WCO Issues Guidance on Customs Valuation and Transfer Pricing

WCO Issues Guidance on Customs Valuation and Transfer Pricing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) guide aims to harmonize customs valuation and transfer pricing, addressing the challenges posed by related-party transactions. It draws on practical experiences from various countries. The guide seeks to provide clarity and promote consistent application of valuation principles in the context of international trade, especially when dealing with multinational enterprises and their internal pricing policies. This harmonization effort is crucial for ensuring fair revenue collection and preventing trade distortions arising from discrepancies between customs valuation and transfer pricing methodologies.

02/02/2026 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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Customs Valuation of Software Carriers Analyzed in DECISION 41 Study

Customs Valuation of Software Carriers Analyzed in DECISION 41 Study

This article interprets the Customs Valuation Committee DECISION 4.1 resolution, addressing the valuation challenges of software carriers. It elaborates on two valuation methods, special circumstances considerations, and corresponding corporate strategies. The aim is to provide clarity and guidance on how to properly value software carriers for customs purposes, ensuring compliance and minimizing potential disputes in international trade. The article offers practical insights for businesses involved in the import and export of software-related products.

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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Cameroon Boosts Afcfta Customs Rules with WCO Backing

Cameroon Boosts Afcfta Customs Rules with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on Rules of Origin (RoO) for the AfCFTA in Cameroon, aiming to enhance the understanding and application of these rules by Cameroonian Customs and the private sector. The workshop covered principles of rule-making, specific provisions, and operational issues. It seeks to promote trade development between Cameroon and other African countries, contributing to African economic integration. The initiative underscores the importance of RoO in facilitating trade and ensuring the benefits of the AfCFTA are realized effectively.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Mutual Recognition Agreements Strengthen Global AEO Trade Programs

Mutual Recognition Agreements Strengthen Global AEO Trade Programs

Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) are a core component of Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs, designed to reduce trade costs, improve efficiency, enhance supply chain security, and boost corporate competitiveness through customs cooperation and mutual recognition of AEO certifications. The advancement of MRAs faces challenges such as differing certification standards and information security concerns. Future development will focus on broader coverage, deeper content, and wider application of technology to streamline processes and enhance security throughout the global supply chain.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Datadriven Customs Modernize Global Trade for Security Efficiency

Datadriven Customs Modernize Global Trade for Security Efficiency

Interconnected Customs (DRI) is a strategic concept of the World Customs Organization to promote global trade security and facilitation. It aims to enhance collaboration and information sharing among customs administrations worldwide. However, the implementation of DRI faces challenges such as data security and privacy concerns. Strengthening international cooperation and developing robust data governance frameworks are crucial to address these challenges and fully realize the potential of DRI in facilitating legitimate trade and combating illicit activities.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Talks Highlight Trade Facilitation Through Data Sharing

WTO Talks Highlight Trade Facilitation Through Data Sharing

The WTO Trade Facilitation Negotiating Group meeting was held in Geneva, focusing on information exchange mechanisms, capacity building needs assessments, and member experience sharing. During the meeting, participants deepened their understanding of proposals, members shared practical experiences and put forward new proposals, with capacity building and technical assistance becoming a key focus. Subsequent meetings will continue to advance the negotiations. The discussions aimed to streamline trade processes and reduce barriers for smoother global commerce, ultimately fostering economic growth and development among WTO members.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Ensured Global Trade Stability During Pandemic

WCO Ensured Global Trade Stability During Pandemic

Amidst the global pandemic, the World Customs Organization (WCO) actively coordinates its member customs administrations to address the impact on international trade. This is achieved through information sharing, trade facilitation measures, enhanced international cooperation, and protection of frontline customs officers. The WCO established a dedicated COVID-19 information webpage, simplified customs clearance procedures for essential medical supplies, promoted the revised Kyoto Convention, and provided capacity building support. These efforts significantly contribute to ensuring global trade stability and fostering economic recovery during these challenging times.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Eastsouthern Africa Customs Officials Tackle Transfer Pricing

Eastsouthern Africa Customs Officials Tackle Transfer Pricing

A joint workshop by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the OECD aimed to enhance the expertise of customs officials in East and Southern Africa on transfer pricing and customs valuation. The initiative promotes regional customs cooperation, maintains fair trade practices, and combats tax evasion. By strengthening the capacity of customs administrations in these areas, the workshop supports efforts to ensure accurate valuation of goods and prevent illicit financial flows, ultimately contributing to a more transparent and equitable global trading system.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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