A Comprehensive Guide to HS Code Classification for Imitation Jewelry

A Comprehensive Guide to HS Code Classification for Imitation Jewelry

This article explores the HS classification of costume jewelry, focusing on items such as cufflinks, decorative clasps, rings, and bracelets. According to customs regulations, costume jewelry should be classified under heading 71.17, which can be divided into two categories: those made of base metals and those made from unnamed materials. During the declaration process, relevant documentation must be provided and customs supervision requirements followed to avoid confusion with genuine jewelry, ensuring smooth customs clearance. The article offers detailed codes and precautionary measures.

07/28/2025 HS Code Query
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Colombia Tax Authority Bolsters Leadership with WCO Training

Colombia Tax Authority Bolsters Leadership with WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held its first virtual Leadership and Management Development (LMD) program at the request of the Colombian National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN). The program, which included modules on crisis management, effectively enhanced the leadership, teamwork, and organizational strategic capabilities of DIAN executives. The Director of DIAN highly praised the program and expressed anticipation for future collaboration. This initiative demonstrates the WCO's commitment to supporting its members in developing strong leadership within their customs administrations.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Updates Expert Guidance for Enhanced Capacity Building

WCO Updates Expert Guidance for Enhanced Capacity Building

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the new "WCO Expert Guidance" to provide comprehensive support to experts involved in capacity building missions. This guide covers pre-mission preparation, execution, post-mission follow-up, and administrative and financial rules. It aims to ensure that experts complete their tasks efficiently and in accordance with regulations, thereby contributing to global customs capacity building efforts. The guidance serves as a valuable resource for experts to enhance their effectiveness and impact on customs modernization worldwide.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Sellers Face Risks from Underdeclaring Shipments

Ecommerce Sellers Face Risks from Underdeclaring Shipments

AliExpress sellers should be wary of customer requests for under-declaration, as compliance can lead to customs fines and buyer refund risks. Brazilian customs inspections are strict, and VAT collection by platforms in the EU market renders under-declaration pointless. Under the DDP model, customs duties are already collected by the platform. Sellers should refuse unreasonable requests, clearly define responsibilities in communication, and retain evidence to protect themselves. Ignoring these issues can lead to significant financial and legal repercussions for AliExpress businesses.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

Malawi Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

In July 2018, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Blantyre to support Malawi in enhancing trade facilitation by implementing the advance ruling system and optimizing its customs classification system. Through expert training, current state analysis, and action plan development, Malawi aims to improve its legal framework, establish an advance ruling body, and strengthen personnel training. These efforts are designed to increase customs clearance efficiency, enhance trade certainty, and improve the business environment, ultimately promoting economic development in Malawi.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Cargo Targeting to Strengthen Trade Security

WCO Enhances Cargo Targeting to Strengthen Trade Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO)'s Cargo Targeting System (CTS) has undergone a significant upgrade, featuring enhancements in user interface, air cargo targeting capabilities, global deployment, and security. The WCO CTS, through risk assessment, helps customs administrations improve efficiency, ensure trade security, and promote trade facilitation, while adhering to international standards. Successfully implemented in numerous countries, the CTS will continue to strengthen technological innovation, data sharing, and global coverage. This upgrade aims to further optimize customs procedures and enhance overall supply chain security.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Boosts Trade Controls in Azerbaijan to Counter WMD Threats

WCO Boosts Trade Controls in Azerbaijan to Counter WMD Threats

The WCO's ACES project has assisted Azerbaijan Customs in enhancing its control over weapons of mass destruction. This initiative involved training customs officers and certifying experts, enabling Azerbaijan to fulfill UN Security Council resolutions and contribute to building a global security barrier. The project strengthens strategic trade control and customs capacity building, ultimately aiming to prevent the proliferation of WMDs and ensure a safer global environment. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing critical security challenges.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kazakhstan Adopts WCO Method to Boost Trade Efficiency

Kazakhstan Adopts WCO Method to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for the Kazakhstan Customs Service to help measure cargo clearance times, identify bottlenecks, and optimize processes. Kazakhstan has established a Single Window platform and plans further digitalization. Despite pandemic challenges, the country intends to implement the TRS to improve trade efficiency. Recommendations include establishing a project team, strengthening training, developing a data quality control system, and enhancing international cooperation. The TRS aims to streamline customs procedures and boost Kazakhstan's trade competitiveness.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Improves Disaster Relief for Pacific Islands

WCO Improves Disaster Relief for Pacific Islands

The World Customs Organization's COVID-19 Project aims to enhance the disaster response capabilities of customs administrations in Pacific Island Countries. Through online seminars, the project focuses on facilitating the clearance of disaster relief supplies, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, and updating relevant laws, regulations, and operational procedures. This ensures the efficient operation of humanitarian supply chains and improves overall regional resilience to disasters. The project emphasizes the importance of streamlined customs processes in delivering critical aid quickly and effectively during emergencies.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Strengthens Zambias Antiwildlife Trafficking Efforts

WCO Strengthens Zambias Antiwildlife Trafficking Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through its INAMA project, supports Zambia Customs in enhancing its intelligence capabilities to combat the illegal trade in endangered species. A WCO expert team visited Zambia to provide strategic advice and technical assistance, covering intelligence gathering, analysis, dissemination, and risk management. This initiative aims to strengthen Zambia Customs' enforcement capabilities and contribute to global biodiversity conservation efforts. The project focuses on improving intelligence-led enforcement to effectively target and disrupt wildlife trafficking networks operating through Zambian borders.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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