Logistics - WORLDEF

World Customs Organization Warns: Illicit Trade Shifts to E-Commerce

The “Illicit Trade Report 2025” published by the World Customs Organization revealed that cross-border movements of illicit goods are increasingly shifting toward e-commerce, postal, parcel, and express courier networks. According to the report, which is based on 163,850 cases reported by a total of 170 customs administrations, e-commerce has become a major logistics channel used in 44.8 percent of global cases.

World Customs Organization Draws Attention to Small Parcels

The report stated that 68.2 percent of counterfeit goods cases, 65.1 percent of counterfeit medical product cases, and 62.6 percent of cannabis cases were detected in parcel and postal systems. In addition, 23.9 percent of environmental crime cases and 23.6 percent of security-related cases involving weapons, restricted drones, and tactical equipment were found to be connected to these channels.

World Customs Organization Secretary General Ian Saunders stated that the use of e-commerce, postal, and courier networks by criminal organizations points to a fundamental shift in the distribution of illicit goods. Saunders said customs administrations must respond to this development with agile, intelligence-led, and forward-looking methods.

E-Commerce Channel Comes to the Fore in Synthetic Drugs

Seizures involving new psychoactive substances doubled compared with 2024, reaching 7,721 cases. Postal and courier networks were used extensively because these products can be transported in small and lightweight parcels. Fentanyl seizures accounted for 30.6 percent of opioid cases in 2025.

South Africa was recorded as a major point of origin for illicit diamonds and semi-precious stones shipped to Asia and the Middle East. Namibia ranked third worldwide in cannabis seizures with 60.6 tonnes, while South Africa ranked ninth. Global cannabis seizures reached 548.8 tonnes. The transportation of counterfeit medical products in small parcels in West and Central Africa was also identified as a significant risk.

AI-Powered Inspections on the Agenda

The World Customs Organization states that artificial intelligence and machine learning can strengthen risk assessment, fraud detection, and cargo inspections. The organization is calling for improved data quality, greater information sharing, and coordinated efforts between customs administrations and e-commerce, retail, logistics, and courier companies.

The World Customs Organization Approved Dubai Customs’ Cross-Border E-Commerce Platform as a “Global Model”

A First from Emirates SkyCargo: Passenger Aircraft Converted into a Giant Cargo Aircraft

Emirates SkyCargo became the first airline cargo carrier to commercially operate the Boeing 777-300ERSF model converted from a Boeing 777-300ER passenger aircraft. The aircraft registered as A6-EBK entered service with a flight carrying more than 100 tons of cargo from Hong Kong to Dubai. This step stood out as one of the important parts of Emirates’ fleet expansion strategy aimed at the increasing need for air cargo capacity in e-commerce, retail, and global trade logistics.

Transformation from Passenger Aircraft to Cargo for Emirates

The Boeing 777-300ERSF added to Emir ates SkyCargo’s fleet is not a model that came out of the factory as a cargo aircraft; it was prepared by converting a Boeing 777-300ER, previously used as a passenger aircraft, in a way suitable for cargo operations. During the conversion process, passenger seats, overhead baggage compartments, kitchen areas, and lavatories were removed. The aircraft’s internal structure was rearranged to carry heavy cargo pallets.

New Systems Added for Cargo Operations

A large cargo door was added to the main deck of the converted aircraft, the floor structure was strengthened, and motorized rollers, guide rails, and locking systems were installed for loading processes. In addition, smoke detection, fire suppression, ventilation, environmental control, and temperature management systems suitable for cargo operations were also put into service. Thus, the aircraft designed to carry passengers was converted into a special freighter model suitable for high-volume cargo transportation.

Emirates Increases Capacity for E-Commerce Cargo

Emirates’ converted Boeing 777-300ERSF aircraft offers a payload capacity of 100 tons and a cargo volume of 811 cubic meters. This capacity means 25 percent more cargo volume compared to the Boeing 777-F production freighter aircraft. The aircraft has 47 pallet positions, and this configuration provides 10 additional pallet positions compared to the Boeing 777-F.

These features are important especially for bulky e-commerce products, retail shipments, pharmaceuticals, perishables, and time-sensitive cargo. The fact that e-commerce products account for approximately 20 percent of global air cargo tonnage makes this transformation move by Emirates more strategic.

Fleet Expansion Move from Emirates SkyCargo

Badr Abbas, Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, stated that putting the first converted Emirates Boeing 777-300ERSF aircraft into operational service marks a new step in terms of fleet expansion and operational agility. Abbas said they aim to meet the increasing demand for air cargo capacity for the rapid transportation of products worldwide by converting former Boeing 777-300ER passenger aircraft.

Abbas also stated that, together with Boeing 777-F production freighter aircraft, they increased their global cargo network from just over 40 points in February to 62 points; and that they offer customers scalable capacity, flexibility, and connectivity through their Dubai hub.

New Converted Aircraft to Join the Fleet by 2027

The Boeing 777-300ERSF became the sixth new freighter aircraft to join Emirates SkyCargo operations since March 2026. The company plans to take delivery of five additional Boeing 777-F aircraft and one more converted Boeing 777-300ERSF by December 2026. Emirates SkyCargo aims to add three additional converted Boeing 777-ERSF aircraft to its fleet in 2027. With this fleet expansion, Emirates aims to respond to the increasing capacity needs of global trade, cross-border e-commerce, and retail logistics through its Dubai-based network.

Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous Collaborated for Drone Cargo

Amazon Tightens Fulfilled by Merchant Requirements Across Europe

Amazon is introducing stricter performance requirements for merchants using its Fulfilled by Merchant (FBM) program, signaling a stronger focus on delivery reliability and customer experience. The updated rules will require sellers to maintain higher delivery standards or risk having their listings deactivated on the marketplace.

Amazon has announced significant changes to its FBM policies, particularly in Germany and the United Kingdom, as it seeks to improve delivery performance and provide more accurate delivery promises to customers. Under the new requirements, sellers will need to maintain an On-Time Delivery Rate (OTDR) of at least 90 percent, with stricter enforcement measures beginning later this year.

Starting on September 1, 2026, German sellers that fail to meet the required delivery standards may see affected listings deactivated and could lose the ability to add new FBM products. Similar requirements are also being introduced for Amazon Business orders, where merchants will be expected to achieve at least a 90 percent business-hour delivery rate beginning September 30. Non-compliant listings for business customers may be removed from October 30 onwards.

Amazon is also tightening its handling time requirements. In the UK, account-level default handling times will be limited to zero-day and one-day options from July 15, 2026. Additionally, the company plans to automatically adjust handling times on products where sellers consistently outperform their own stated processing estimates.

Amazon Expands Fulfillment Requirements as New Cross-Border Regulations Take Effect

The policy updates coincide with new European Union customs regulations affecting cross-border e-commerce shipments. From July 1, 2026, merchants shipping low-value orders from outside the EU into the bloc must use approved carriers and provide enhanced customs documentation, including product-level information and Amazon’s Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) details for eligible shipments.

The new requirements reflect Amazon’s broader strategy of raising operational standards across its marketplace ecosystem. For merchants, the changes underscore the growing importance of delivery performance, logistics efficiency, and regulatory compliance in maintaining visibility and competitiveness on one of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms.

Source

Shipping Resumes Between Iran and UAE as Direct Cargo Routes Reopen

Iran has announced the resumption of direct cargo shipping routes from the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant step toward restoring trade connectivity between the two neighboring economies. The move could improve logistics efficiency and facilitate cross-border commerce in the Gulf region, although Emirati authorities have yet to officially comment on the development.

Iranian officials said direct cargo shipping services between the UAE and Iran have resumed, indicating that bilateral trade relations are gradually returning to normal. Ali Emami, Director-General of Logistics and Support at Iran’s Trade Development Organisation, stated that goods are once again being transported directly between the two countries.

The development follows recent signs of improving connectivity between the two nations. Earlier this week, Dubai International Airport reportedly received a direct flight from Tehran, with return services also resuming after disruptions linked to regional tensions and the recent conflict involving Iran. Iran had also announced the reactivation of trade exchanges through Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port and indicated that flights between the two countries would restart within days.

Renewed Shipping Routes Could Strengthen Gulf Trade Connectivity

The UAE and Iran have historically maintained strong commercial ties, with the UAE serving as one of Iran’s key trade and re-export partners. The restoration of direct cargo shipping routes is expected to ease supply chain pressures, reduce transit times, and lower logistics costs for businesses operating between the two markets.

For logistics providers, retailers, and e-commerce businesses, renewed maritime connectivity could create opportunities for more efficient movement of goods and strengthen regional trade flows at a time when companies are increasingly seeking resilient and diversified supply chains across the Middle East. However, operational details and the full scope of the resumption remain unclear, as Emirati authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding Iran’s announcement.

Source

UAE’s LODD Autonomous Launches Hili Cargo Aircraft Certification Program

Abu Dhabi-based LODD Autonomous has launched the formal certification program for its Hili autonomous cargo aircraft with the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), marking a significant milestone in the development of advanced air mobility and middle-mile logistics solutions.

The certification program moves Hili from development and flight testing into the pathway toward commercial operations, positioning the hybrid-electric aircraft as a potential enabler of faster and more flexible cargo transportation across the UAE and the wider region.

Designed and developed in Abu Dhabi, Hili is a hybrid-powered vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) cargo aircraft capable of carrying payloads of up to 250 kilograms over distances of up to 700 kilometers. The aircraft has been purpose-built to support civilian logistics operations, with potential applications spanning healthcare, energy, humanitarian response, offshore operations, industrial supply chains, and regional cargo transportation.

Certification Program Enters Formal Phase

The certification process will include aircraft design approval activities, airworthiness compliance demonstrations, ground and flight testing, operational evaluations, and comprehensive safety assessments. These steps are required to demonstrate compliance with applicable aviation standards before the aircraft can enter commercial service.

The program is being conducted under the supervision of the UAE’s Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, with the GCAA serving as the certifying authority. The initiative is also supported by key stakeholders in Abu Dhabi’s advanced mobility ecosystem, including the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) through its Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) Cluster.

Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, described the launch of the certification program as one of the most significant milestones in the aircraft’s development.

“The launch of the Hili certification program marks one of the most significant milestones in the evolution of the aircraft and reflects the progress we have made across design, engineering and flight testing. Entering formal certification demonstrates the maturity of the Hili program and moves Hili from development into the pathway towards commercial operations.”

Al Manai added that the company is working closely with the GCAA to demonstrate compliance with the highest standards of airworthiness and safety.

Advancing Middle-Mile Logistics

The launch of the Hili certification program comes as governments, logistics providers, and technology companies increasingly explore autonomous solutions to improve cargo transportation and supply chain resilience.

Unlike small last-mile delivery drones, Hili has been designed specifically for middle-mile logistics, enabling cargo transportation between cities, industrial zones, logistics hubs, airports, and remote operational sites without relying on conventional runway infrastructure.

The aircraft’s capabilities could prove particularly valuable for sectors requiring fast and reliable movement of goods, including healthcare supply chains, urgent spare-parts delivery, offshore energy operations, and humanitarian logistics.

As e-commerce, healthcare delivery, and regional trade continue to accelerate, demand for more flexible transportation networks is also increasing. Autonomous VTOL cargo aircraft have the potential to establish more direct routes between logistics nodes, reducing dependency on traditional road networks and enabling faster movement of critical cargo.

Upon certification, Hili is expected to support a broad range of commercial applications, including middle-mile logistics, healthcare supply chains, offshore operations, humanitarian response, and regional cargo transportation.

Abu Dhabi Strengthens Its Advanced Mobility Ambitions

The Hili certification program also reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to position itself as a global hub for smart mobility and advanced aviation technologies. By bringing together regulators, industry stakeholders, and ecosystem partners, the initiative demonstrates the emirate’s collaborative approach to developing and deploying next-generation transportation solutions.

Eng. Aqeel Al Zarooni, Assistant Director General for Aviation Safety Affairs at the GCAA, said the initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to supporting innovation while maintaining the highest aviation safety standards.

“Advanced aircraft programs such as Hili play an important role in the evolution of aviation and support the safe integration of next-generation technologies into the national aviation ecosystem.”

Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, noted that the certification of advanced autonomous aviation systems such as Hili represents an important step in strengthening Abu Dhabi’s integrated mobility ecosystem. Meanwhile, Ali AlHashmi, Head of the SAVI Cluster at ADIO, emphasized the importance of collaboration between industry, regulators, and ecosystem partners in advancing next-generation aviation technologies.

Toward Commercial Deployment

Founded in 2023, LODD Autonomous develops autonomous aviation and advanced logistics solutions from its headquarters in Abu Dhabi. As the certification process progresses, Hili could become one of the first advanced autonomous civilian aircraft to be designed, engineered, and certified in the UAE.

For the logistics and e-commerce sectors, the program highlights the growing role of autonomous aviation in the future of cargo transportation. If successfully certified and deployed, Hili could contribute to a new generation of autonomous logistics networks, enabling faster, more flexible, and more resilient movement of goods across the UAE and beyond.

The EU Has Launched a New Tax Era for Small Parcels in E-Commerce

The European Union (EU) began applying a fixed customs duty of 3 euros as of July 1, 2026, on small parcels under 150 euros entering the union through e-commerce. The regulation is of particular concern to online marketplaces that have grown with low-priced products, such as Shein, Temu and AliExpress.

According to the Council of the EU, the practice was introduced because the current duty-free entry system causes unfair competition for EU sellers, health and safety risks for consumers, high levels of fraud and environmental concerns.

New Customs Era for Small Parcels

The new practice stipulates that a 3-euro tax will be charged for each different product classification in shipments under 150 euros entering the EU. Accordingly, if a shipment contains three different types of products, the total fee may rise to 9 euros; while 3 euros will be applied to small parcels containing multiple products of the same type. It was stated that 5.8 billion e-commerce shipments under 150 euros entered the EU in 2025, while this figure was 1.4 billion in 2022.

Impact on E-Commerce Platforms and the Retail Sector

The regulation increases pressure on China-based low-cost e-commerce models. Dirk Gotink, who leads the customs reform issue in the European Parliament, said the customs exemption no longer makes sense under old trade conditions; and that e-commerce has changed the system, especially with shipments originating from China. Gotink also stated that the exemption was being used in a way that created a competitive advantage against EU businesses.

It Will Partially Reflect on Consumer Prices

The new costs are expected to be partially reflected in consumer prices. AliExpress announced that for applicable products, the information “customs duties and VAT are included in the price” will be displayed; while for other products, import costs will be presented to customers before payment.

Amazon stated that in 2025, 97 percent of its EU shipments were fulfilled from warehouses within the union; and that import fees for products coming from outside the EU would be displayed before payment. Shein, meanwhile, increased its warehouse capacity in Wroclaw, Poland, as part of its preparations for the change and moved toward sending more products to the EU through bulk shipments.

Decline Expected in Air Shipments

Experts forecast a decline of between 10 percent and 35 percent in e-commerce air shipments to the EU after the new fees come into force. In this process, retail and e-commerce companies are expected to reshape their pricing, warehouse management, cross-border logistics and AI-powered operational planning. (small parcels), (small parcels)

EU Brings Forward Customs Reform; Low-Value E-Commerce Parcels to Be Subject to Taxation

Keeta Established Cooling Centers for Couriers in the UAE

Keeta has put cooling and rest centers for delivery couriers into use in the United Arab Emirates as the impact of summer heat increases. The company’s new initiative aims to support the welfare of couriers and field teams, especially those working outdoors.

The facilities, placed at strategic points across the UAE, will operate together with dedicated courier support points within Keeta’s operational areas. In these areas, couriers will be provided with essential amenities such as air-conditioned environments, free cold drinks, seating areas, and the opportunity to rest, meet their hydration needs, and recover during the day.

Summer Support for Couriers with Keeta

The rise in temperatures during the summer months in the UAE is bringing occupational safety and employee welfare back to the agenda, especially for those working outdoors. Companies operating in the rapidly growing delivery sector have recently been investing in more comprehensive support infrastructure, health measures, and safety practices for couriers.

Keeta’s cooling centers are also positioned as part of this approach. The company stated that the program is designed not only to address daily operational needs, but also to respond to the real needs of delivery partners working under summer conditions.

“We Are Creating a Safer and More Supportive Working Environment”

Colin Xu, Head of Logistics Operations at Keeta UAE, said that delivery couriers are at the center of the company’s operations and the service they provide across the UAE. Xu said, “During the summer months, our support for couriers must be practical, accessible, and responsive to the needs on the ground. By increasing access to cooled rest areas, hydration points, and dedicated support facilities, we are strengthening our commitment to courier welfare and creating a safer, more supportive working environment for the people who keep our platform running.”

A Broader Strategy for Courier Welfare

Keeta announced that the program is part of its broader strategy to strengthen courier welfare. The company aims to ensure that delivery partners can access facilities that take into account working conditions during the UAE summer.

Beyond practical needs such as hydration and rest, the initiative also aims to create areas where couriers can take breaks during working hours, communicate with their colleagues, and develop a stronger sense of community.

The company reported that it will continue to collect feedback from couriers throughout the summer period. Keeta aims to improve the program with this feedback and ensure that the facilities remain accessible, useful, and aligned with the daily needs of couriers. The initiative is considered a reflection of the company’s commitment to supporting delivery partners in the long term and providing reliable service to customers across the UAE.

Keeta Completed Its Nationwide Launch Across the UAE

JD.com Founder Liu: A Day Will Come When Couriers Will No Longer Be Needed!

Richard Liu, Founder and Chairman of Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com, made striking statements about the future of the courier profession. Liu said that robots will be used more widely in parcel delivery, adding that the need for couriers could largely decrease in the future. This statement has once again brought automation debates in the fields of e-commerce, logistics, and employment to the agenda.

The Robot Era in Courier Services

In his assessment at the APEC China CEO Forum, Richard Liu emphasized that robots will take a more active role in delivery processes. Liu said, “When robots deliver parcels in the future, sooner or later there will come a day when couriers will basically no longer be needed.”

JD.com has approximately 700,000 delivery workers. Stating that they are aware of the risks this transformation may create for employees, Liu said, “I truly do not want our 700,000 brothers to be left without food or jobs.”

JD.com’s Reskilling Plan for Employees

The company has launched an internal transformation program called “Nirvana” to reduce the impact of the automation process on employees. Within this scope, JD.com aims to train courier workers in new fields by collaborating with approximately 120 schools across China.

The program focuses on new occupational fields such as robot maintenance technician, robot repair, and artificial intelligence trainer. According to Liu’s statements, the company wants to protect the income and job security of frontline employees during the process in which robots are introduced.

The Automation Race in Logistics Is Accelerating

JD.com has long been investing in technologies such as unmanned warehouses, autonomous delivery vehicles, drone delivery, and smart delivery points. The company’s logistics arm, JD Logistics, operates more than 3,600 warehouses in China. In addition, the company has begun expanding its international logistics network by launching JoyExpress, its first overseas consumer-focused express delivery service, in Saudi Arabia.

A Critical Question for Courier Employment

According to experts, robotic delivery systems have the potential to reduce costs, increase delivery speed, and provide operational efficiency. However, this transformation also creates serious employment uncertainty for millions of couriers and gig economy workers. JD.com’s plan aims to support employees with new skills in a sector where automation is inevitable. Nevertheless, the most critical question remains whether reskilling programs will be sufficient for courier workers against the pace at which robots become widespread.

Chinese JD.com Is Evaluating the Acquisition of Britain’s The Very Group

DHL Suspends Globalmail Shipments from the UK to Europe Due to EU Customs Rules

DHL Globalmail has decided to temporarily suspend certain e-commerce shipments from the United Kingdom to EU countries due to the European Union’s (EU) new customs regulations, which will come into force on July 1. The decision will particularly affect UK-based online sellers using the DHL Globalmail service.

As of July 1, the European Union will introduce a new customs procedure for low-value parcels worth up to €150 sent from outside the EU to member states. Under this framework, a fixed fee of €3 is planned to be applied to low-value e-commerce parcels.

DHL Globalmail Is Not Ready for the New Process

Under the new system, for postal services such as Globalmail, customs duties and related fees will need to be paid by the sender or declarant rather than the recipient. This means additional data sharing, new declaration processes, and operational obligations for sellers.

According to British news platform ChannelX, the DHL Globalmail service is currently unable to support this process because it does not have a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) solution, under which the fees would be covered by the seller. Although DHL stated that it is working on such a solution, it has not provided a date for when the system will be ready.

Service to Be Suspended on June 24

As an unwanted but necessary consequence, DHL will temporarily suspend low-value parcels containing goods sent to the EU under Globalmail as of Wednesday, June 24. The final collection day will be Tuesday, June 23.

The suspension only applies to shipments containing goods sent to the European Union through DHL Globalmail. DHL Express services will remain available. In addition, UK online sellers that hold inventory within the European Union will not be affected by this change.

The EU Aims to Reduce the Flow of Unsafe Products

Brussels’ new regulations aim to control the flow of low-value products sent directly to consumers in the EU from third countries, particularly China. Last year, 5.8 billion low-value e-commerce parcels entered the European Union. This represents a 26 percent increase compared to the previous year.

EU inspections have found that many products shipped directly to consumers from third countries do not comply with product safety and regulatory standards. For this reason, in addition to the temporary customs fee, a permanent handling fee of approximately €2 per parcel is also on the agenda. This fee is expected to take effect on November 1, but the date has not yet been officially confirmed.

DHL’s decision is regarded as one of the first concrete examples of the operational pressure that the new customs rules will create on cross-border e-commerce logistics.

DHL and USPS Sign $10 Billion Deal to Reshape U.S. E-Commerce Deliveries

Russian E-Commerce Giant Wildberries Moves Toward Mega Logistics Project

Wildberries & Russ, one of Russia’s largest e-commerce players, is holding talks for a large-scale logistics project that will digitally coordinate freight flows across the country. The company is reportedly in contact with Russian Railways and transport group FESCO as part of the development of Russia’s National Logistics Platform.

The platform in question is planned to operate like a digital marketplace for freight transportation customers. Through the system, shippers will enter cargo information, shipment volumes, delivery points, and dates via a digital interface. They will then be able to receive suitable transportation options from logistics providers operating on the designated routes.

The project is being evaluated within the scope of the National Digital Transport and Logistics Platform, known as GosLog, which aims to strengthen digital transportation and logistics infrastructure in Russia. GosLog was established by a government decree issued in July 2024 and is currently managed by the Russian Ministry of Transport.

One of the options being considered within the scope of the talks is for Wildberries to acquire a 25 percent stake in the joint venture expected to be established by Russian Railways and FESCO. It is also stated that software company 1C may be included in the project as a shareholder. However, these possibilities have not yet been officially confirmed.

Wildberries May Assume a Central Technological Role in the Platform With Its Logistics and Supply Chain Infrastructure

According to industry experts, Wildberries may assume a central technological role in the platform thanks to its advanced digital logistics and supply chain management infrastructure. As part of its e-commerce operations, the company manages one of Russia’s largest digital commerce ecosystems with its extensive delivery network, warehouse management, and data-driven order processes.

This move demonstrates Wildberries’ goal of not only strengthening its position in the e-commerce market, but also becoming a more strategic player in the fields of logistics, finance, and digital infrastructure. The company’s recent cooperation plans with VTB Bank and its expansion steps in different sectors show that e-commerce and logistics infrastructure in Russia are moving toward a more integrated structure.

If the national logistics platform is implemented, freight transportation processes in Russia are expected to become more transparent, faster, and more efficient. The project also stands out as an important transformation area at the intersection of e-commerce, transportation, and publicly supported digital infrastructure investments.

Wildberries Enters Africa with Ethiopian Expansion