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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Eastwest Trade Container Rates Surge Amid Global Demand

Eastwest Trade Container Rates Surge Amid Global Demand

This paper analyzes the recent surge in container freight rates on East-West routes, exploring the driving factors from both demand-side (economic recovery, trade growth) and supply-side (capacity control, port congestion). It elucidates the impact of rising freight rates on import/export companies, consumers, shipping companies, and the global supply chain. Furthermore, based on historical data and industry analysis, the paper forecasts future freight rate trends, emphasizing the need for businesses to monitor market dynamics and prepare for freight rate volatility. Businesses should pay close attention to market changes.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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Chabahar Port Rivals Karachi As Key Afghan Trade Hub

Chabahar Port Rivals Karachi As Key Afghan Trade Hub

The Afghan Ministry of Industry and Commerce anticipates that Iran's Chabahar Port will potentially replace Pakistan's Karachi Port as Afghanistan's primary maritime outlet. Chabahar Port boasts a strategic location and offers a free trade zone for Afghan traders. The recent shipment of Indian-aided wheat from the port signals a new era for Afghan trade. This development highlights the growing importance of Chabahar Port in facilitating regional commerce and potentially reshaping the landscape of port competition in the region, offering Afghanistan a viable alternative for its import and export activities.

01/27/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Key Considerations for Importing Used Equipment

Key Considerations for Importing Used Equipment

When importing complete sets of mechanical equipment, it is essential to pay attention to tariffs and value-added tax rates, ensuring the accuracy of the declared price and customs codes. Additionally, consistency in nameplate information and compliance with inspection procedures is crucial. After assembly and debugging at the usage location, passing customs acceptance is required before production can commence.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Raises Heavy Truck Tariffs Sparks Industry Cost Worries

US Raises Heavy Truck Tariffs Sparks Industry Cost Worries

The US imposed a 25% tariff on imported heavy trucks, aiming to revitalize domestic manufacturing. However, this could lead to higher truck prices, increased transportation costs, and potential trade wars. The impact on the trucking industry and freight carriers is significant, requiring businesses to closely monitor policy changes and take countermeasures. The future direction of the policy remains uncertain. This action has far-reaching consequences for the entire supply chain and could ultimately affect consumer prices as well.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cbps New Regulations Reshape US Tariff Policies Imports

Cbps New Regulations Reshape US Tariff Policies Imports

On May 15, CBP updated the terms regarding reverse tariffs under IEEPA, stating that tariff eligibility is determined by the final loading date of the shipping vessel. Goods loaded after the deadline will no longer qualify for duty exemption or the 10% reverse tariff, increasing the burden on importers. This change necessitates that importers promptly adjust their declarations and strategies to address the challenges posed by the new policy.

05/20/2025 Customs Knowledge
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CBP Alerts Importers to New Tariff Rules on Transshipment

CBP Alerts Importers to New Tariff Rules on Transshipment

CBP's updated policy on mother port transshipment specifies that certain goods must be shipped by specific deadlines to qualify for in-transit exemptions and a 10% countervailing duty. This change may result in higher tariffs and retroactive fees for many importers, necessitating careful handling of related declarations.

05/20/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Importing Polyethylene Under HS Code 3901100001

Guide to Importing Polyethylene Under HS Code 3901100001

This article provides detailed information on polyethylene in primary forms (HS Code 3901100001), including product overview, tariff rates, declaration elements, and regulatory conditions. It aims to assist importers and exporters in easily grasping the market rules for this product, thereby improving trade efficiency.

08/05/2025 HS Code Query
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