This article explores the key role of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) in maritime regulations, analyzing its importance in maintaining fair competition in the shipping market, protecting consumer rights, and promoting transaction transparency. Additionally, it introduces the fundamental differences and practical implications of FMC regulation concerning VOCCs and NVOCCs.
The WCO held a workshop in Namibia to enhance intellectual property rights enforcement capabilities of Customs administrations in Eastern and Southern Africa. The workshop focused on risk management, information sharing, and the identification of counterfeit medicines. Participants explored strategies to strengthen regional cooperation and combat the trade in illicit goods that infringe on intellectual property rights. The aim was to improve the effectiveness of Customs administrations in protecting intellectual property at the border and fostering a safer and more secure trading environment within the region.
The WCO is assisting Cambodian Customs in combating counterfeit and pirated goods, enhancing its border enforcement capabilities for intellectual property rights, and protecting consumer rights and public health and safety. This collaboration aims to strengthen Cambodia's ability to prevent the entry of illicit goods, safeguarding legitimate businesses and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. The WCO's support includes training, technical assistance, and the sharing of best practices in customs enforcement and intellectual property protection.
The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission has issued new regulations prohibiting unreasonable refusal to carry by shipping companies, aimed at protecting cargo owner rights. The new rules clarify the legal provisions regarding refusal actions and require shipping companies to submit confidential export policy documents annually to ensure compliance.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop for Philippine Customs to enhance its capacity to combat counterfeit and pirated goods. The workshop focused on customs challenges under the pandemic, WCO's intellectual property protection tools, and counterfeit goods identification. Rights holders were invited to provide training. The workshop significantly improved the intellectual property protection awareness and counterfeit goods identification skills of Philippine Customs officials, promoting cooperation between customs and rights holders. This initiative aims to strengthen IP enforcement and protect legitimate trade in the Philippines.
The 8th WCO Right Holders Consultation Group Meeting brought together global stakeholders to focus on maritime container supervision, intellectual property protection during the pandemic, and public-private partnerships. Right holders shared their experiences, and the WCO committed to strengthening international cooperation, improving laws and regulations, and raising public awareness to jointly build a new line of defense for intellectual property protection. The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in combating counterfeiting and piracy in an increasingly complex global environment.
This paper addresses the risks faced by foreign trade enterprises and cross-border e-commerce companies when using Forwarder Bills of Lading (HBL), such as forwarder qualifications, destination port agents, and property rights protection. It proposes a systematic risk management strategy, including strict forwarder selection, standardized contract signing, enhanced property rights control, monitoring cargo status, utilizing financial instruments, and establishing emergency plans. The aim is to help companies effectively mitigate HBL risks and ensure trade security. This approach provides a comprehensive framework for managing potential issues associated with HBL usage in international transactions.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the intellectual property litigation environment in Vietnam in 2025. It details the Vietnamese IP litigation system and offers recommendations for companies to select appropriate rights protection agencies, focusing on localization, cross-border collaboration, and risk prevention. Furthermore, the article analyzes common risks associated with IP litigation in Vietnam and proposes corresponding strategies to help companies successfully defend their intellectual property rights in the Vietnamese market. It aims to equip businesses with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of IP enforcement in Vietnam.
The Asian Shippers' Alliance annual meeting adopted an action plan to address rising ocean freight rates and opaque surcharges. The plan includes appeals to the International Chamber of Commerce and the World Trade Organization, advocating for simplified freight rates and reasonable surcharges. It also supports supply chain security measures and urges Asian countries to develop pro-competitive maritime regulations to protect shipper rights. The alliance aims to ensure fee transparency and fair treatment for shippers in the face of increasing costs and complex fee structures in the maritime industry.
Xiantu Intellectual Property integrates AI, OCR, and automation to create an "Intelligent Process Engine," providing law firms/agencies with efficient and accurate solutions for handling foreign-related intellectual property cases. Services cover global application and management of patents, trademarks, and copyrights, helping clients focus on strategic consulting and value enhancement. This technology streamlines workflows, reduces errors, and accelerates the process of securing and managing intellectual property rights internationally, ultimately empowering clients to better protect their innovations and brands.
