WCO Updates Customs Lab Handbook to Boost Regional Standards

WCO Updates Customs Lab Handbook to Boost Regional Standards

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has updated its Customs Laboratory Guide, adding Annex V, which provides information on Regional Customs Laboratories (RCLs) and the procedures and requirements for establishing them. This initiative aims to strengthen regional capacity building, assisting members in upgrading their laboratories and becoming regional benchmarks. The guide, available in English and French on the WCO Members' website, serves as a crucial resource for customs laboratory advancement. It promotes cooperation and knowledge sharing within regions to enhance analytical capabilities and facilitate trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Francophone African Officials Boost Customs Expertise

Francophone African Officials Boost Customs Expertise

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a training session in Mauritius for customs officials from French-speaking African countries. The training aimed to enhance their expertise in HS coding and customs valuation. Through theoretical learning, practical exercises, and group discussions, participants not only mastered relevant knowledge but also strengthened their awareness of regional cooperation, laying the foundation for better serving international trade in the future. The training also explored the challenges and opportunities of HS coding in regional applications.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Moves to Standardize Global Customs Valuation Rules

WTO Moves to Standardize Global Customs Valuation Rules

The 1983 Customs Valuation Committee Decision clarified that the English term "undertaken" in the Customs Valuation Agreement should be interpreted as "carried out." This aims to standardize international trade terminology, enhance the accuracy and consistency of customs valuation, reduce the risk of trade disputes, and facilitate international trade. The French and Spanish versions of the term remain unchanged. This clarification ensures a more uniform application of the agreement across different language versions, promoting fairness and predictability in international trade transactions.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Disputes Over RD Valuation in Trade

Global Customs Disputes Over RD Valuation in Trade

This article delves into the multilingual definition of “Research and Development” expenses within the World Customs Organization's Valuation Agreement, specifically examining discrepancies between the English, French, and Spanish versions. It incorporates Argentina's unique perspective and provides practical guidance for businesses to accurately declare R&D expenses, avoid valuation disputes, and ensure smooth customs clearance. The analysis highlights the importance of understanding nuances in different language versions of the agreement to mitigate risks associated with customs valuation and international trade compliance.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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French VAT Rules Disrupt Crossborder Ecommerce

French VAT Rules Disrupt Crossborder Ecommerce

A widespread invalidation of French VAT numbers has shaken the cross-border e-commerce community. This article advises sellers to immediately check their VAT number status to avoid potential suspension of sales, providing the official website and operation guide. It also recommends strengthening communication with tax service providers and diversifying tax risks to cope with the challenges of cross-border e-commerce. Immediate action is crucial to ensure continued business operations and compliance with French tax regulations.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Hong Kong Transshipment Cuts Costs for French Luxury Shopping

Hong Kong Transshipment Cuts Costs for French Luxury Shopping

This article details the advantages and considerations of transshipping French goods via Hong Kong. It aims to help consumers understand how to leverage Hong Kong's favorable conditions to reduce shipping costs, shorten transit times, and successfully complete customs clearance. Furthermore, it addresses frequently asked questions about transshipment, empowering readers to easily embark on their French shopping journey. The guide covers practical tips for selecting a reliable transshipment service and navigating potential challenges, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective experience for international shoppers.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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Guide to Selling Kitchenware Online in France

Guide to Selling Kitchenware Online in France

This article provides a detailed guide for cross-border e-commerce sellers shipping kitchenware to France. It covers crucial aspects such as market research, qualification preparation, platform selection, logistics and customs clearance, marketing promotion, and after-sales service. This guide aims to help sellers successfully tap into the lucrative French market and maximize their potential for profit within the kitchenware sector. By following these guidelines, sellers can navigate the complexities of the French market and establish a thriving online business.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

WCO Program Strengthens African Customs for Trade Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO), with EU funding, held a Technical and Operational Advisor (TOA) accreditation workshop for French-speaking African countries. The aim was to enhance customs officials' skills in areas like commodity classification, origin, and valuation. Through pre-accreditation and field visit assessments, the project seeks to expand the pool of experts and facilitate regional trade. Quantitative evaluation and continuous improvement are crucial for the project's success, contributing to the upgrading of African trade. The program ultimately aims to streamline customs procedures and boost economic development within the region.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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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Guide to Shipping Personal Items to France

Guide to Shipping Personal Items to France

This article provides a comprehensive practical guide for sending personal belongings to France. It covers essential aspects such as choosing a postal service, packing and declaring items, filling out information, selecting a shipping method, calculating postage, tracking items, and navigating customs procedures. The guide also addresses frequently asked questions, aiming to help readers complete international shipping efficiently and conveniently. It offers insights into the intricacies of French postal regulations and customs requirements, ensuring a smoother shipping experience.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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