DOJ Expands Whistleblower Program to Tackle Customs Fraud

DOJ Expands Whistleblower Program to Tackle Customs Fraud

The U.S. Department of Justice has expanded its pilot program for corporate whistleblower rewards to include customs fraud and tax evasion. Rewards can reach up to 30% of the forfeited amount. This aims to combat tax evasion tactics like misrepresenting the origin or misclassifying goods, maintaining a fair trade environment. Insiders and competitors with relevant information are encouraged to report, but should be aware of the risks and seek professional assistance. Companies should strengthen compliance operations to avoid legal pitfalls.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Managing Detained International Shipments at Customs

Guide to Managing Detained International Shipments at Customs

It's common for overseas parcels to be detained by customs. This article addresses the reasons for detention, such as prohibited items, unclear declarations, missing documents, and exceeding tax thresholds. It provides solutions including contacting freight forwarders, supplementing materials, and truthfully correcting information. Prevention tips are also offered, such as understanding customs policies, standardizing customs declarations, and choosing reliable freight forwarders. Remaining calm and responding promptly are key to resolving the issue. Understanding import regulations and accurate documentation can minimize the risk of customs delays.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Firms Face Challenges in Global Shipping Customs

Ecommerce Firms Face Challenges in Global Shipping Customs

This article delves into the five key factors influencing customs inspection rates for international express shipments: destination country policies, cargo type, declaration information, transportation method, and other risk factors. It provides six practical tips aimed at helping cross-border e-commerce sellers reduce the probability of inspection, ensure smooth customs clearance, and improve operational efficiency. By understanding these factors and implementing the suggested strategies, businesses can minimize delays and costs associated with customs inspections, ultimately enhancing their international logistics operations.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Classifying Footwear and Accessories for Customs

Guide to Classifying Footwear and Accessories for Customs

This article provides an in-depth interpretation of the latest regulations on the classification of footwear and its accessories in customs commodity classification. It details the general rules, important notes, subheading notes, and classification practices for various types of footwear. Through case studies and risk warnings, it helps enterprises accurately grasp commodity classification, avoid trade risks, and facilitate smooth trade. It covers key aspects of footwear classification under the Harmonized System, enabling businesses to correctly classify their products and comply with customs regulations.

01/19/2026 HS Code Query
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Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran and Japan signed an agreement on mutual assistance and cooperation in customs matters. This aims to strengthen cooperation between the two countries' customs administrations in areas such as information exchange, document assistance, and technical cooperation. The goal is to improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, optimize the business environment, and promote bilateral trade and economic relations. The agreement, modeled after the World Customs Organization's Model Agreement, establishes a solid legal foundation for Iran-Japan customs cooperation, signaling a new era in bilateral trade.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Pacific Islands Boost Customs Skills Via WCO Training

Pacific Islands Boost Customs Skills Via WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the Harmonized System (HS) Classification Master Trainer Program for Pacific Island Countries, aiming to enhance their HS coding capabilities by developing a pool of regional experts. The inaugural working group event brought together experts from various countries to share experiences and discuss development strategies, laying the foundation for trade facilitation in the Pacific Island region. This initiative is crucial for improving customs efficiency and ensuring accurate tariff application, ultimately contributing to economic growth and regional integration.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Maldives Boost Customs Efficiency Via Virtual Exchange

Uzbekistan Maldives Boost Customs Efficiency Via Virtual Exchange

Within the framework of the World Customs Organization, Uzbekistan and Maldives Customs conducted a virtual learning exchange on Post Clearance Audit (PCA). The Maldives shared its experience in PCA organization, legal framework, operations, coordination, and IT systems. This effectively enhanced Uzbekistan's customs audit capabilities and promoted cooperation between the two customs administrations. This activity provides a valuable reference for other countries seeking to improve customs management through international cooperation.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Maldives Boost Customs Audits Via Virtual Workshop

Uzbekistan Maldives Boost Customs Audits Via Virtual Workshop

Uzbekistan and Maldives Customs held a virtual workshop where Uzbekistan learned from the Maldives' experience in post-clearance audit to enhance its own capabilities. The workshop facilitated knowledge sharing and best practices in customs procedures, specifically focusing on improving the effectiveness and efficiency of post-clearance audit processes. This collaboration highlights the importance of international customs cooperation in strengthening national customs administrations and promoting trade facilitation.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Releases HS 2022 Tools for Customs Compliance

WCO Releases HS 2022 Tools for Customs Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 7th edition of the Harmonized System (HS) supporting tools: the Explanatory Notes and the Compendium of Classification Opinions. These resources aim to help businesses accurately classify goods, reduce trade risks, and improve customs clearance efficiency. Both tools are available for subscription through the WCO Trade Tools platform, supporting businesses in compliant international trade operations and enhancing their competitiveness. They provide valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of commodity classification and ensuring adherence to global trade regulations.

01/19/2026 HS Code Query
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Asiapacific Customs Adopts Tech to Boost Trade Efficiency

Asiapacific Customs Adopts Tech to Boost Trade Efficiency

The WCO Asia/Pacific region hosted a workshop on disruptive technologies, focusing on the application of technologies like blockchain, AI, and IoT in the customs domain. The meeting aimed to share experiences, gather input for updating relevant WCO research reports, and promote digital transformation within Asia/Pacific customs administrations. This initiative seeks to enhance trade facilitation and compliance levels by leveraging innovative technologies and fostering collaboration among customs organizations in the region.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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