WTO Addresses Customs Valuation Challenges in Global Trade

WTO Addresses Customs Valuation Challenges in Global Trade

This article delves into key customs valuation decision issues under the WTO framework, including the French translation of copyright, the meaning of the term 'undertaken,' the treatment of interest on imported goods, software carrier valuation, the definition of processing and improvement, and addressing customs queries and handling minimum prices and exclusive agency issues. It aims to provide trade participants with a clear understanding and effective response strategies within the international trade context. This helps navigate the complexities of customs valuation under WTO rules.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ukraine Advances Customs Modernization to Boost Trade Efficiency

Ukraine Advances Customs Modernization to Boost Trade Efficiency

The State Fiscal Service (SFS) of Ukraine is actively pursuing customs modernization, collaborating with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to develop a strategic planning framework. This framework includes stakeholder analysis, SWOT analysis, vision reshaping, and the establishment of strategic priorities. The initiative aims to enhance customs clearance efficiency, improve the business environment, strengthen risk management, and promote international cooperation. This will contribute significantly to Ukraine's economic development and international trade.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Body Cracks Down on Counterfeit Trade

Global Customs Body Cracks Down on Counterfeit Trade

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) highlighted the importance of combating counterfeit goods at the 6th International Conference “Georgia against Counterfeiting and Piracy.” He called for strengthened international cooperation and presented the WCO's actions in combating counterfeit medicines and medical devices. The conference also addressed new trends in counterfeit goods during the pandemic and how to more effectively combat counterfeiting to protect consumer rights and safety. The discussions emphasized the need for collaborative efforts and innovative strategies to tackle the evolving challenges posed by counterfeit products.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Guide Aids Customs in Pandemic Trade Continuity

WCO Guide Aids Customs in Pandemic Trade Continuity

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 'Communication Guidelines in Times of Crisis' to assist member customs administrations in addressing communication challenges posed by the pandemic and maintaining the stability of global supply chains. The guidelines cover communication objectives, audiences, channels, and strategies, emphasizing timeliness, accuracy, and transparency. The WCO encourages members to share best practices to collectively combat the pandemic and build a safer and more efficient global trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Launches Datadriven Customs Portal to Modernize Trade

WCO Launches Datadriven Customs Portal to Modernize Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO)'s Smart Customs Project is fostering global customs cooperation and innovation through an agilely developed community portal. This portal serves as a project information hub, a secure collaboration space, and a platform for exchanging experiences. It gathers technical application guidelines and research findings to help customs administrations address challenges and promote trade facilitation. The active participation of national contact points is crucial for the project's success. The portal aims to be a central point for accessing resources and engaging with the Smart Customs initiative.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Moldova Boosts Trade Compliance with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

Moldova Boosts Trade Compliance with Wcobacked Customs Upgrades

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Customs Valuation Workshop in Moldova, aiming to enhance the understanding and application of the WTO Valuation Agreement among Moldovan customs officials. The workshop focused on strengthening the role of valuation databases in risk assessment, standardizing valuation procedures, and addressing challenging issues such as the valuation of second-hand goods, the determination of assistance costs, and license fees. This initiative contributes to trade facilitation and economic development by improving customs valuation practices in Moldova.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran and Japan signed a Mutual Assistance and Cooperation Agreement on Customs Matters, aiming to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the customs area. The agreement facilitates information sharing, joint research, and administrative assistance. Based on the World Customs Organization's Model Agreement, it will promote trade growth, enhance trade security, and improve the investment climate. This agreement sets a precedent for global customs cooperation, fostering a more secure and efficient international trade environment between the two nations. It is expected to significantly boost economic ties and streamline customs procedures.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Yemen Adopts International Customs Standards to Boost Trade

Yemen Adopts International Customs Standards to Boost Trade

Yemen acceded to the Kyoto Convention on June 27, 2013, aiming to simplify and harmonize customs procedures and promote international trade facilitation. The convention will enter into force on September 27, 2013, after which Yemen's customs procedures will gradually align with international standards. Businesses will benefit from more convenient and efficient customs clearance services. Companies need to understand the new rules in a timely manner, adjust business processes, seize opportunities, and embrace change.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bolivia Boosts Customs Efficiency Via Trade Facilitation Project

Bolivia Boosts Customs Efficiency Via Trade Facilitation Project

Under the WCO's global trade facilitation program, a Mercator follow-up mission assessed Bolivian Customs' progress in trade facilitation and provided recommendations for improvement. The evaluation focused on key areas like risk management and advance rulings, engaging actively with stakeholders. Expert advice will help Bolivian Customs refine measures, improve service delivery, and contribute more to economic development. The assessment aimed to identify areas where further progress is needed to streamline procedures and reduce trade costs, ultimately boosting Bolivia's competitiveness in the global market.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Promotes Green Customs for Sustainable Textile Trade

WCO Promotes Green Customs for Sustainable Textile Trade

A WCO seminar explored leveraging the Harmonized System (HS) to identify environmentally friendly textiles at borders, promoting textile sustainability. The meeting focused on value chain transparency, industry practices, technological innovation, and standardization. It aimed to provide insights for building a greener HS system and supporting the global textile industry's transformation. Discussions centered on how HS codes can be better utilized to classify and track sustainable textiles, fostering a more environmentally responsible and transparent global textile trade.

02/05/2026 HS Code Query
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