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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Walmart Tops Fortune 500 As Logistics Firms Gain Momentum

Walmart Tops Fortune 500 As Logistics Firms Gain Momentum

The Fortune 500 list has been released, with Walmart topping the rankings again, followed by Amazon. Notably, several cross-border logistics companies, including UPS, FedEx, and C.H. Robinson, are also featured, highlighting the significance and growth potential of the cross-border logistics industry in global trade. These companies play a crucial role in connecting global markets by providing efficient logistics solutions. Their presence on the list underscores the increasing importance of seamless and reliable logistics in facilitating international commerce and supporting the global economy.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Crossborder Ecommerce Faces Customs Valuation Challenges

Crossborder Ecommerce Faces Customs Valuation Challenges

The World Customs Organization issued Advisory Opinion 23.1, clarifying that low-price transactions of flash sale goods can be used as a basis for customs valuation, provided they comply with the Valuation Agreement and the transaction is genuine and valid. This opinion guides cross-border e-commerce enterprises in compliant declaration, reduces trade risks, and provides customs authorities with scientific valuation methods, promoting the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce. It emphasizes adherence to existing valuation principles while acknowledging the unique characteristics of flash sales.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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EMCCA Customs College Overhauls Strategy with WCO Backing

EMCCA Customs College Overhauls Strategy with WCO Backing

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted the Inter-State School for Customs of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (ISSC-CEMAC) in reshaping its development strategy, aiming to modernize its training system through capacity building. The WCO's diagnostic assessment provided recommendations for ISSC improvements, and a new development strategy was jointly formulated to enhance the professional competence of regional customs officers and promote trade facilitation. The focus is on strengthening the ISSC's role as a key training hub for customs administrations in the CEMAC region.

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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Guide to Avoiding Trucking Dry Run Fees

Guide to Avoiding Trucking Dry Run Fees

This article delves into the issue of “deadhead fees” in trucking, detailing the reasons for their occurrence and their impact on international trade. It offers practical strategies for avoiding deadhead fees, including advance planning, accurate information provision, selection of reliable carriers, and real-time cargo tracking. Furthermore, it outlines how to properly handle deadhead fees, helping businesses effectively control logistics costs and enhance competitiveness. By understanding and mitigating deadhead fees, companies can optimize their supply chains and improve overall profitability within the freight transportation sector.

01/05/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Maldives Customs Modernizes Risk Management After WCO Report

Maldives Customs Modernizes Risk Management After WCO Report

The World Customs Organization (WCO) presented a diagnostic report to the Maldives Customs Service, highlighting areas for improvement in customs valuation, post-clearance audit, and risk management. The report recommended establishing a robust risk management system, optimizing valuation processes, and upgrading audit methodologies. The Commissioner General of Maldives Customs pledged to develop an action plan based on the recommendations to enhance customs efficiency and transparency, ultimately fostering economic development. This initiative aims to modernize customs operations and facilitate smoother trade flows for the Maldives.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Ivory Coast Improves Customs Classification with Eubacked Initiative

Ivory Coast Improves Customs Classification with Eubacked Initiative

Within the framework of the EU-funded PACIR project, the WCO held a national workshop in Côte d'Ivoire to enhance customs officers' capabilities in tariff classification. The workshop covered HS system explanations, tool support, and training module development. It aimed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of customs classification in Côte d'Ivoire, promote trade facilitation, and recommended the prompt implementation of the HS 2012 amendments. The initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures and contribute to the country's economic growth by ensuring accurate and consistent tariff application.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Burkina Faso Customs Implements Competency Framework to Modernize HR

Burkina Faso Customs Implements Competency Framework to Modernize HR

With the support of the WCO, Burkina Faso Customs has launched a competency framework and job directory to improve human resource management and organizational efficiency. This initiative serves as a valuable model for developing countries seeking to enhance their customs administration. The implementation of the competency framework aims to strengthen the skills and knowledge of customs officials, leading to improved performance and better service delivery. By focusing on capacity building and effective human resource practices, Burkina Faso Customs is contributing to economic growth and trade facilitation.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Ghana Customs Advances Modernization with WCOWACAM Project

Ghana Customs Advances Modernization with WCOWACAM Project

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assessed the impact of the WCO-WACAM project's support to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), revealing significant progress in stakeholder engagement, human resource management, and strategic management. The WCO will continue to deepen its cooperation with the GRA, assisting its modernization efforts and enhancing trade facilitation. This collaboration aims to contribute to Ghana's economic development by streamlining customs procedures and fostering a more efficient trading environment. The WCO remains committed to supporting the GRA in achieving its strategic goals.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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