European Patent Office Fee Hike Costsaving Strategies for Firms

European Patent Office Fee Hike Costsaving Strategies for Firms

The European Patent Office (EPO) will increase official fees from April 1, 2026, with an average rise of 5-8%. Companies should comprehensively review pending and granted patents, prepay fees where possible, file applications early, and streamline claims to mitigate rising costs. In the long term, optimizing patent application strategies and exploring ways to maximize patent value are crucial to offset the impact of the fee increases. Proactive planning and strategic adjustments are essential for maintaining cost-effectiveness in European patent protection.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kazakhstan Enhances IP Protections to Boost Business Growth

Kazakhstan Enhances IP Protections to Boost Business Growth

Kazakhstan's new intellectual property law has been implemented, shortening the trademark registration cycle by 50% and strengthening copyright protection, creating a golden opportunity for companies to accelerate rights confirmation and reduce infringement risks. The new law covers key areas such as expedited trademark examination, extended opposition periods, and enhanced copyright enforcement, aiming to optimize the business environment and attract foreign investment. This provides a more secure and efficient system for businesses operating in or looking to enter the Kazakhstan market.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Mandates Local Representation for Foreign Patent Applicants

US Mandates Local Representation for Foreign Patent Applicants

New USPTO rules mandate that foreign patent applicants must engage US-registered patent attorneys or agents for patent-related matters. This aims to improve application quality and efficiency, and maintain system integrity by preventing procedural errors that could lead to application failure. Companies are advised to review existing applications promptly, select qualified representation, and ensure a compliant transition to mitigate the risk of patent invalidation or litigation. This proactive approach is crucial for safeguarding intellectual property rights in the US.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Usindia Trade Pact Targets 500B Boosts Energy Ties

Usindia Trade Pact Targets 500B Boosts Energy Ties

The US and India have reached a trade agreement where the US lowers tariffs on Indian goods to 18%. India has pledged to purchase over $500 billion worth of US energy, technology, and agricultural products. Furthermore, India will adjust its energy import structure, halting Russian oil imports and shifting to US and Venezuelan crude. This aims to balance bilateral trade. However, fulfilling the procurement commitments remains challenging, and future cooperation is crucial to ensure the success of this agreement and address potential hurdles in its implementation.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ancient Chinese Porcelain Exhibit Debuts in Havana for Lunar New Year

Ancient Chinese Porcelain Exhibit Debuts in Havana for Lunar New Year

The "Happy Chinese New Year: Celebrating the Spring Festival in Museums" exhibition featuring ancient Chinese porcelain has opened in Havana. It aims to enhance the Cuban people's understanding of Chinese culture and deepen China-Cuba friendship through the display of exquisite porcelain. The exhibition has become a highly anticipated cultural event for local residents and will continue to serve as a bridge for cultural exchange in the future.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Trump Announces Trade Deal with India Plans Tariff Reductions

Trump Announces Trade Deal with India Plans Tariff Reductions

Former US President Trump claimed a trade deal with India, significantly reducing tariffs to 18% and stating India would increase purchases of US products and cease buying Russian oil. While the White House hasn't confirmed, Prime Minister Modi has acknowledged the tariff reduction. The news sparked positive market reactions, but the deal's authenticity and specific impacts remain to be seen. The potential agreement focuses on easing trade barriers and shifting India's energy sourcing, but details and official confirmation are crucial for assessing its true significance.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Export Community Aids Firms in Navigating US Trade Barriers

New Export Community Aids Firms in Navigating US Trade Barriers

In response to US trade tariff challenges, a mutual aid community focused on US exports has been established. This community aims to connect foreign trade companies with manufacturing factories, promoting information sharing and experience exchange to help businesses expand opportunities and achieve order growth. The community encourages members to share experiences, but emphasizes that the authenticity of information should be judged independently.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Vietnam to Implement Major New Regulations in 2026

Vietnam to Implement Major New Regulations in 2026

Vietnam will implement a series of new regulations from February 2026, covering expanded occupational disease social insurance, standardized online advertising, strengthened gold market supervision, increased copyright protection, and simplified import/export procedures. These regulations aim to enhance labor rights, optimize user experience, maintain financial stability, protect intellectual property, and improve trade facilitation. This signifies a new stage of development for Vietnam in terms of economic development and social governance.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Amazon Overhauls Tax Reporting for Crossborder Ecommerce

Amazon Overhauls Tax Reporting for Crossborder Ecommerce

The release of Amazon's tax reports signals a new era of "data reconciliation" for cross-border e-commerce. These reports encompass business operating data directly linked to tax declarations. Sellers should promptly download and verify the data, reconcile discrepancies, and adjust their declaration logic to embrace the "accrual basis" accounting. Pilot programs in multiple regions offering "tax exemption without invoices" send positive signals. Only by proactively adapting to regulations can businesses thrive in compliant competition and achieve sustainable growth.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Shanghai Intensifies Crackdown on Export Tax Fraud

Shanghai Intensifies Crackdown on Export Tax Fraud

Shanghai tax authorities have cracked down on export tax rebate fraud, investigating Shanghai Jinhui Investment Industry Co., Ltd. and Ru Chen International Trade (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. in two separate cases. The individuals involved have been severely punished by law, demonstrating the tax authorities' determination to maintain tax order and safeguard national financial security. The crackdown underscores the commitment to preventing economic crimes related to export tax rebates and ensuring fair trade practices.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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