WCO Conference Global Customs Push for Green Trade Barriers

WCO Conference Global Customs Push for Green Trade Barriers

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Green Customs Global Conference highlighted customs' crucial role in environmental protection. Through strategic upgrades, round table discussions, and technological innovations, the conference explored topics such as the circular economy, cross-border waste management, and the greening of the Harmonized System (HS). The aim was to promote green trade, enhance regulatory efficiency, strengthen international cooperation, and collectively address environmental challenges, building a global green barrier.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Proposes Green Shift for Chemical Trade Via HS Codes

WCO Proposes Green Shift for Chemical Trade Via HS Codes

A WCO workshop explored using the Harmonized System (HS) code to identify and manage traded chemicals, supporting environmental sustainability. The discussions emphasized the need for improvements to the HS system and promoted dialogue on a 'Green HS'. This aims to leverage HS codes for better tracking and regulation of chemicals with environmental impacts, ultimately fostering more sustainable trade practices and contributing to global environmental protection efforts. The workshop highlighted the potential of the HS code to play a crucial role in achieving a greener and more responsible chemical trade landscape.

01/16/2026 HS Code Query
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WCO Publishes 2022 HS Explanatory Notes for Trade Classification

WCO Publishes 2022 HS Explanatory Notes for Trade Classification

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 2022 edition of the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) in print. This provides practical guidance on technical descriptions and classification of goods, serving as the official interpretation of HS codes. Purchase of the print version includes amendment supplements. An online subscription option is also available through the WCO Trade Tools platform. As a global leader in customs affairs, the WCO assists trade professionals in accurate customs clearance.

01/05/2026 HS Code Query
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Chile Advances Trade with Customs System Workshop

Chile Advances Trade with Customs System Workshop

Chile successfully hosted a national seminar in Valparaiso on the Harmonized System and Customs Tariff Management. The seminar aimed to enhance the professional skills of customs officials in commodity classification and tariff management, ensuring consistent application of the HS 2017 version and improving current working methods. With the assistance of the WCO, Chile Customs will continue to improve its capabilities, making greater contributions to promoting Chile's economic development and facilitating international trade.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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A Comprehensive Guide to HVAC HS Code Classification for Smooth Customs Clearance

A Comprehensive Guide to HVAC HS Code Classification for Smooth Customs Clearance

This article discusses the classification of air conditioners under the customs HS codes, including window, wall-mounted, and ceiling-mounted units. Based on the latest revisions of the 2017 Harmonized System, there have been changes in the classification of standing and wall-installed air conditioners. Additionally, portable and central air conditioners are categorized under specific items. The article advises users to properly adjust the temperature of air conditioners to prevent discomfort caused by excessive temperature differences.

07/28/2025 HS Code Query
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WCO Enhances Antiillegal Logging Efforts with New Tools

WCO Enhances Antiillegal Logging Efforts with New Tools

On the occasion of the 2024 International Day of Forests, this article highlights the crucial role of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in combating illegal timber trade. Through international cooperation, updating the Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature, and conducting 'Operation Thunder', the WCO helps customs administrations enhance their enforcement capabilities. By utilizing innovative technologies such as Geographic Information Systems, GPS trackers, and drones, the WCO effectively monitors timber trade, protects forest resources, and collectively safeguards our planet.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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El Salvador Upgrades Customs Labs to Boost Trade Efficiency

El Salvador Upgrades Customs Labs to Boost Trade Efficiency

El Salvador hosted a workshop on modernizing customs laboratories to enhance commodity classification capabilities and promote trade facilitation. Sponsored by the World Customs Organization (WCO), the workshop focused on the Harmonized System (HS) classification and international cooperation. The aim was to improve the accuracy and efficiency of customs procedures, ultimately contributing to smoother and faster trade flows. This initiative underscores the importance of modern customs infrastructure and skilled personnel in supporting global trade and economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Nigeria Customs Boosts Efficiency with Wcobacked HS Code Reform

Nigeria Customs Boosts Efficiency with Wcobacked HS Code Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the European Union, held a high-level workshop in Nigeria to enhance the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)'s expertise in Harmonized System (HS) coding. Through a combination of theoretical and practical training, the workshop aimed to improve the accuracy of customs officials in classifying goods, thereby promoting trade facilitation and injecting new vitality into Nigeria's economic development. This initiative is crucial for ensuring efficient customs procedures and boosting international trade competitiveness.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Advocates Green Customs to Promote Sustainable Trade

WCO Advocates Green Customs to Promote Sustainable Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held its first symposium focusing on “Green Customs,” exploring the role of the Harmonized System (HS) in supporting environmentally sustainable trade. The meeting brought together representatives to propose more feasible “green” solutions for the 2027 and subsequent HS versions. It emphasized the importance of international cooperation and innovation in promoting sustainable development within global trade practices. The symposium aimed to identify concrete steps for integrating environmental considerations into the HS nomenclature.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Stainless Steel HS Codes Averts Trade Barriers

Guide to Stainless Steel HS Codes Averts Trade Barriers

This article provides an in-depth analysis of HS code classification for stainless steel, covering its definition, categories, international standards, and visual identification of cold-rolled versus hot-rolled finishes. Through case studies and key takeaways, it offers a precise declaration guide for freight forwarders, aiming to avoid trade risks. It elaborates on the complexities of correctly classifying stainless steel products under the Harmonized System, emphasizing the importance of accurate declarations to ensure smooth customs clearance and compliance with international trade regulations.

09/26/2025 HS Code Query
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