Guide to Avoiding Costly CBM Mistakes in Global Shipping

Guide to Avoiding Costly CBM Mistakes in Global Shipping

This article delves into the meaning of CBM in international logistics and the billing rules for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping, revealing potential pitfalls in CBM-based quotations. By comparing CBM with more precise billing methods like RT (Revenue Ton) and W/M (Weight/Measurement), it provides practical advice for reducing logistics costs and helping shippers effectively control international transportation expenses. The article aims to empower shippers to understand the nuances of CBM and optimize their shipping strategies for cost efficiency.

Indonesia Imposes New Ecommerce Tax Affecting Sellers and Platforms

Indonesia Imposes New Ecommerce Tax Affecting Sellers and Platforms

New Indonesian e-commerce tax regulations are now in effect, requiring sellers with annual revenue exceeding IDR 500 million to pay 0.5% income tax. This measure aims to alleviate fiscal pressure and promote market fairness. The new rules will directly impact seller profit margins and increase platform operating costs and compliance responsibilities. In the long term, a standardized tax environment will contribute to the healthy development of the Indonesian e-commerce industry. Sellers and platforms need to actively adapt to these changes.

Ghanas Customs Reforms Boost Women in West African Trade

Ghanas Customs Reforms Boost Women in West African Trade

The World Customs Organization partnered with the Ghana Revenue Authority on a Gender Equality and Diversity project, empowering female traders in Ghana. The project included stakeholder meetings with SMEs and small traders, aiming to simplify trade procedures, provide information support, and promote gender equality. The outcomes of these meetings will be used to improve customs services and create a more equitable trading environment for women traders. This initiative seeks to address barriers faced by women in trade and foster inclusive economic growth.

Ukraine Boosts Customs Expertise with HS System Lab Partnerships

Ukraine Boosts Customs Expertise with HS System Lab Partnerships

The World Customs Organization held a national workshop in Ukraine on the HS Nomenclature and the role of Customs Laboratories. The workshop aimed to enhance Ukraine's customs commodity classification capabilities, emphasizing the importance of Customs Laboratories in this process. It also fostered international cooperation and exchange, injecting new impetus into the modernization of Ukrainian customs. The event highlighted the crucial role of accurate classification in trade facilitation and revenue collection, underscoring the need for well-equipped and skilled Customs Laboratories.

Zimbabwe Enhances Crossborder Trade with Risk Management Training

Zimbabwe Enhances Crossborder Trade with Risk Management Training

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, with support from the WCO and HMRC, successfully conducted a risk management workshop. This initiative empowered cross-border regulatory agencies, enhanced risk management capabilities, and promoted trade facilitation. By strengthening risk management practices and coordinating border management efforts, Zimbabwe is building a more efficient and secure environment for cross-border trade. The workshop aimed to equip officials with the necessary skills to identify and mitigate risks associated with international trade, ultimately contributing to economic growth and improved border security.

Cameroon Boosts Trade with WCO Customs Reform

Cameroon Boosts Trade with WCO Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of Cameroon's customs valuation control system to enhance trade efficiency and compliance. Through in-depth discussions with customs officials and business representatives, the WCO proposed recommendations to strengthen valuation capacity, optimize processes, and enhance information sharing. These efforts aim to help Cameroon better implement the WTO Valuation Agreement, promote trade facilitation, and foster economic growth. The assessment focuses on improving customs valuation practices to streamline trade procedures and ensure fair revenue collection.

WCO Releases Handbook for Customs Performance Excellence

WCO Releases Handbook for Customs Performance Excellence

The WCO has released a Customs Performance Assessment Handbook, providing tools such as assessment guidelines, KPI selection, and data management. It aims to improve the operational efficiency and service levels of customs administrations. The handbook offers a framework for measuring and enhancing performance across various customs functions, ultimately contributing to more effective border management and trade facilitation. It serves as a valuable resource for customs agencies seeking to optimize their processes and achieve strategic goals related to revenue collection, security, and compliance.

WCOJICA Project Enhances East African Customs Capacity

WCOJICA Project Enhances East African Customs Capacity

WCO-JICA cooperation is helping East African customs authorities cultivate customs audit experts, enhancing regional customs audit capabilities, and promoting trade development. The initiative focuses on strengthening the skills and knowledge of customs officers in conducting effective audits, thereby improving compliance and revenue collection. This collaboration aims to facilitate smoother trade flows within the East African region by ensuring fair and transparent customs procedures and combating illicit trade activities through improved audit practices. Ultimately, this contributes to economic growth and regional integration.

Zimbabwe Tax Authority Gains from WCO Leadership Program

Zimbabwe Tax Authority Gains from WCO Leadership Program

The WCO held a workshop in Zimbabwe to enhance the management capabilities of ZIMRA, promoting customs modernization and trade development. The workshop aimed to improve tax efficiency and international competitiveness. Key areas covered included leadership development strategies tailored for customs and tax administration. Participants explored best practices in streamlining customs procedures, leveraging technology for tax collection, and fostering a culture of compliance. The ultimate goal is to bolster Zimbabwe's economic growth through efficient and effective revenue collection and enhanced trade facilitation.

Georgia Boosts Customs Efficiency With HS Reforms Global Partnerships

Georgia Boosts Customs Efficiency With HS Reforms Global Partnerships

Georgia Customs enhanced commodity classification skills and promoted customs modernization by hosting a Harmonized System (HS) workshop. The workshop, jointly organized by the WCO and the Georgian Revenue Service, covered the HS Convention, tariff classification practices, and advance ruling systems. It aimed to establish a tariff classification system compliant with international standards and facilitate trade. The experience of Georgia provides a valuable reference for other developing countries seeking to improve their customs procedures and ensure accurate commodity classification according to the HS.