New Global Guidelines Clarify Customs Valuation of Franchise Fees

New Global Guidelines Clarify Customs Valuation of Franchise Fees

The World Customs Organization issued a new advisory opinion clarifying that franchise fees should not be included in the customs valuation of imported goods under specific circumstances. Originating from a Mexican case and confirmed by the Technical Committee on Customs Valuation, this opinion aims to reduce import costs for businesses and enhance customs valuation transparency. Companies should study the opinion, assess their franchise agreements, and communicate with customs authorities to ensure valuation compliance and capitalize on trade opportunities. This helps in correctly determining the dutiable value and avoiding potential penalties.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
US Considers Xinjiang Product Ban Threatening Supply Chains

US Considers Xinjiang Product Ban Threatening Supply Chains

The US Senate passed a bill aiming to comprehensively ban imports from Xinjiang, China, based on a "presumption of guilt" principle. This impacts not only cotton and tomatoes but the entire supply chain. The bill is expected to pass the House and be signed by Biden. Businesses must immediately assess risks, reshape supply chains, and address the challenges posed by rising trade protectionism. The ban will force companies to provide clear and convincing evidence that their products are not made with forced labor, placing a significant burden on due diligence and compliance.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
EC Markets Partners with Liverpool FC to Merge Trading and Football Strategies

EC Markets Partners with Liverpool FC to Merge Trading and Football Strategies

EC Markets partnered with Liverpool Football Club to launch "Hold or Trade," a project exploring the decision-making mindset in both football and financial trading. Through content, education, and interactive experiences, the initiative aims to boost brand awareness and empower traders to improve their decision-making skills. While challenges exist regarding target audience engagement, content quality, and regulatory compliance, the project has the potential to revitalize EC Markets and create a unique connection with its audience by leveraging the passion for football and the complexities of financial trading.

01/28/2026 International Settlement
Read More
Ultimate Guide to Safe Transport of Batteries

Ultimate Guide to Safe Transport of Batteries

Battery transportation is particularly important due to its high risks and complex compliance requirements. This article delves into the classification, preparation, and best practices for transporting batteries, aiming to assist practitioners in ensuring safety and compliance throughout the transportation process.

07/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
France Invalidates 1000 VAT Numbers Disrupts Crossborder Sellers

France Invalidates 1000 VAT Numbers Disrupts Crossborder Sellers

A widespread invalidation of French VAT numbers is creating a compliance crisis for cross-border sellers. This article delves into the reasons behind the issue, provides methods for verifying VAT numbers, and offers advice on selecting a VAT service provider. It aims to help sellers mitigate risks and ensure stable operations in the French market by navigating the complexities of VAT compliance and avoiding potential penalties associated with invalid VAT numbers and non-compliance.

01/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Fedex Pays 228M in Gig Worker Misclassification Settlement

Fedex Pays 228M in Gig Worker Misclassification Settlement

FedEx paid $228 million to settle a case for misclassifying employees as independent contractors. This case highlights the legal and reputational risks associated with the independent contractor model and the importance of compliance operations. Companies should strengthen compliance management to ensure business activities comply with laws and regulations, achieving sustainable development. Proper classification of workers is crucial to avoid penalties and maintain ethical business practices. Ignoring compliance can lead to significant financial and legal repercussions.

01/01/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Tunisian Banks Adopt SWIFT Codes for Faster Global Transfers

Tunisian Banks Adopt SWIFT Codes for Faster Global Transfers

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the Tunisian Foreign Bank's SWIFT/BIC code, UTUBTNTTXXX. It details its usage scenarios, important considerations, and how to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of international money transfers. By understanding this information, you can easily manage international remittances and avoid unnecessary delays and errors. The article focuses on practical aspects of using the SWIFT code for transactions involving Tunisian Foreign Bank.

09/03/2025 International Settlement
Read More
Italy Imposes 50000 VAT Guarantee on Ecommerce Sellers

Italy Imposes 50000 VAT Guarantee on Ecommerce Sellers

An Italian VAT compliance storm is brewing, with a €50,000 guarantee posing a difficult choice for cross-border e-commerce sellers. This article delves into the core focus of tax compliance, seller response strategies, and lingering issues after VAT deregistration. It supplements crucial information to help sellers make informed decisions by weighing cost accounting against compliance risks. It provides insights into navigating the complexities of Italian VAT regulations and mitigating potential financial burdens while ensuring adherence to legal requirements.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Global Air Cargo Sector Sees Growth with IATA Consulting

Global Air Cargo Sector Sees Growth with IATA Consulting

IATA Consultancy provides air cargo strategy and forecasting services, helping businesses gain market insights, optimize products, ensure compliance, and leverage data for growth. With authoritative data and a professional team, IATA offers accurate forecasts, benchmarking analysis, objective assessments, and compliance reviews. We provide a one-stop solution, empowering clients to excel in the competitive air cargo market. Our services enable informed decision-making, improved operational efficiency, and a stronger market position through strategic planning and proactive compliance management.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Maersk Launches Mauritius Trade Solutions

Maersk Launches Mauritius Trade Solutions

Maersk offers localized and integrated logistics solutions in Mauritius, streamlining supply chains and boosting efficiency to support business growth. We optimize digital experiences through Cookie management and provide customized services including customs clearance, warehousing, and inland transportation, along with comprehensive freight forwarding and supply chain management solutions. Our new booking solution enables instant confirmation, improving booking efficiency and providing greater control over your shipments.

09/28/2025 Logistics
Read More