost Economy Through Air Transport Reforms

The Spanish air transport industry significantly contributes to the national economy but faces challenges including airspace efficiency, airport capacity, and charges. This report recommends enhancing Spain's aviation competitiveness through a national airspace strategy, ensuring sufficient airport capacity, developing multimodal transportation, and fostering air cargo development. These measures aim to boost economic growth by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the aviation sector, addressing existing bottlenecks, and promoting seamless integration with other modes of transport. Ultimately, a more competitive aviation industry will lead to greater economic prosperity for Spain.

WCO Launches Global Program to Enhance Customs Efficiency

WCO Launches Global Program to Enhance Customs Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched the second round of its Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM), inviting members to participate in self-assessment. This initiative aims to help national customs administrations identify challenges, improve operations, and receive targeted capacity building assistance from the WCO. The PMM comprehensively evaluates customs performance in areas such as trade facilitation, revenue collection, and enforcement. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of customs worldwide, thereby fostering international trade development and contributing to a more secure and predictable global trading environment.

Lima Airport Transfer Tax Raises Airline Competition Fears

Lima Airport Transfer Tax Raises Airline Competition Fears

The implementation of an international transit tax at Lima Airport in Peru has drawn criticism from IATA, who argue it weakens the airport's competitiveness and limits growth. IATA urges the government and airport authorities to collaborate on sustainable alternatives that protect passenger interests, foster aviation development, and enhance Peru's connectivity and competitiveness. They believe the tax hinders the airport's ability to attract connecting flights and ultimately harms the Peruvian economy. Finding a viable solution is crucial for ensuring the long-term success of Lima Airport and the broader aviation industry in Peru.

Guide to HS Code Chapter 41 Raw Hides and Leather Explained

Guide to HS Code Chapter 41 Raw Hides and Leather Explained

This article provides a detailed interpretation of Chapter 41 of the HS Code, "Raw hides and skins (other than furskins) and leather," covering an overview of the chapter, interpretation of notes, analysis of specific items, processing techniques, application fields, and trade applications. It aims to provide comprehensive and professional knowledge for practitioners, traders, and consumers in the leather industry, contributing to the prosperity and development of the industry. This includes understanding the nuances of leather trade regulations and the implications of the HS code for different types of leather and leather products.