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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New Global Trade Rules Aim to Curb Plastic Pollution by 2028

New Global Trade Rules Aim to Curb Plastic Pollution by 2028

The HS 2028 version significantly enhances the identification of plastic products and materials by introducing new subheadings and a 'single-use' definition. This provides businesses with clearer classification standards, helping them accurately address plastic pollution challenges in global trade and facilitating the implementation of sustainable trade and circular economy policies. The updated HS Code allows for better tracking and management of plastic waste streams, supporting efforts to reduce environmental impact and promote responsible consumption and production patterns within international commerce.

02/05/2026 HS Code Query
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Bhutan Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Tariff Support

Bhutan Boosts Trade Efficiency with WCO Tariff Support

The WCO is assisting Bhutan in developing its advance ruling system and optimizing tariff classification, enhancing customs capacity, facilitating trade, increasing revenue, and improving the business environment. This initiative focuses on modernizing customs procedures and providing traders with certainty regarding tariff treatment before import or export. By implementing a robust advance ruling system, Bhutan aims to streamline trade processes, reduce disputes, and attract foreign investment. The project contributes to the overall modernization of Bhutanese customs and its alignment with international best practices.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Enhances Customs Training in Francophone Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Training in Francophone Africa

With EU funding, the WCO held a workshop in Burkina Faso to enhance the expertise of Customs administrations in French-speaking African countries, specifically in areas like commodity classification. The training aimed to improve customs efficiency and contribute to trade facilitation within the region. The workshop focused on practical skills and knowledge transfer to strengthen customs operations and promote smoother trade flows. This initiative underscores the WCO's commitment to supporting its members in Africa and fostering economic development through improved customs practices.

02/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Malawi Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

Malawi Enhances Trade with Wcobacked Advance Ruling System

In July 2018, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Blantyre to support Malawi in enhancing trade facilitation by implementing the advance ruling system and optimizing its customs classification system. Through expert training, current state analysis, and action plan development, Malawi aims to improve its legal framework, establish an advance ruling body, and strengthen personnel training. These efforts are designed to increase customs clearance efficiency, enhance trade certainty, and improve the business environment, ultimately promoting economic development in Malawi.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Aids Liberia in Boosting Customs Revenue

WCO Aids Liberia in Boosting Customs Revenue

At the request of the Liberia Revenue Authority, the World Customs Organization sent an expert mission to Liberia to strengthen its customs valuation and classification infrastructure. Through assessments, workshops, and recommendations, the mission assisted Liberia in implementing relevant World Trade Organization agreements and developing a strategy to terminate private sector inspection contracts. The goal was to enhance revenue collection, promote trade facilitation, and foster economic development within the country. The mission's work focused on building sustainable capacity and ensuring compliance with international standards.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New HS Code Streamlines Meat Imports Cuts Costs

New HS Code Streamlines Meat Imports Cuts Costs

This paper focuses on the tariff classification of HS code 0102390082 (bull), emphasizing the importance of accurate HS code classification for reducing tariff costs and optimizing the supply chain. Companies should deeply understand the HS code system, accurately describe product information, and consult professionals when necessary to ensure accurate classification, avoid risks, and enhance competitiveness. Accurate HS code classification is crucial for efficient import/export operations and overall supply chain management.

12/30/2025 HS Code Query
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Dangerous Goods Transportation and Classification: A Comprehensive Analysis of Hazardous Materials Standards

Dangerous Goods Transportation and Classification: A Comprehensive Analysis of Hazardous Materials Standards

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the transportation and classification of hazardous materials, introducing the naming and numbering standards for dangerous goods, including explosives, compressed gases, and flammable liquids. It emphasizes the application of these standards in transportation, storage, and production, as well as their importance in ensuring transportation safety, offering clear information and guidance for readers.

07/16/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Classification Study of HS Customs Commodity Code for Mosaic Used in Construction

Classification Study of HS Customs Commodity Code for Mosaic Used in Construction

This article explores the characteristics, application scenarios, material classifications, and customs code classifications of architectural mosaics. Architectural mosaics, with their diverse forms and functions, are widely used in the decoration of both residential and commercial spaces. By providing a detailed classification of their materials, the article offers comprehensive guidance on customs product coding to aid professionals in better understanding the key aspects of customs declaration work.

07/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Understanding Cargo Classification in Air Freight Tonne Goods and Tonne General Cargo

Understanding Cargo Classification in Air Freight Tonne Goods and Tonne General Cargo

This article provides a detailed analysis of the concepts of "weight on tons" and "flat weight" in the freight forwarding industry, specifically their application in air cargo transportation. By comparing weight calculation examples, it explains the definitions of light goods, heavy goods, and flat goods, as well as how to classify them under different transport modes. Understanding these terms is crucial for reasonable charging in cargo transportation.

07/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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