New Global Guidelines Clarify Customs Valuation of Franchise Fees

New Global Guidelines Clarify Customs Valuation of Franchise Fees

The World Customs Organization issued a new advisory opinion clarifying that franchise fees should not be included in the customs valuation of imported goods under specific circumstances. Originating from a Mexican case and confirmed by the Technical Committee on Customs Valuation, this opinion aims to reduce import costs for businesses and enhance customs valuation transparency. Companies should study the opinion, assess their franchise agreements, and communicate with customs authorities to ensure valuation compliance and capitalize on trade opportunities. This helps in correctly determining the dutiable value and avoiding potential penalties.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Seychelles Customs Officials Enhance Valuation Skills in WCO Training

Seychelles Customs Officials Enhance Valuation Skills in WCO Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a customs valuation training in Seychelles to enhance the practical skills of the country's customs officers. The training focused on the core principles of the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation, combining theoretical knowledge with practical exercises. This initiative is part of the WCO's capacity building project, aimed at assisting developing countries in improving customs administration, promoting trade facilitation, and increasing revenue collection. Accurate customs valuation is crucial for ensuring revenue integrity and maintaining fair trade practices.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Issues New Customs Valuation Guidance for Trade Compliance

WCO Issues New Customs Valuation Guidance for Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization is set to release new Explanatory Note 7.1, aiming to clarify the meaning of 'price actually paid or payable' and assist businesses in more accurately performing customs valuation. Companies should thoroughly understand the new regulations, optimize their valuation strategies, reduce trade costs, and improve compliance levels, thereby gaining a competitive edge in cross-border trade. This updated guidance is crucial for navigating the complexities of international trade and ensuring accurate declaration of goods.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chinas Toy Giant Hits 35B Valuation Targets Global Growth

Chinas Toy Giant Hits 35B Valuation Targets Global Growth

Bruko Toys successfully listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with a market value exceeding HKD 25 billion. Its rise is inseparable from the support of well-known IPs such as "Ultraman." However, over-reliance on IP licensing also brings potential risks. Meanwhile, China's trendy toy industry is ushering in "going global" opportunities. Cross-border sellers should understand market demands, accurately position themselves, and create products that fit consumer preferences to achieve sustainable development.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Rwanda Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Upgrade

Rwanda Boosts Trade with Wcobacked Customs Upgrade

The WCO held a customs valuation workshop in Rwanda to enhance the capabilities of tax authority officials. The workshop covered topics such as the WTO Valuation Agreement and transfer pricing. The initiative aims to promote trade development by improving understanding and application of customs valuation principles, ultimately facilitating smoother and more efficient trade processes for Rwanda.

01/08/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Customs Compliance on Royalties and License Fees

Guide to Customs Compliance on Royalties and License Fees

The World Customs Organization has released new advisory opinions focusing on key customs valuation issues such as royalties, license fees, and trademark usage. The opinions clarify that royalty income tax should be included in customs valuation, emphasize that valuation of goods with own trademarks requires case-by-case analysis, and explain the principles for handling mixed royalties. Businesses should thoroughly understand the regulations, meticulously record transaction information, and consult with professionals to ensure customs valuation compliance. This helps avoid potential penalties and ensures accurate import/export declarations.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Rules on Franchise Fees Complicate Import Pricing

Customs Rules on Franchise Fees Complicate Import Pricing

This article analyzes whether franchise fees should be included in the customs valuation of imported goods. According to the Customs Valuation Agreement, only fees related to the imported goods themselves should be included. Case studies suggest that if the imported goods do not inherently contain intellectual property, and the franchise fees primarily cover branding and operational systems, they should not be included in the customs valuation. Businesses need to conduct data analysis, clearly define the terms of the agreement, and seek professional advice to ensure accurate valuation and compliance.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chinese Brands Shein Pop Mart Gain Popularity in Paris Over Holidays

Chinese Brands Shein Pop Mart Gain Popularity in Paris Over Holidays

Chinese brands Shein and Pop Mart achieved significant success in the French Christmas season, revealing new opportunities for cross-border e-commerce. This analysis examines the success factors behind Shein's affordable fashion strategy and Pop Mart's trendy toy crossover marketing, emphasizing the importance of cost-effectiveness, contextualized marketing, social media communication, and strategic positioning in prime commercial areas. It provides valuable insights for Chinese cross-border e-commerce companies seeking to expand into overseas markets, highlighting key strategies for success in the competitive French market.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Air Cargo Industry Adopts Dual Risk Strategy Valuation and Insurance

Air Cargo Industry Adopts Dual Risk Strategy Valuation and Insurance

To mitigate risks associated with air cargo, shippers can adopt a dual-protection strategy: purchasing air transport insurance and declaring the value of the goods. Insurance transfers risk to the insurance company through compensation. Declared value carriage ensures the carrier assumes full liability for compensation based on the pre-declared value. This combination maximizes the shipper's protection and safeguards their interests against potential losses or damages during air transportation.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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