New Customs Rules Affect Licensing Fees Royalties

New Customs Rules Affect Licensing Fees Royalties

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released new Advisory Opinion 4.19 on customs valuation, addressing the complex valuation issues related to royalties and license fees under Article 8.1(c) of the Customs Valuation Agreement. This opinion clarifies the valuation principles for single royalties encompassing both patents and trademarks. It assists businesses in accurately calculating import costs, reducing valuation disputes, and promoting the healthy development of international trade. This guidance aims to provide clarity and consistency in the application of customs valuation rules related to intellectual property rights.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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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Ecommerce Sellers Face Stricter Crossborder Tax Rules

Ecommerce Sellers Face Stricter Crossborder Tax Rules

Cross-border e-commerce sellers are receiving tax warning messages, causing widespread anxiety about tax compliance within the industry. Experts advise against excessive panic, emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting. Regulators may adopt tiered supervision, and industry standardization is seen as a necessary step for development. The increasing scrutiny highlights the need for businesses to prioritize tax compliance to avoid penalties and ensure long-term sustainability in the evolving regulatory landscape. Accurate record-keeping and proactive engagement with tax authorities are crucial for navigating these challenges.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Amazon Europe Tightens KYC Rules for Sellers

Amazon Europe Tightens KYC Rules for Sellers

Amazon Europe Station has suddenly launched a full KYC audit, requiring even old accounts to submit household registration books and articles of association. This article provides a detailed interpretation of the requirements, required materials, and upload specifications for this audit. It also offers a guide to avoid common pitfalls, helping sellers successfully pass the audit and avoid the risk of store removal. The audit impacts a wide range of sellers and proactive preparation is crucial for continued operation on the European marketplace.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New HOS Rules Offer Truckers Greater Flexibility

New HOS Rules Offer Truckers Greater Flexibility

The US trucking industry is undergoing significant changes with the implementation of new Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, aimed at enhancing driver flexibility and efficiency. The key adjustments focus on four areas: the 30-minute break rule, sleeper berth exception, adverse driving conditions exception, and short-haul operations exception. These changes are projected to save the US economy nearly $274 million annually. The FMCSA actively listens to driver feedback and has established a Driver Subcommittee to collaboratively promote industry development.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Walmart Tightens Supply Chain Rules Pressuring Suppliers

Walmart Tightens Supply Chain Rules Pressuring Suppliers

Walmart tightens its on-time delivery standards for suppliers, demanding higher compliance rates and shorter delivery windows. Suppliers face multiple challenges including supply chain optimization, cost control, and communication coordination. Proactive responses include assessing the supply chain, optimizing transportation, strengthening inventory management, improving order processing efficiency, and actively communicating with Walmart. The overall trend in the retail industry is tightening supply chain standards, requiring suppliers to embrace change to adapt to the competition.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Dutch Firms Face Stricter 2025 Restructuring Rules

Dutch Firms Face Stricter 2025 Restructuring Rules

This article provides a detailed analysis of the 2025 Dutch company transformation process, potential risks, and criteria for selecting reputable service providers. It emphasizes the importance of authority, one-stop service, localization, and cross-border experience. Offering a guide to avoid common pitfalls and solutions for potential risks, the article aims to help businesses smoothly complete the transformation and minimize compliance risks. It provides valuable insights for companies navigating Dutch company changes and selecting the right partners for a compliant and efficient process.

12/27/2025 International Settlement
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Amazon Tightens Return Rate Rules for Sellers

Amazon Tightens Return Rate Rules for Sellers

Amazon's new policy imposes stricter controls on products with high return rates, including adding labels and delisting ASINs. Sellers should check email notifications and "Voice of the Customer" reports. To reduce return rates, sellers should optimize listings, improve product quality, enhance packaging and shipping, and proactively address after-sales issues. Data analysis tools like ECPP ERP can help sellers identify problematic products and monitor risks, building automated protection capabilities. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining a healthy Amazon business and avoiding penalties associated with excessive returns.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Patent Office Overhauls SEP Governance Rules

US Patent Office Overhauls SEP Governance Rules

The USPTO has established an SEP working group to address patent licensing challenges in areas such as communications and AI. This marks a shift in the US from a 'judicial passive' approach to an 'administrative active' one, aiming to reshape the SEP governance system. This initiative could potentially influence global technology licensing rules by proactively addressing issues and potentially setting new standards for SEP licensing practices. The working group's findings and recommendations are expected to play a significant role in shaping future policies related to SEPs in the US and beyond.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Australia Tightens Rules on Overseas Furniture Imports

Australia Tightens Rules on Overseas Furniture Imports

This article provides a detailed explanation of the duty threshold for sea freighting furniture from China to Australia (AUD 950 for personal effects, AUD 1000 for commercial imports). It also offers guidance on calculating customs duties and practical tips for saving money, including controlling declared value, identifying duty-free items, and consulting professionals. This helps you easily manage furniture sea freight and avoid unnecessary costs.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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