New Customs Rules Clarify Valuation of Franchise Royalties

New Customs Rules Clarify Valuation of Franchise Royalties

The new WCO regulations clarify that franchise and brand royalties are not included in customs valuation if they are not directly related to the imported goods. Businesses need to understand the criteria for determining this direct relationship to minimize trade costs. This clarification provides greater certainty and potentially reduces the customs duties payable on imported goods where franchise or brand royalties are involved but are unrelated to the specific characteristics or production of those goods.

WCO Backs Timorleste in Customs Training Strategy Development

WCO Backs Timorleste in Customs Training Strategy Development

The World Customs Organization (WCO) provided technical assistance to Timor-Leste Customs, helping to develop a training strategy and plan for 2017-2019. This initiative aimed to comprehensively enhance the professional skills of customs officers, build a robust internal training center, promote customs modernization, and improve Timor-Leste's trade environment. The project is part of the WCO-Norway Customs Capacity Building Programme, which covers several developing countries and aims to improve their customs administration.

WCO Launches Leadership Program for Palestinian Customs Officers

WCO Launches Leadership Program for Palestinian Customs Officers

The WCO conducted a leadership workshop for Palestinian Customs, aiming to enhance the skills of middle and senior managers and support customs modernization. The workshop received positive feedback from participants. The training focused on improving leadership capabilities within the customs administration to facilitate more effective operations and contribute to the overall modernization efforts of Palestinian Customs. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of customs procedures in Palestine.

Maldives Customs Boosts Efficiency with Leadership Training

Maldives Customs Boosts Efficiency with Leadership Training

The Maldives Customs Service held an executive leadership management development retreat to implement the Mercator Implementation Plan, enhance teamwork and leadership, and optimize organizational development. The aim was to formulate a reliable strategic plan before World Customs Day, improve customs efficiency, and promote national economic development. The retreat focused on strengthening leadership skills and fostering collaboration to effectively execute strategic initiatives and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of the Maldives.

Vietnam Airlines Expands China South Korea Routes Amid Trade Push

Vietnam Airlines Expands China South Korea Routes Amid Trade Push

Vietnam Airlines announced the launch of new routes in 2025, including Beijing Daxing to Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang to Busan, along with increased frequencies on the Beijing Capital Airport to Hanoi route. This aims to strengthen air connectivity between China and Vietnam, and Vietnam and South Korea, providing more convenient air transport for international trade and cultural exchange. The new routes will utilize Airbus A321 aircraft, offering a comfortable travel experience.

02/13/2025 Logistics
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Ozons Warehousing Shift Opens Opportunities for Crossborder Sellers

Ozons Warehousing Shift Opens Opportunities for Crossborder Sellers

Ozon has significantly reduced the free storage period for bulky items to 30 days, which may increase short-term cost pressure. However, warehousing rates have been substantially lowered. Sellers need to optimize inventory management, accelerate product turnover, and flexibly adjust logistics and sales strategies to turn challenges into opportunities and achieve cost reduction and efficiency improvement. This requires proactive adaptation and strategic planning to navigate the changing landscape and maintain profitability within the Ozon ecosystem.

01/05/2026 Logistics
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US Streamlines Export Declarations Via National Export System

US Streamlines Export Declarations Via National Export System

The National Export System (NES) is a mandatory electronic declaration system designed to streamline and expedite export declaration processes. Operating within the CHIEF system, it's tightly integrated with customs databases, enhancing the efficiency of data exchange and validation. Export businesses need to master the use of NES to improve export efficiency and compliance. It simplifies the process by allowing electronic submissions and reduces paperwork, leading to faster processing times and improved accuracy in export documentation.

WCO Aids Liberia in Trade Efficiency Study

WCO Aids Liberia in Trade Efficiency Study

The WCO is supporting Liberia Customs in a Time Release Study (TRS) project aimed at improving efficiency and facilitating trade. The project focuses on analyzing and streamlining cargo release processes to reduce delays and enhance overall customs operations. Capacity building initiatives are also included to ensure the sustainability of improvements. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year, contributing to a more efficient and effective customs environment in Liberia.

Latin American Brokers Praise WCO Trade Reforms

Latin American Brokers Praise WCO Trade Reforms

At the Latin American Association of Customs Brokers Congress, the WCO was lauded for its efforts in advancing customs modernization and fostering cooperation. The WCO's Economic Competitiveness Package aims to streamline customs procedures, strengthen international collaboration, promote technology adoption, and deepen public-private partnerships to enhance global trade efficiency. Latin America is actively implementing modernization measures like e-declaration. Customs brokers need to improve their professionalization, digitalization, and cooperation to jointly promote global trade.

SF Express Guide Insuring and Tracking Computer Shipments

SF Express Guide Insuring and Tracking Computer Shipments

This article focuses on frequently asked questions about shipping computers via SF Express. It provides detailed explanations on topics such as whether to insure the package, reasons for logistics information delays and their solutions, and precautions for shipping computers. The aim is to help readers use express delivery services more safely and efficiently. It covers key aspects to consider when entrusting valuable electronics to a courier service, ensuring a smoother and more secure shipping experience.