2017 HS Code Revisions Impact Global Trade Practices

2017 HS Code Revisions Impact Global Trade Practices

The World Customs Organization (WCO) implemented its fifth major revision to the Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature and Coding system in 2017. This revision includes 233 sets of amendments spanning key sectors such as agriculture, chemicals, timber, textiles, base metals, machinery, and transportation. The aim of this revision is to enhance the accuracy and applicability of HS codes, thereby having a profound impact on global trade. These changes are crucial for businesses involved in international trade to ensure compliance and accurate classification of goods.

02/03/2026 HS Code Query
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Madagascar Tax Authority Enhances Revenue Via HR Modernization

Madagascar Tax Authority Enhances Revenue Via HR Modernization

The Madagascar Revenue Authority (MRA) is modernizing its human resource management system with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO). By building a competency-based HR management system and empowering the HR department to become a strategic partner, the MRA aims to improve tax collection efficiency, optimize taxpayer services, and ultimately promote sustainable national economic development. The WCO's continued support will provide strong momentum for the MRA's modernization process. The focus is on developing talent and building capacity within the organization.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Asian Ports Face Congestion Ahead of Peak Shipping Season

Asian Ports Face Congestion Ahead of Peak Shipping Season

Several key container ports in Asia are experiencing severe congestion, including Ningbo, Shanghai, and Manila, with Semarang in Indonesia facing potential shutdown. The congestion is caused by a combination of factors including customs inspections, surging cargo volumes, and holidays. Ports are actively taking measures to alleviate the situation. However, with the Chinese Lunar New Year approaching, the congestion is expected to worsen. Foreign trade companies need to plan ahead to mitigate potential disruptions to their supply chains and manage trade risks.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Ozon Marketplace Opens Russian Ecommerce to Chinese Sellers

Ozon Marketplace Opens Russian Ecommerce to Chinese Sellers

This article addresses ten frequently asked questions from Chinese sellers when joining the Ozon platform. It covers aspects like registration review, payment collection, information modification, qualification requirements, APP usage, brand registration, customs duties, logistics, payment methods, and popular product categories. The aim is to help sellers better understand Ozon's rules and regulations, and seize opportunities in the Russian e-commerce market. This guide provides practical information to facilitate a smoother onboarding process and improve sellers' chances of success on Ozon.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Shipping Wigs Internationally to New Zealand

Guide to Shipping Wigs Internationally to New Zealand

This article provides a detailed guide on the procedures and precautions for shipping wigs to New Zealand. It covers aspects such as selecting a courier company, declaring materials, completing customs forms, estimating tariffs, packing techniques, and handling potential special circumstances. It also explores the opportunities and risks of cross-border e-commerce entrepreneurship for college students, offering a reference for entrepreneurs interested in entering the wig market. The guide aims to help navigate the complexities of wig shipping and inform potential business ventures.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Russia Tightens Ecommerce Tax Rules for Crossborder Sellers

Russia Tightens Ecommerce Tax Rules for Crossborder Sellers

Russia will implement new cross-border e-commerce tax regulations from July 2026. Orders under €200 will be exempt from customs duties. Orders exceeding this limit will be taxed at 5% with a minimum of €1 per kilogram. From 2027, e-commerce platforms will be responsible for collecting and remitting VAT, with the tax rate increasing annually. Sellers need to re-evaluate their product structure and pricing strategies, paying close attention to the crucial €200 threshold to remain competitive and compliant.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Superior Freight Forwarding Boosts Crossborder Ecommerce Efficiency

Superior Freight Forwarding Boosts Crossborder Ecommerce Efficiency

A premium freight forwarder is a strategic partner for cross-border e-commerce sellers, providing data-driven decision support, excellent customer service, new market access, customs and tax optimization, quality control, continuous innovation, trust and reputation building, and flexibility. They comprehensively help sellers improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and expand markets, ultimately achieving profitable growth. By offering these services, quality freight forwarders enable sellers to navigate the complexities of international trade and gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO IAPH Partner to Ease Maritime Delays Via Digital Ports

WCO IAPH Partner to Ease Maritime Delays Via Digital Ports

IAPH and WCO co-organized a workshop to accelerate digital transformation, enhance trade facilitation, and improve supply chain security by strengthening customs-port cooperation. They will develop international guidelines to promote data sharing, process optimization, and capacity building, jointly building an efficient, secure, and sustainable global trade ecosystem. The collaboration aims to streamline processes, reduce delays, and enhance transparency within the maritime trade sector. This initiative highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the evolving challenges of global trade and security.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade to Fully Digitalize by 2027 Under Ataistanbul Convention

Global Trade to Fully Digitalize by 2027 Under Ataistanbul Convention

The ATA/Istanbul Convention Conference is accelerating the digitalization of temporary admissions, aiming for full implementation by 2027. The e-ATA transformation has begun, with successful pilot programs in the UK and Switzerland, leading to smarter and more efficient trade. This shift promises streamlined processes and reduced paperwork, ultimately boosting international commerce by leveraging digital technologies for customs procedures related to ATA Carnets. The move towards e-ATA represents a significant step in modernizing and simplifying temporary import/export operations globally.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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France Hosts Border Management Symposium to Strengthen Alliances

France Hosts Border Management Symposium to Strengthen Alliances

A seminar on collaborative border management, hosted by French Customs in Bordeaux, explored new models for 21st-century border management. The conference focused on three key themes: reshaping the border concept, enhancing economic benefits, and building new collaborative models. It emphasized the importance of information sharing, risk management, and international cooperation, providing insights into the future direction of border management. The discussions highlighted the need for innovative approaches to address evolving challenges and opportunities in cross-border trade and security.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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