Singapore Tightens Sea Freight Rules on GST and Cargo Size

Singapore Tightens Sea Freight Rules on GST and Cargo Size

This article provides a detailed interpretation of Singapore's latest shipping GST policies and cargo size restrictions, offering practical guidance for cross-border e-commerce businesses and individuals. It covers GST payment methods, exemptions, and size limits for containers and parcels. Solutions for oversized cargo are also provided, aiming to help readers mitigate shipping risks and reduce operating costs. The guide clarifies the complexities of Singapore's maritime regulations, ensuring compliance and efficient cargo management for those involved in import and export activities via sea freight.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Zealand Aims to Streamline Trade with Clearer Customs Rules

New Zealand Aims to Streamline Trade with Clearer Customs Rules

New Zealand submitted a proposal to the WTO aimed at promoting objectivity and transparency in tariff classification, avoiding arbitrary classifications and hidden trade restrictions. The proposal emphasizes classification based on the Harmonized System (HS) and focuses on the capacity-building needs of developing countries, suggesting the establishment of a horizontal mechanism to address their specific issues. This proposal is of great significance for promoting fair trade and global economic development. It seeks to ensure consistent and predictable application of tariff classifications, fostering a more transparent and equitable global trading environment.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Zealand Calls for Transparent Tariff Rules to Facilitate Trade

New Zealand Calls for Transparent Tariff Rules to Facilitate Trade

New Zealand submitted a proposal to the WTO advocating for an objective and transparent tariff classification system. The proposal calls for avoiding arbitrary and unfair classifications and suggests the unified application of the HS coding system. It emphasizes special and differential treatment for developing countries, along with the importance of technical assistance and capacity building. The proposal aims to promote global trade facilitation by ensuring predictable and equitable tariff classifications, thereby reducing trade barriers and fostering a more efficient international trading environment. This contributes to smoother cross-border trade and economic growth.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Developing Nations Push for Flexible Trade Rules in WTO Talks

Developing Nations Push for Flexible Trade Rules in WTO Talks

China, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka jointly called for attention to the special circumstances of developing countries in trade facilitation negotiations. They emphasized commitment flexibility, technical assistance, and the applicability of dispute resolution mechanisms. Recommendations included modular commitments, establishing a technical assistance coordination mechanism, and introducing pre-dispute resolution procedures. The aim is to build a more flexible and pragmatic implementation framework, fostering shared global trade prosperity. This approach seeks to ensure that trade facilitation measures are implemented in a way that is supportive of developing countries' needs and capacities.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China Strengthens Steel Export Rules to Boost Quality Trade Fairness

China Strengthens Steel Export Rules to Boost Quality Trade Fairness

The Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs jointly announced that export license management will be implemented for certain steel products starting January 1, 2026. This measure aims to regulate steel export trade, improve product quality, and maintain international trade order. Exporters will be required to provide export contracts and quality certificates when applying for licenses. The implementation of the new regulations will promote the healthy development of the industry.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Firms Urged to Comply With Global Shipping Label Rules

Ecommerce Firms Urged to Comply With Global Shipping Label Rules

This article provides an in-depth analysis of compliance requirements for shipping labels in cross-border e-commerce, covering both general cargo and dangerous goods. It details specifications for label materials, information marking, placement, and special symbols. This guide helps cross-border e-commerce sellers mitigate risks, ensure smooth customs clearance, and avoid penalties by adhering to label regulations. Understanding and implementing these guidelines is crucial for successful international shipping operations.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

The US Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two new rules to streamline railway freight rate dispute resolution, including a voluntary arbitration program and Final Offer Rate Review (FORR). However, the Association of American Railroads (AAR) strongly opposes these rules, citing “fatal flaws” in FORR and arguing the arbitration rules are “backwards.” Whether these new regulations will bring relief to shippers remains challenging, and shippers need to carefully assess the implications. The future impact of these regulations is uncertain amidst ongoing debate and potential legal challenges.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Ebay UK Imposes New Safety Rules for Button Battery Sellers

Ebay UK Imposes New Safety Rules for Button Battery Sellers

eBay UK has announced new safety regulations for button cell batteries, requiring sellers to strictly adhere to the PAS 7055 standard to ensure product safety. Violations may result in product removal or even legal liability. Sellers are urged to carefully study the regulations, conduct self-inspections, and stay informed about official updates to ensure their products meet safety standards and protect child safety. Compliance is crucial for maintaining a safe marketplace and avoiding penalties.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Logistics Firms Adapt to ELD Rules Amid Supply Chain Challenges

Logistics Firms Adapt to ELD Rules Amid Supply Chain Challenges

This article analyzes the impact of ELD regulatory upgrades on the logistics industry and explores the challenges facing the logistics sector in 2025. It emphasizes the importance of building a resilient supply chain and proposes strategies such as diversification, digitalization, risk management, and enhanced collaboration capabilities. The paper also looks forward to the future development trends of the logistics industry, including intelligence, green practices, and enhanced collaboration. These strategies are crucial for navigating the evolving landscape and ensuring long-term success.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Brazil Adjusts Coffee Tariffs to Comply With EU Deforestation Rules

Brazil Adjusts Coffee Tariffs to Comply With EU Deforestation Rules

Brazil is adjusting its coffee industry tariffs to address the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and promote industry upgrading. This involves lowering import tariffs on compliance-related equipment, increasing export tax rebates for high-value-added products, and restricting the export of low-quality coffee beans. Brazil aims to strengthen its position in the EU market, deepen trade with China, and achieve sustainable development and high-value transformation of its coffee industry. The adjustments are designed to ensure EUDR compliance while simultaneously boosting the competitiveness and profitability of the Brazilian coffee sector.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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