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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VAT Zerorating Boosts International Aviation Connectivity

VAT Zerorating Boosts International Aviation Connectivity

The unique nature of international air transport clashes with traditional tax jurisdictions. This paper argues for the necessity of implementing a zero-rating VAT refund mechanism for international aviation. It emphasizes that this mechanism can reduce operational costs, promote international travel and trade, enhance competitiveness, and ensure fairness. ICAO resolutions provide guidance for governments to develop relevant policies, contributing to the construction of an interconnected global aviation network. This approach helps to streamline processes and foster a more efficient and equitable system for international air travel.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Upgrades Gender Equality Tool for Customs Agencies

WCO Upgrades Gender Equality Tool for Customs Agencies

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released an updated Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT) to assist member customs and tax administrations in assessing the integration of gender equality and diversity within their internal policies, practices, and external relations. The 2023 update focuses on security, action, and user experience. It includes a new security and safety chapter, strengthens action-oriented templates, and optimizes user experience design. This aims to promote gender equality within the customs domain and improve organizational performance through a more inclusive and equitable environment.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked DIAN Reform

Colombia Boosts Customs Efficiency with Wcobacked DIAN Reform

The WCO supported the Colombian National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) in its strategic planning efforts. Workshops were conducted to enhance the strategic development capabilities of DIAN officials. Technical assistance was provided in areas such as risk management and post-clearance audit. The aim was to improve the efficiency and transparency of Colombian customs, promote economic growth, and build a modern customs system. This initiative strengthens DIAN's capacity to effectively manage trade and contribute to Colombia's economic development by streamlining customs procedures and ensuring compliance.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Burundi Adopts Competencybased HRM System for Revenue Authority

Burundi Adopts Competencybased HRM System for Revenue Authority

With support from the World Customs Organization, the Burundi Revenue Authority is undergoing modernization through the development of a competency-based HRM system. This aims to improve operational efficiency, increase tax revenue, and enhance stakeholder relations. The workshop focused on empowering the HR department to build a competency model and develop an action plan. The WCO will continue to provide support to help the Burundi Revenue Authority achieve its modernization goals. This initiative highlights the importance of HR in driving organizational change and improving public service delivery.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chinese Influencers Lavish Baby Shower Stirs Online Debate

Chinese Influencers Lavish Baby Shower Stirs Online Debate

The extravagant full-moon banquet held by the internet celebrity couple "Guoyue" sparked controversy, exposing issues within the internet celebrity economy such as traffic monetization, flaunting wealth, and a lack of social responsibility. This event has prompted public reflection on the internet celebrity economic model, tax compliance, and industry regulation. It calls for internet celebrities to bear corresponding social responsibilities and earn public trust while pursuing commercial interests. The incident highlights the need for greater accountability and ethical considerations within the influencer marketing landscape.

12/31/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Guide to Expanding Ecommerce Sales on Amazon in Europe

Guide to Expanding Ecommerce Sales on Amazon in Europe

This article delves into four compelling reasons to enter the Amazon Europe market: a vast potential customer base, lower competitive pressure, thriving market growth, and convenient Amazon support. It also provides a practical cross-border logistics guide, covering market research, sales preparation, and tax compliance, to help you navigate the European market with ease and achieve business success. Learn how to prepare your business for the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the European e-commerce landscape and optimize your supply chain for efficient delivery.

12/30/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Polands Furniture Industry Adopts Green Policies Amid Euchina Trade Shifts

Polands Furniture Industry Adopts Green Policies Amid Euchina Trade Shifts

Poland is adjusting tariffs in its furniture industry to address new EU environmental regulations and domestic industry challenges. Through targeted tax reductions, export incentives, and process optimization, Poland aims to lower compliance costs for businesses, enhance product value, and deepen Sino-Polish trade cooperation. This initiative promotes the green transition and sustainable development of the furniture industry, ultimately achieving a win-win situation for businesses, consumers, and the environment. The adjustments are designed to help the industry adapt to changing market demands and ensure long-term competitiveness.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to DDP and DDU Incoterms in Global Shipping

Guide to DDP and DDU Incoterms in Global Shipping

This article delves into the core differences between DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) and DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) in international shipping. It provides a detailed comparison of these two Incoterms, highlighting variations in customs clearance responsibilities, tax and duty obligations, risk transfer, and operational complexity. The article offers guidance on choosing between DDP and DDU based on specific scenarios and emphasizes the importance of clear contract terms. This aims to help businesses mitigate risks and optimize costs in international trade by making informed decisions regarding delivery terms.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Streamlining Air Freight Customs for Crossborder Ecommerce

Streamlining Air Freight Customs for Crossborder Ecommerce

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the international air freight customs clearance process for cross-border e-commerce, covering key steps such as preparing customs declaration documents, declaration submission, customs review, inspection, tax payment, and release. It aims to help cross-border e-commerce sellers efficiently complete air freight customs clearance, avoid cargo delays, improve logistics efficiency, and successfully conduct international trade. The article focuses on streamlining the process and providing practical guidance for navigating the complexities of international air cargo regulations.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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