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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Xiamen 2026 Expo to Spotlight Crossborder Ecommerce Trends

Xiamen 2026 Expo to Spotlight Crossborder Ecommerce Trends

The 2026 China (Xiamen) International Cross-border E-commerce Exhibition positions itself as a B2B supply chain trading platform. Utilizing an innovative model of "Trade Fair + Foreign Trade E-commerce Festival," it gathers global importers and exporters, e-commerce platforms, and service providers. The event focuses on cross-border product selection, platform services, and imported goods, helping businesses grasp market trends, expand international operations, and achieve transformation and upgrading. It aims to facilitate global trade and empower businesses to thrive in the evolving cross-border e-commerce landscape.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Lithium Battery Export Rules IMDG Compliance Guide

Lithium Battery Export Rules IMDG Compliance Guide

This article provides an in-depth interpretation of the IMDG Code's Special Provision P903, focusing on the core requirements for lithium battery export packaging. It details crucial aspects such as preventing shocks and displacement, the integration of equipment and batteries, and preventing accidental activation and short circuits. The importance of Watt-hour rating labels, prohibition of limited quantity packaging, and specific markings are also emphasized. This article allows readers to comprehensively understand the compliance requirements for lithium battery sea freight packaging, ensuring the safe and smooth delivery of goods to their destination.

01/29/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Uschina Trade Deal Tests Logistics Supply Chain Resilience

Uschina Trade Deal Tests Logistics Supply Chain Resilience

The US-China Phase One trade deal, while signed, hasn't ended its impact on global logistics and supply chains. Although the agreement committed China to increased purchases of US goods, tariffs remain and achieving purchase targets faces challenges. Companies need to closely monitor policy developments, assess supply chain risks, optimize structures, strengthen technological innovation, and flexibly adjust strategies to thrive in an uncertain trade environment. The lingering tariffs and unmet purchase goals necessitate a proactive approach to mitigating disruptions and ensuring supply chain resilience in the face of ongoing trade tensions.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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CPG and Retail Firms Adapt SOP for Market Volatility

CPG and Retail Firms Adapt SOP for Market Volatility

In the highly competitive consumer goods and retail industry, integrated and optimized Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) is crucial. This paper explores how companies can improve visibility, agility, and profitability to gain a competitive edge in a rapidly changing market. We examine the role of more accurate demand forecasting, optimized supply and capacity planning, efficient production and delivery coordination, consensus plan development, and advanced optimization and automation in achieving S&OP excellence. Ultimately, these strategies enable businesses to better navigate market volatility and improve overall supply chain performance.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Pilot Freight Acquires DSI to Boost Ecommerce Lastmile Delivery

Pilot Freight Acquires DSI to Boost Ecommerce Lastmile Delivery

Pilot Freight Services has acquired DSI Logistics to enhance its last mile delivery capabilities, particularly for heavy and hard-to-handle goods. This acquisition will expand Pilot Last Mile's service coverage, making it the second-largest provider of last mile delivery services for oversized items in the US. The move aims to improve customer satisfaction, drive business growth, and lead industry development. The strategic acquisition strengthens Pilot's position in the e-commerce logistics landscape and allows them to better serve the growing demand for specialized last mile solutions.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Moldova Boosts Customs Valuation Skills Via WTO Workshop

Moldova Boosts Customs Valuation Skills Via WTO Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a customs valuation workshop in Moldova to enhance the valuation capabilities of Moldovan customs officials within the WTO framework. The workshop focused on establishing and utilizing valuation databases, verifying the authenticity of declared prices, analyzing valuation challenges for special goods, and introducing the advance ruling system. From a data analyst's perspective, the workshop emphasized data standardization, risk assessment model construction, and data support for the advance ruling system, thereby boosting Moldova's trade facilitation level. This initiative aims to streamline customs procedures and promote smoother international trade for Moldova.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho South Africa Enhance Trade to Advance Afcfta

Lesotho South Africa Enhance Trade to Advance Afcfta

Lesotho and South Africa, with the support of the World Customs Organization, jointly released a Time Release Study report to optimize border management and enhance cross-border trade efficiency. Focusing on the Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge border posts, the study aims to reduce non-tariff trade barriers through coordinated border management and the implementation of one-stop service. This initiative supports the development of the African Continental Free Trade Area and promotes regional economic prosperity by streamlining processes and improving the flow of goods between the two countries.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ozon Russia Outlines January Sales Strategies for Retailers

Ozon Russia Outlines January Sales Strategies for Retailers

This article delves into the characteristics of the Russian Ozon platform in January, specifically proposing five potential product categories: smart heated home goods, winter sports equipment, small appliances and personal care products, automotive supplies, and health care small appliances. It also provides practical operational strategies, including compliant operations, differentiated competition, stable supply chains, flexible cash flow, and refined operations, to help sellers seize peak season opportunities and achieve sales growth. The focus is on maximizing performance within the Ozon marketplace by leveraging seasonal demand and strategic business practices.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Ecommerce Boom Fuels Independent Retail Growth

Global Ecommerce Boom Fuels Independent Retail Growth

The surge in overseas independent e-commerce website shopping marks a new trend. Independent sites attract consumers with personalized experiences, brand autonomy, and technological advancements. This article analyzes the development trends, market size, and user base of overseas independent e-commerce websites, revealing the driving forces behind their growth and exploring their impact on the global e-commerce landscape. Merchants should seize the opportunities presented by independent sites, continuously innovate, and enhance brand value for sustainable development. This shift is reshaping how consumers engage with brands and purchase goods internationally.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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