WCO Releases Arabic Audit Guide to Enhance Middle East Trade Compliance

WCO Releases Arabic Audit Guide to Enhance Middle East Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released the Arabic version of the 'Post-Clearance Audit Guidelines' to assist Arabic-speaking members in effectively implementing post-clearance audits, enhancing trade compliance, optimizing customs control, and promoting international trade facilitation. Translated by Jordan Customs, the guidelines cover risk management, operational guidance, and digital transformation, contributing to the construction of an intelligent, efficient, and collaborative post-clearance audit system. This aims to improve overall customs effectiveness and streamline trade processes within the region.

IRU Training Enhances Customs Efficiency and Trade Security

IRU Training Enhances Customs Efficiency and Trade Security

IRU's TIR-EPD training enhances customs efficiency and trade security. This program focuses on leveraging the Electronic Pre-Declaration (EPD) system to facilitate trade and improve risk management. By equipping customs officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to utilize EPD effectively, the training contributes to faster border crossings, reduced delays, and a more secure supply chain. Ultimately, the TIR-EPD training promotes seamless international road transport and strengthens global trade relationships through improved customs procedures.

Uschina Phase One Trade Deal Faces Tariff Challenges

Uschina Phase One Trade Deal Faces Tariff Challenges

The US and China officially signed the "Phase One" trade agreement, involving tariff adjustments and procurement commitments. The agreement reduced some tariffs, but the effectiveness of its implementation remains to be seen. Businesses need to pay attention to shipping data and policy changes, diversify procurement sources, optimize supply chains, and strengthen risk management to seize opportunities in the new trade landscape. Monitoring key indicators and adapting strategies will be crucial for navigating the evolving US-China trade relationship.

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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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.

Albania Joins Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Albania Joins Kyoto Convention to Enhance Trade

Albania's accession to the Revised Kyoto Convention brings the number of contracting parties to 86, further promoting global trade facilitation. The Convention aims to reduce trade costs and improve customs clearance efficiency by simplifying customs procedures, applying information technology, implementing risk management, and strengthening international cooperation. This provides new impetus for global economic development. The revised Kyoto Convention is a key instrument for harmonizing and simplifying customs procedures worldwide, contributing to a more efficient and predictable international trade environment.

Qatar Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Review

Qatar Customs Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Review

Qatar Customs invited the World Customs Organization (WCO) for a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic to enhance trade facilitation. WCO experts conducted an in-depth assessment of Qatar Customs' departments and offered recommendations for improvement. PCA, recognized as an efficient control method, is crucial for trade facilitation, revenue protection, and risk management. This initiative by Qatar Customs will promote corporate compliance, improve trade efficiency, and contribute to global trade facilitation efforts. The focus on PCA highlights Qatar's commitment to modernizing customs procedures and fostering a more efficient and secure trading environment.

Serbia Boosts Trade Efficiency with Datadriven Customs Reforms

Serbia Boosts Trade Efficiency with Datadriven Customs Reforms

Serbia has established a Customs-Business Round Table to enhance trade facilitation through data-driven collaboration. Supported by the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, the initiative brings together representatives from government, chambers of commerce, and businesses to address customs operational challenges and optimize trade policies. The goal is to build a more efficient business environment. By focusing on data sharing, policy optimization, and risk prediction, Serbia aims to become a regional leader in trade facilitation. This collaborative approach is expected to streamline processes and boost economic growth.

WCO Reports Palestines Progress in Mercator Trade Program

WCO Reports Palestines Progress in Mercator Trade Program

A World Customs Organization (WCO) assessment reveals Palestine's active participation in the Mercator Programme, which supports the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and simplifies trade procedures. The Palestinian Customs Administration has benefited significantly in areas such as tariffs and risk management, maintaining close ties with the private sector and neighboring customs administrations. The assessment lays the groundwork for future tailored support, and the WCO will continue to provide assistance to promote Palestinian economic development and regional trade facilitation. This collaboration aims to further streamline customs processes and enhance trade efficiency.

Air Cargo Industry Adopts Dual Risk Strategy Valuation and Insurance

Air Cargo Industry Adopts Dual Risk Strategy Valuation and Insurance

To mitigate risks associated with air cargo, shippers can adopt a dual-protection strategy: purchasing air transport insurance and declaring the value of the goods. Insurance transfers risk to the insurance company through compensation. Declared value carriage ensures the carrier assumes full liability for compensation based on the pre-declared value. This combination maximizes the shipper's protection and safeguards their interests against potential losses or damages during air transportation.