WTO Committee Clarifies Customs Valuation Rules for Global Trade

WTO Committee Clarifies Customs Valuation Rules for Global Trade

This article provides an in-depth analysis of key decisions made by the WTO Committee on Customs Valuation over the years. It covers critical issues such as royalties, interpretation of terms, treatment of interest, valuation of software carriers, challenges to declared value, and minimum prices. The aim is to offer an authoritative reference for practitioners, promoting fairness and efficiency in international trade. It delves into the nuances of these resolutions, offering practical insights for navigating complex valuation scenarios and ensuring trade compliance.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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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Albania Enhances Polymer Testing with Wcobacked Customs Lab Upgrade

Albania Enhances Polymer Testing with Wcobacked Customs Lab Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted the Albanian Customs Laboratory in enhancing its polymer analysis capabilities. A workshop focused on key techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). In-depth analysis of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) coding of the European Union was also covered. The initiative aims to improve the ability of customs officers to classify and analyze polymers and elastomers, ultimately promoting trade facilitation. This will lead to more accurate tariff classification and better enforcement of customs regulations.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Boosts Customs Modernization in MENA Via Data Analytics

WCO Boosts Customs Modernization in MENA Via Data Analytics

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in partnership with the CCF Korea, held a virtual workshop for senior officials from the Middle East and North Africa region, focusing on data analysis capacity building. The workshop aimed to enhance the region's customs data analysis capabilities to support customs modernization. It covered topics such as introducing a data analysis framework, sharing experiences, presenting capacity building initiatives, and exploring cooperation prospects for the BACUDA project.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Guide Aids Customs Agencies in Adopting Virtual Training

WCO Guide Aids Customs Agencies in Adopting Virtual Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 'Guide to Successful Transition to Live Virtual Training,' offering strategies and techniques to help customs administrations effectively transition to virtual training modalities. Endorsed by reputable institutions and available in multiple languages, the guide covers needs analysis, instructor preparation, learner management, engagement strategies, and evaluation mechanisms. It aims to enhance training effectiveness and address challenges posed by crises. This guide provides practical advice for designing and delivering engaging and impactful virtual training programs for customs officials.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Trade Deal Advances with World Customs Organization Support

WTO Trade Deal Advances with World Customs Organization Support

The WCO Working Group on Trade Facilitation Agreement emphasized the WCO's crucial role in implementing the TFA. Discussions centered on supporting global trade flow through tools and initiatives like National Trade Facilitation Committees, Coordinated Border Management, Time Release Studies, and the Mercator Programme. The meeting also approved a study tool designed to assist members in submitting national practice case studies easily incorporated into implementation guidelines. This aims to further streamline trade processes and enhance efficiency at borders worldwide.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mali Customs HR System Sets Benchmark for West Africa

Mali Customs HR System Sets Benchmark for West Africa

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Mali Customs successfully implemented a competency-based human resources management system. Through broad participation and high-level support, they optimized recruitment, training, and performance management. This experience provides a valuable reference for other developing countries, emphasizing the importance of high-level commitment, broad participation, and a gradual approach. The goal is to enhance the professionalism of the customs workforce and contribute to national economic development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China Customs Advances Global Trade Via WCO Revenue Plan

China Customs Advances Global Trade Via WCO Revenue Plan

China Customs actively participates in the World Customs Organization's Revenue Package Programme, sharing its experience in valuation control to provide a reference for customs administrations in developing countries. Through measures such as risk management, information sharing, technology application, and capacity building, the valuation control system of China Customs contributes to the healthy development of global trade. This involvement showcases China's commitment to trade facilitation and its willingness to assist other nations in improving their customs valuation practices.

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 Handbook Advances Smart Customs and Supply Chain Security

WCO Handbook Advances Smart Customs and Supply Chain Security

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released a Data Analysis Handbook to assist customs administrations worldwide in improving control and ensuring security. The handbook covers concepts, applications, and governance, facilitating risk management and trade facilitation. It provides guidance on leveraging data analysis techniques for enhanced customs operations, ultimately contributing to safer and more efficient global supply chains. The handbook aims to empower customs officials with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively utilize data for informed decision-making.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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