WCO and Japan Boost Trade Compliance with Lab Upgrades

WCO and Japan Boost Trade Compliance with Lab Upgrades

The World Customs Organization (WCO) launched the "Customs Laboratory Regional Programme" to enhance the chemical analysis capabilities and HS code classification skills of its member customs administrations. Supported by Japan Customs, the program targets customs laboratory analysts and future professionals, offering training in cutting-edge technologies, laboratory management optimization, tariff classification mastery, and understanding of the WCO system. It aims to empower participants to improve their professional competence and promote global trade compliance. The program focuses on practical skills and knowledge transfer to improve efficiency and accuracy in customs operations.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Addresses Global Crises Reforms Trade Policies

WCO Addresses Global Crises Reforms Trade Policies

The World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized the importance of reshaping international rules amidst global crises at the annual meeting of international organizations. By publishing the 'Compendium of International Organizations Practices,' the WCO actively participates in international cooperation, ensuring the smooth flow of goods during the pandemic. It also advocates for establishing a culture of assessing international instruments to address future challenges. The WCO calls for collective efforts to build a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable global trade system, highlighting the need for collaborative solutions in a rapidly changing world.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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
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WCO Tackles Ecommerce Challenges at Davos Forum

WCO Tackles Ecommerce Challenges at Davos Forum

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization attended the Davos Forum, focusing on the opportunities and challenges presented by cross-border e-commerce. Through multilateral meetings, the crucial role of customs in trade facilitation was emphasized. The Secretary General actively advocated for data sharing, technology application, and international cooperation, aiming to build a secure and efficient cross-border e-commerce ecosystem and enhance the influence of customs in global trade. The discussions highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to address evolving complexities and ensure seamless trade flows in the digital age.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Strengthens Bosnias Anticounterfeit Customs Efforts

WCO Strengthens Bosnias Anticounterfeit Customs Efforts

The World Customs Organization (WCO) organized an online workshop for Bosnia and Herzegovina Customs to enhance their capacity in intellectual property rights protection and address the challenges posed by counterfeit and pirated goods during the pandemic. Rights holders shared anti-counterfeiting techniques and emphasized the use of risk management tools. The WCO continues to strengthen the capacity building of its member customs administrations to build a safe and reliable trading environment. This initiative aims to equip customs officers with the necessary skills to combat the illicit trade of counterfeit goods.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Zimbabwe Boosts Trade Audits with WCO Support

Zimbabwe Boosts Trade Audits with WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Zimbabwe to enhance its customs' post-clearance audit (PCA) capabilities, implement the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), and strengthen customs-private sector cooperation. The workshop aimed to improve the effectiveness of PCA processes, ensuring compliance and promoting legitimate trade. By building capacity in PCA, Zimbabwe customs can better manage risks, optimize revenue collection, and contribute to a more efficient and secure trading environment. The event underscored the importance of collaboration between customs administrations and businesses in achieving trade facilitation goals.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Group Tackles Disruptive Tech in Global Trade

WCO Group Tackles Disruptive Tech in Global Trade

The 44th meeting of the World Customs Organization's Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) focused on the impact of disruptive technologies on global trade. Key topics included cross-border e-commerce, public-private information exchange, and regional cooperation. Through high-level dialogues, the PSCG and WCO Policy Commission members explored the application of technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain in the customs domain. These discussions aimed to build a more efficient and secure future for global trade by leveraging innovative solutions and fostering collaboration between public and private sectors.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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European Ecommerce Firms Face Growth Barriers Competition

European Ecommerce Firms Face Growth Barriers Competition

This article analyzes the challenges faced by cross-border e-commerce in emerging markets. It highlights that while the European market has high barriers to entry, it effectively filters out low-price competition, preserving growth potential for high-quality sellers. The elimination of VAT exemptions for small parcels favors overseas warehouse models. With the European e-commerce sector recovering and showing significant potential, the article advises sellers to diversify channels, cultivate the European market deeply, and achieve sustainable growth. This strategic approach allows for navigating complexities and capitalizing on the region's evolving landscape.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Eus Digital Services Act Imposes Stricter Ad Rules on Tech Giants

Eus Digital Services Act Imposes Stricter Ad Rules on Tech Giants

The EU's Digital Services Act (DSA) aims to regulate online content moderation by large tech companies and promote fair competition. This legislation significantly impacts the advertising strategies of giants like Amazon, Google, and Meta, particularly in protecting vulnerable groups. Implementation of the DSA will increase compliance costs for tech companies, potentially limit their innovation, and reshape the relationship between users and platforms. It may set a new global standard for digital regulation, forcing companies to be more transparent and accountable for the content they host and the advertising they display.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazons Rufus Suggests Offplatform Products Alarming Sellers

Amazons Rufus Suggests Offplatform Products Alarming Sellers

Amazon Shopping Assistant introduces off-site recommendations, not for open redirection, but for attracting select brands to join and strengthen membership loyalty. Independent sites should collaborate with the Amazon ecosystem. AI readability is crucial for traffic. This new feature aims to enhance the customer experience within Amazon while subtly promoting curated brands. By controlling the external recommendations, Amazon maintains control over the customer journey and reinforces its position as a central shopping destination. The success of independent sites depends on understanding and leveraging Amazon's ecosystem, and optimizing content for AI-driven search and recommendation algorithms.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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