Crossborder Ecommerce Faces New Customs Valuation Challenges

Crossborder Ecommerce Faces New Customs Valuation Challenges

The World Customs Organization released Advisory Opinion 4.19, clarifying how to handle royalties that include both patent rights for imported raw materials and trademark rights for the final product in customs valuation. This opinion aims to enhance valuation certainty, reduce trade friction, and assist businesses in tax planning. It offers valuable guidance for cross-border e-commerce and import-export enterprises, particularly regarding the treatment of royalties in determining customs value. The advisory opinion provides a framework for consistently applying valuation principles to complex licensing agreements.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Brazil Study Reveals Trade Facilitation Opportunities

Brazil Study Reveals Trade Facilitation Opportunities

Brazil's first national Time Release Study (TRS) revealed an average release time of 7.5 days, with customs clearance accounting for less than 10% and private sector processes exceeding half. The study, following the WCO methodology, aims to enhance transparency and promote trade facilitation, with plans to publicly release the raw data. The research underscores the critical role of data-driven approaches in optimizing customs procedures and fostering trade facilitation. It highlights areas for improvement within both public and private sectors to streamline the overall import/export process.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Food Packaging Industry Faces Demand Surge Supply Challenges

Food Packaging Industry Faces Demand Surge Supply Challenges

The pandemic accelerated the restaurant industry's reliance on food delivery, driving transformation in the food packaging sector. This report analyzes challenges such as raw material shortages, design innovation, and sustainability. It proposes future trends including intelligent, personalized, and environmentally friendly packaging. The report suggests businesses strengthen supply chain management, increase R&D investment, and embrace sustainable development principles to enhance market competitiveness. Companies should focus on innovative materials and designs, while also addressing environmental concerns and adapting to evolving consumer preferences in the delivery economy.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Growth Slows in July As Inventories Dip

US Manufacturing Growth Slows in July As Inventories Dip

The ISM's July manufacturing report indicates a slight dip in the PMI, with key indicators like new orders and production generally declining, increasing the risk of inventory buildup. Businesses commonly cite inflation, reduced orders, and raw material supply issues. Experts believe that manufacturing has not fallen into recession, but caution against inventory risk and emphasize the need for refined operations. The report suggests a slowing manufacturing sector facing challenges related to demand and supply chain disruptions, requiring careful management of inventory levels to mitigate potential losses.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Maritime Exports Fuel Global Trade and Supply Chains

US Maritime Exports Fuel Global Trade and Supply Chains

This article delves into the types of US ocean freight exports, their economic impact, and their role in the global supply chain. US exports, including agricultural products, manufactured goods, raw materials, and chemicals, are crucial for global economic growth, job creation, and trade balance. The article also emphasizes the importance of sustainability in ocean freight exports and the efforts made by the US to reduce environmental impact. It highlights the need for continuous improvement in green shipping practices to ensure a more sustainable future for global trade.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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LED Lighting Costs Rise Amid Supply Chain Pressures

LED Lighting Costs Rise Amid Supply Chain Pressures

In early 2026, the LED lighting industry experienced a widespread price increase, with giants like Signify, Opple Lighting, and Inventronics announcing adjustments. This article delves into the reasons behind the price surge, including rising raw material costs and supply chain fluctuations, and explores its impact on the market. It also proposes strategies for companies to cope with the price increase, such as optimizing the supply chain and improving efficiency, aiming to provide reference for the industry and help companies achieve sustainable development in the face of challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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EU Tightens Metal Import Rules Mandates MTC Certification

EU Tightens Metal Import Rules Mandates MTC Certification

The EU has imposed new sanctions on Russian metal exports, requiring metal products exported to the EU to provide MTC certificates or related proof to verify that the raw materials are not of Russian origin. European sellers need to review their supply chains, apply for MTC certificates, prepare alternative documentation, and closely monitor changes in EU policies to ensure compliant operations and smooth customs clearance. This involves understanding the new regulations and proactively adapting business practices to avoid disruptions and maintain access to the European market.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Kraft Heinz Adopts AI to Modernize Supply Chain

Kraft Heinz Adopts AI to Modernize Supply Chain

Kraft Heinz is reshaping its supply chain with AI, machine learning, and control tower technology, aiming for end-to-end visibility and efficiency from farm to table. The "Beacon" control tower provides real-time insights, while AI engines optimize production and raw material quality. "PlantChat" empowers employees' decision-making. Kraft Heinz is transitioning from reactive responses to proactive prediction and optimization, setting a benchmark for digital transformation in the food industry. This initiative demonstrates how AI can revolutionize food production and supply chain management for improved efficiency and quality control.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Sherwinwilliams Invests 300M in NC Plant to Strengthen Resin Supply

Sherwinwilliams Invests 300M in NC Plant to Strengthen Resin Supply

Sherwin-Williams is investing $300 million to expand its North Carolina facility, boosting its coatings production capacity and resin self-sufficiency. This investment aims to address supply shortages and inflationary pressures within the coatings market. The expansion will create approximately 180 new jobs. By increasing internal resin production, Sherwin-Williams seeks to mitigate disruptions in the supply chain and control costs, ensuring a more stable and reliable supply of raw materials for its coatings manufacturing operations. This strategic move enhances the company's resilience in a volatile economic environment.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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