Qingdao Customs: Significant Improvement in Customs Efficiency for Exports to South Korea

Qingdao Customs: Significant Improvement in Customs Efficiency for Exports to South Korea

Data from Qingdao Customs shows a significant improvement in customs clearance efficiency for foreign trade enterprises dealing with South Korea, with sea freight times reduced by 34.78% and air freight times increased by 71.43%. This progress is driven by policy benefits and technological innovation, particularly the AEO mutual recognition policy and the consolidated tax reform. Additionally, modern technologies such as the Internet of Things have greatly enhanced customs efficiency, significantly lowering business costs.

07/21/2025 Logistics
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Kenya Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO JICA Aid

Kenya Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO JICA Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly supporting the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to enhance its risk assessment and selectivity capabilities, addressing new trade challenges in East Africa. Using a two-pronged approach combining expert discussions and practical exercises, Kenyan Customs actively participates in building a smart customs administration. This initiative aims to improve clearance efficiency, promote trade facilitation, and ultimately contribute to Kenya's economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Serbia Boosts Trade with Businesscustoms Collaboration

Serbia Boosts Trade with Businesscustoms Collaboration

With the support of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme, Serbia has established a Customs-Business Roundtable. This initiative aims to strengthen cooperation between customs and the private sector, address trade challenges, optimize policies, improve customs clearance efficiency, and enhance the overall trade environment, ultimately promoting economic growth. This marks a significant step for Serbia in trade facilitation, with the potential to attract more investment and build a prosperous trade future.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zambia Botswana Boost Trade with Customs Data Link

Zambia Botswana Boost Trade with Customs Data Link

With support from the Sida-WCO program, Zambia and Botswana are advancing customs system interconnectivity and data exchange. This initiative aims to improve customs clearance efficiency and promote regional integration. By linking their customs systems, both countries seek to streamline trade processes, reduce delays, and enhance transparency. The improved data exchange will also contribute to better risk management and security. This collaboration highlights the importance of regional cooperation in facilitating trade and fostering economic growth.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Publishes 2022 HS Explanatory Notes for Trade Classification

WCO Publishes 2022 HS Explanatory Notes for Trade Classification

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 2022 edition of the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) in print. This provides practical guidance on technical descriptions and classification of goods, serving as the official interpretation of HS codes. Purchase of the print version includes amendment supplements. An online subscription option is also available through the WCO Trade Tools platform. As a global leader in customs affairs, the WCO assists trade professionals in accurate customs clearance.

01/05/2026 HS Code Query
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US Customs Guide for Crossborder Ecommerce Sellers

US Customs Guide for Crossborder Ecommerce Sellers

This paper analyzes factors affecting US air freight customs clearance and inspection time, including cargo and documentation compliance, customs workload, commodity type, and inspection methods. It provides strategies for cross-border e-commerce sellers to shorten inspection times and improve operational efficiency. These strategies include ensuring accurate declarations, selecting professional freight forwarders, purchasing insurance, and avoiding peak periods. The analysis aims to help sellers navigate the complexities of US customs and optimize their supply chain.

01/08/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Optimizing CIF Export Declarations for Cost Savings

Guide to Optimizing CIF Export Declarations for Cost Savings

This article, from a data analyst's perspective, delves into the key points of completing export customs declarations under CIF terms. It focuses on interpreting the declaration logic of freight and insurance premiums and their impact on export tax rebates. Furthermore, it provides suggestions for optimizing the customs declaration process. The aim is to assist companies in accurately and compliantly completing customs declarations, thereby avoiding tax risks. The analysis emphasizes the importance of precise data entry for both customs clearance and subsequent tax rebate claims.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Firms Face Rising Customs Fees Seek Cost Strategies

Ecommerce Firms Face Rising Customs Fees Seek Cost Strategies

This article provides a detailed analysis of the various fees that may arise when international express deliveries are detained by customs, including customs duties and penalties, storage and demurrage fees, and customs clearance agency fees. It also proposes corresponding strategies for cross-border e-commerce sellers to help them minimize losses caused by detention and improve the efficiency of their cross-border business. The aim is to equip sellers with the knowledge to navigate customs issues effectively and reduce the financial impact of unexpected delays.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Customs Oversight with WTO Aid

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Post Clearance Audit (PCA) diagnostic of Antigua and Barbuda Customs to enhance trade facilitation. Through observation and discussions, the WCO assessed the current state of PCA implementation and provided recommendations for improvement. Moving forward, the WCO will continue to collaborate, assisting Antigua and Barbuda Customs in refining risk management, data analysis, personnel training, and IT systems. This includes strengthening cooperation with the private sector to promote trade development. The goal is to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs operations.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nigeria Customs Adopts WCO System to Boost Trade Efficiency

Nigeria Customs Adopts WCO System to Boost Trade Efficiency

With WCO support, the Nigeria Customs Service upgraded its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) system, strengthening risk management, optimizing trader segmentation, and supporting the implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. This initiative aims to enhance trade efficiency and promote economic prosperity. Emphasizing data-driven customs management, the project offers valuable lessons for other developing countries looking to modernize their customs operations and improve trade facilitation measures. The focus on risk-based approaches and data analysis is key to achieving tangible improvements in customs performance.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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