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The Customs Manager - Edition 8 - 2023 - Week 42: Customs & Global Trade Updates

Writer: Arne MielkenArne Mielken

Starting this week, we will no longer include export controls and sanctions updates in this update. However, we are excited to announce the launch of a new magazine called "The Export Controls & Sanctions Manager". This magazine will provide the latest updates on export controls and sanctions in the form of a blog entry every Tuesday morning at 6 a.m, delivered to your inbox, at no extra cost.


Our aim is to avoid overloading this update with specialized content, while still providing our readers who are interested in this topic with the attention and information these important topics deserve. We hope you find this change beneficial, and we welcome your feedback.


Period covered 15.10.2023-22.10.2023


Content

A

C

D

Duty-Free (and duty reliefs) Updates & Simplifications

E

F

N

O

S

T

V

W


Invitation to join "The Customs Manager LIVE!" - our weekly show On YouTube


Unlock all exclusive posts and make sure you stay fully up-to-date. Access Our NEW FAQ to answer all your questions: https://www.customsmanager.info/plans-pricing

 

Highlight Reads of the Week


EU-U.S. Summit: Trade Stalemate and Tariff Impasse

Discover the latest updates from the EU-U.S. Summit on trade, as the two powerhouses struggle to find common ground on tariffs and critical minerals.


 


Anti-Dumping Duty Updates

An anti-dumping duty is an extra import tariff imposed on top of the standard customs duty and applicable throughout a customs region. Its purpose is to enable countries to take action against the sale of goods at a price below their usual value, which is determined as the cost for similar goods sold in the exporter's domestic market. Check out our exclusive blog section on Anti-Dumping Duty for the most recent updates, informative articles, videos, and news. https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/_add


⇒ EU


EU: Latest ADD & CVD cases

Access the latest anti-dumping duty updates issued by the EU. Updated weekly. Date of latest update: 23.10.2023


⇒ UK


No update noted


 

Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Updates

Please also refer to our constantly updated collection of articles, guides on this topic etc:


No updates this week

Top Tip: Schedule a call with us to discuss how we can help you become or maintain AEO in the EU, UK, or US. www.customsmanager.org -> Book Expert Call
 

CBAM - The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism Updates


1) CBAM: Essential Documentation for Professionals

We have moved all the key documents to a separate page for ease of access. Promptly access the required documents for professionals in the field of CBAM, including:

  • CBAM - Our business guide

  • CBAM: Factsheets Per Product Group + Importers Checklist

  • CBAM: Transitional Period Law

  • CBAM: Support Guides, Templates, Fact Sheet, FAQs etc.

  • CBAM: Help Preparing Your First Report by 31 January 2024

  • CBAM: National Authorities Published


Top Tip: Next CBAM Training on 3 November 2023
Fri, 03 Nov | Virtual Training Event
Course: CBAM & Practical Implementation in Companies
This course develops the competencies that professionals need to deal with all aspects of CBAM - the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, including how to calculate carbon, apply for certificates, and how to set up CBAM conform procedures (Course ID: E-FA 11)
 

Classification Updates (Customs) - HS

When transporting goods across borders, it is crucial to determine the customs tariff positions accurately. This is a fundamental requirement for submitting a correct customs declaration. Applying an incorrect tariff number can result in increased import duties, not just for your company but also in terms of bans and restrictions, obtaining licences and permits, and compliance with reporting and documentation requirements. Do you and your team feel confident in classifying the tariff of your goods? Is your knowledge up-to-date? Our online collection can help accurately determine all customs tariff numbers. See all updates here: https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/customs-classification


1) Customs Classification: The Basics for Businesses

Unlock the secrets of customs classification and ensure your business thrives in global trade. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and delays.


⇒ UK


UK Trade Tariff. Various Updates

The UK Tariff is updated with various amendments. We take a closer look


⇒ US


U.S. HTS Customs Classification: CROSS Customs Rulings Online Search System

CROSS is a searchable database of CBP rulings on HTS Customs classification. Access the latest rulings here + a guide on how to use CROSS effectively. CROSS was last updated Oct 6, 2023, 7:45 PM with 1 rulings, bringing the total number of searchable rulings to 213191. The most recent ruling is dated Oct 3, 2023.


⇒ EU


1) EU: Repeal of classification decision on "rooibos tea"

A product made from the rooibos plant was previously classified under one code, but a new classification opinion has been approved for 'rooibos tea'. This new classification makes the previous one redundant. The regulation that classified rooibos under a different code has been repealed to ensure international uniformity in the interpretation and application of the Harmonized System.


2) Classification Decision

The EU has classified a product used as a resin in affinity chromatography.


3) Customs Classification: Highest Duty Rate for Smartwatches (GIR 3c)

Stay informed about potential regulatory changes affecting the customs classification of smartwatches in the EU. Learn about the use of GIR 3c and the resulting highest duty rate for smartwatches!


 

Customs Updates

You can find all of our customs updates here:


1) Switzerland: Abolition of industrial tariffs

Switzerland will abolish industrial tariffs starting from January 1, 2024. Details here.


2) EU Conflict Minerals Regulation: A Critical Evaluation

Discover the impact of the EU Conflict Minerals Regulation and its challenges in this insightful paper. Download now for a comprehensive analysis. https://www.customsmanager.info/post/the-eu-conflict-minerals-regulation-how-effective-download-the-new-paper


 

Customs Declarations (+ CDS) - Updates


UK: Customs Declarations Service (CDS): Check Out Latest Changes

No changes noted this week. Last date of update 23.10.2023. See details and links here


 

Court Cases & Law Updates

Please also refer to our constantly updated collection of articles, guides on this topic etc:


UK


No updates this week.


EU


EU: Court annuls the additional customs duties on certain U.S. lighters

Learn about the details of a court case and the judge's ruling


Judgment of the Court on Imports of aluminium flat-rolled products originating in China - Definitive anti-dumping duty - Action for annulment


U.S.


U.S: Newest Customs Decisions of CBP and U.S. Courts

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and U.S. Court of International Trade publish a weekly collection of judgements, rulings, rules, notifications, and abstracts about customs and related subjects. Access the latest edition Customs Bulletin Weekly, Vol. 57, October 4, 2023, No.36 - no update last week.https://www.customsmanager.info/post/us-customs-bulletin-weekly-decisions

 

Due Diligence


EU: Companies trading globally must respect human rights & environment (Due Dilligence)

In 2022, the European Union adopted a proposal called the Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence. This proposal aims to promote sustainable and responsible corporate behavior across the global value chains.


 

Duty-Free (and Duty Reliefs) & Simplifications


Customs warehouses: Keep Your Cash - Now and Forever - But how?

Customs warehousing is a cost-effective way to store foreign products in your country that are destined for another. How can a business benefit from it?


 

E-Customs Updates


1) EU: Step-by-Step Preparation Help for ICS 2 - Release 3: Our Briefing

More transport sectors are soon subject to EU safety and security standards under ICS 2 - Release 3. Get ready with our step-by-step guide and factsheet for download.


2) The EU ICS system: Debrief for businesses

Discover the EU ICS system, ICS 2, and its impact on businesses. Learn about the new customs pre-arrival security program and its benefits.


3) U.S: Cargo Systems Messaging Service

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP’s) Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS). is one of CBP’s methods for communicating to our trade partners news and updates on our automated systems – namely the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). Access the latest updates here.

 

Export Controls Updates

To make sure you never miss an export control update, bookmark https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/export-controls


Export controls are a set of laws, regulations, and policies that govern the exportation of goods, software, and technology. These controls are put in place by governments to restrict the transfer of sensitive items or information to other countries or entities that may use it for military or terrorist purposes. Export controls help to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, maintain national security, and support foreign policy objectives. They also help to ensure that businesses comply with the relevant laws and regulations, and avoid penalties or sanctions for violating them. Therefore, it is crucial for businesses to have a clear understanding of export controls and comply with them to avoid any legal or reputational risks.


For a comprehensive update on new rules, decisions, and laws from the US, EU, and UK from last week, keep an eye out for "The Export Control & Sanctions" Manager in your inbox at 6 am on Tuesday.


 

Free Trade Agreement Updates

For all updates regarding this topic, please view regularly and bookmark: https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/free-trade-agreement


1) UK CARIFORUM FTA: How to trade with Caribbean countries for zero duty

An EPA facilitates trade between the Caribbean countries and the UK. What is that and how do firms benefit?


2) EU-Japan FTA: Handbook for EU businesses importing from Japan

The EU-Japan FTA Importing Handbook is a must-read for professionals seeking to import from Japan or the EU free of duty. You can download it here.


3) CPTPP: Membership perks for British Exporters !?!

Will the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) truly benefit British exporters? What are the UK CPTPP membership perks? We explore.


4) CPTTP: Five Uncomfortable Truths that UK Businesses Should Know

While the UK government touts the benefits of CPTPP, it's essential to acknowledge the potential downsides as well.


5) CPTPP: What benefits for my Industry?

We look at the construction, life science, food & drink and manufacturing sectors and explore how they can benefit from CPTPP.


 

Northern Ireland Trade Updates

For all updates regarding the Northern Ireland Protocol and the Windsor Framework, please view and bookmark: https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/northern-ireland


No update this week

 

Novice ("Help" I am New to Customs & Global Trade") - the column for newbies

Welcome to the customs newbies section! Our goal is to provide you with bite-sized information and updates to encourage continuous learning and to spark your interest in customs and global trade. Join us and learn new things every day. Don't forget to check out our constantly updated collection of articles and guides on this topic.


2) Demystifying Rules of Origin: A Videocast Guide (Part 2)

In the first part of our three-part series on Rules of Origin, we will define what the rules of origin are and who they are applicable to.


1) Demystifying Rules of Origin: A Videocast Guide (Part 1)

In the first part of our three-part series on Rules of Origin, we will define what the rules of origin are and who they are applicable to.


 

Origin (Rules of)


1) The Ultimate Guide on how to meet the Rules of Origin

Find out the rules to establish the country of origin of imported and exported goods and to help identify goods that qualify for lower or no customs duty.


2) Demystifying Rules of Origin: A Videocast Guide (Part 2)

In the first part of our three-part series on Rules of Origin, we will define what the rules of origin are and who they are applicable to.


3) Demystifying Rules of Origin: A Videocast Guide (Part 1)

In the first part of our three-part series on Rules of Origin, we will define what the rules of origin are and who they are applicable to.


⇒ EU


EU-Vietnam Trade Agreement: How to trade freely!

Trading with the EU and Vietnam without duty offer great growth opportunities for many businesses but read the fine print, argues Arne Mielken of Customs Manager Ltd


⇒ UK


2) UK: Access the Rules of Origin of all UK Free Trade Agreements

To be eligible for tariff-free trade under the UK Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), it is imperative that businesses thoroughly review and understand the specific Rules of Origin for each FTA. You can find all the necessary Rules of Origin right here.


3) Unlocking the Benefits: CPTPP - Rules of Origin

In our new series covering the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership, CPTPP, we will break down all the relevant provisions of the Free Trade Agreement. Today, we will focus on Rules of Origin.


4) CPTPP - Rules of Origin - Legal Text

Find here the legal text on the Rules of Origin under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership, CPTPP


5) UK: Rules of Origin under the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement

We provide definitive answers to the 10 most crucial questions for importers/exporters on Rules of Origin, enabling seamless and duty-free trading under the UK-Vietnam FTA


 

Sanctions Updates


The European Union (EU), United Kingdom (UK), and United States (US) have implemented extensive sanctions laws. These rules provide processes for creating lists of individuals and businesses that are subject to asset freeze targets, financial and investment restrictions. In order to avoid accidental non-compliance, businesses must stay up-to-date with the latest sanctions rules. You can receive the latest sanctions updates every Tuesday by subscribing to "The Export Control & Sanctions Manager" newsletter, which will be delivered directly to your inbox at 6am.

Read the collection of all articles we have written on this topic here https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/sanctions


 

SME

Read the collection of all articles on this topic here https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/sme


No new Updates

 

Transit Updates

Read the collection of all articles on this topic here https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/transit


Change to the implementation date for NCTS5

The Common Transit Convention (CTC) authority has recently announced that the transition period for switching to the New Computerised Transit System Phase 5 (NCTS5) has been extended. This decision was made due to a number of countries requiring more time. As a result, HMRC has decided to push back the deadline for implementing NCTS5 in the UK. The new implementation date is set for 1 July 2024. Until then, it is recommended that you continue using the existing NCTS system. The HMRC Trader Test environment will remain open and will switch to the Transitional mode on 11 October 2023, as planned. If you are building software, you should continue developing and testing to align with the revised implementation date.

 

Valuation (Customs)

Read the collection of all articles on this topic here https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/valuation


Customs Valuation: What is that, and how Do I determine this?

Importers must declare the correct customs value of their imported products. But what is this "customs value" and how can you determine this? We explain.


 

Veterinary Border & SPS controls updates

Read the collection of all articles here: https://www.customsmanager.info/all-news/categories/food


1) COLLECTION OF LATEST ARTICLES EU, UK Veterinary Border & SPS Controls: Latest Updates

Stay updated on the latest Veterinary Border & SPS controls in the EU and UK. Find guides, documents, and resources for food & retail businesses. Date of last update: 16.10.2023


2) The Accredited Trusted Trader Scheme (ATTS) - What is it and why does it matter?

Discover the importance of the Accredited Trusted Trader Scheme (ATTS) and how it supports businesses importing medium-risk products into Great Britain.


3) UK Wine Reform: EU Labelling Changes Benefit Imports

Discover how the UK is breaking free from EU labelling requirements for wine imports. Learn about the new rules and their impact on the industry.


4) UK: Updated List of Businesses that can export food to the EU

Only approved GB businesses may export food products to the EU. Check the updated list: Is your business on it? Date of last update: 22.10.2023


 

World Customs Organisation Updates (WCO)



WCO: Council adopts three HS Changes. Your Customs Tariff will change!

Get ready for changes in your customs tariff! The WCO Council has adopted three HS changes that can impact your business. Download the detailed WCO documents. https://www.customsmanager.info/post/wco-council-adopts-three-hs-changes-your-tariff-will-change

 

What if I have a question regarding these updates


Please use the chat function on the website www.customsmanager.org to ask any questions you may have in relation to this update. Your dedicated team of Customs Managers will endeavour to respond in less than 24 hours.


 

Sources


EU

  • Official Journal of the EU

  • DG TAXUD Website

  • DG TRADE Website

  • Social Media (LinkedIn, Twitter, etc).

  • Information on the National Customs Website of Member States


U.S.

  • Customs & Border Protection (CBP)

  • Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)

  • Department of Commerce

  • Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC)

  • International Trade Administration

  • United Stated Internation Trade Commission

  • Social Media (LinkedIn, Twitter, etc).

  • Information on the National Customs Website of Member States


UK

  • Information on gov.uk

  • Information on legislation.gov.uk

  • Department of Business and Trade

  • HMRC

  • DEFRA

  • Social Media (LinkedIn, Twitter, etc).


Other

  • World Trade Organisation (WTO)

  • World Customs Organisation (WCO)

  • United Nations (Sanctions)

  • Social Media (LinkedIn, Twitter, etc).



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