WTO Clarifies undertaken in Customs Rules to Ensure Fair Trade

WTO Clarifies undertaken in Customs Rules to Ensure Fair Trade

In 1983, the Customs Valuation Committee clarified that the term "undertaken" in Article 8 of the Customs Valuation Agreement should be interpreted as "carried out" in the English context. This interpretation aimed to standardize understanding and prevent trade disputes arising from linguistic differences. However, this clarification does not affect the French and Spanish versions of the Agreement. The ruling emphasizes the importance of consistent interpretation in international trade agreements to ensure fair and predictable application across different language versions.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Niger Customs in Trade System Upgrade for Africa

WCO Aids Niger Customs in Trade System Upgrade for Africa

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with EU funding, launched the project "Harmonized Commodity Classification Based on WCO Standards to Strengthen African Trade," with Niger as one of the first beneficiary countries. WCO experts assessed Niger Customs to enhance its commodity classification and customs valuation capabilities, unify commodity classification standards, and facilitate African trade. This project will provide valuable experience for other African countries, jointly building a new landscape for African trade.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Customs Adopts Digital Tax Refunds As Tariff Policies Shift

US Customs Adopts Digital Tax Refunds As Tariff Policies Shift

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will fully implement electronic refunds starting February 6th, eliminating paper-based refunds. This initiative aims to reduce costs, minimize delays, enhance security, and prepare for a potential wave of Trump-era tariff refunds. Businesses should complete electronic registration promptly, verify data accuracy, and closely monitor policy developments to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate risks. The transition to e-refunds is expected to streamline the refund process and improve efficiency for both CBP and trade stakeholders.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Azerbaijan Expands Trade Program with WCO Backing

Azerbaijan Expands Trade Program with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides technical assistance to Azerbaijan Customs to enhance its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. Through workshops, WCO experts and Azerbaijani Customs representatives discussed the effectiveness of the AEO program, expansion opportunities, and alignment with the SAFE Framework. The goal is to promote trade facilitation, improve supply chain security, and contribute to Azerbaijan's economic growth. The assistance aims to elevate the operational standards of Azerbaijan Customs.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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ATA Carnet Marks 50 Years Easing Global Trade

ATA Carnet Marks 50 Years Easing Global Trade

As the World Customs Organization celebrates the 50th anniversary of the ATA Carnet system, stakeholders emphasized its importance as a model of customs-business partnership in promoting trade and investment. Discussions focused on developing a paperless ATA Carnet, reaffirming the crucial role of customs-business collaboration in enhancing system efficiency. By simplifying customs procedures and reducing trade costs, the ATA Carnet system significantly contributes to global trade facilitation.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Boosts Trade Facilitation Efforts in Latin America

WCO Boosts Trade Facilitation Efforts in Latin America

The WCO Deputy Secretary General attended the ALACAT International Congress, highlighting customs' crucial role in promoting economic competitiveness and implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The WCO showcased relevant tools and measures, emphasizing the importance of customs-business cooperation. During the event, the WCO also strengthened collaboration with Spanish Customs and the Catalan private sector, aiming to build a more efficient and transparent customs system and promote global trade facilitation.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Launches Trade Efficiency Program for Businesses

Uzbekistan Launches Trade Efficiency Program for Businesses

The World Customs Organization is assisting Uzbekistan in upgrading its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. This aims to enhance customs risk management capabilities, provide certified companies with trade facilitation benefits, reduce operating costs, and strengthen customs-business partnerships. The upgraded AEO program offers strategic opportunities for businesses to expand their operations within the Uzbek market by streamlining customs procedures and fostering a more predictable and efficient trading environment.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO COVID19 Project Boosts Global Emergency Preparedness

WCO COVID19 Project Boosts Global Emergency Preparedness

The World Customs Organization's COVID-19 Project concluded in May 2023, aiming to enhance member customs' capacity to respond to pandemics and other emergencies. Through capacity building, tool development, and experience sharing, the project significantly improved member customs' emergency preparedness and response capabilities, setting a benchmark for global customs cooperation. The WCO will continue to provide guidance and technical assistance, strengthening international cooperation to address global challenges collectively.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Interpretation of The New Customs Declaration Form: Guidelines for Filling in Consignor, Consignee, and Manufacturer/seller

Interpretation of The New Customs Declaration Form: Guidelines for Filling in Consignor, Consignee, and Manufacturer/seller

This article provides clear guidance for readers by analyzing the filling requirements for 'consignor and consignee' and 'production and sales unit' in the new customs declaration form. The export customs declaration must include relevant information about the enterprise registered with customs, highlighting the importance of contract execution.

07/21/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Pallets Remain Vital to Global Freight Shipping Efficiency

Pallets Remain Vital to Global Freight Shipping Efficiency

Pallets are essential tools in modern freight transport, enhancing loading and unloading efficiency and ensuring the safety of goods. They are mainly divided into stringer pallets and block pallets, making them particularly suitable for scenarios like Amazon FBA. Proper use of pallets can not only reduce losses but also improve overall supply chain efficiency.

08/05/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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