In recent years, with the vigorous development of global cross-border e-commerce, customs policies of various countries have been constantly adjusted to adapt to new trade needs. Recently, the new “double customs clearance” regulations issued by my country have triggered widespread discussion. This policy aims to optimize the customs clearance process and improve regulatory efficiency, but it also increases the compliance costs of some companies. So, is the new double customs clearance regulation an “accelerator” for cross-border trade, or is it likely to become a “stumbling block” for the development of the industry?
- What is the new double customs clearance regulation?
The new double customs clearance regulation refers to the fact that in the import and export links of cross-border e-commerce, goods must meet two sets of customs supervision requirements of the exporting country and the importing country at the same time, that is, the “export declaration + import declaration” dual process. This policy is mainly aimed at B2C (business to consumer) and B2B (business to business) cross-border e-commerce transactions, aiming to strengthen product traceability, tax supervision and intellectual property protection. - The positive impact of the new regulations: an “accelerator” for cross-border trade
Improve customs clearance efficiency and reduce cargo detention
The new regulations optimize the customs clearance process through electronic declaration and data interoperability. Qualified goods can enjoy convenient measures such as “advance declaration” and “green channel” to shorten customs clearance time.
Regulate market order and crack down on smuggling and counterfeiting
Dual supervision can more effectively track the source of goods, reduce the influx of “gray customs clearance” and counterfeit goods into the market, and enhance consumer trust.
Promote compliance development and benefit large enterprises
For cross-border enterprises with strong capital and mature supply chains, the new regulations will help establish a long-term and stable trade model and reduce the risks brought by policy uncertainty.
- Potential challenges: “stumbling blocks” for small and medium-sized enterprises?
Compliance costs increase, small and medium-sized enterprises are under great pressure
Dual declaration means that enterprises need to bear higher customs declaration fees, logistics costs and time costs, which may be a heavy burden for small and medium-sized sellers with limited funds.
The process is complicated and the operation threshold is increased
Some companies may delay or even return goods due to unfamiliarity with policies or lack of professional customs clearance teams, affecting operational efficiency.
Different policies in different countries increase uncertainty
If the customs policies of the importing country change frequently, companies need to constantly adjust their compliance strategies, which may affect long-term business planning.
IV. Industry response strategies
Use digital tools to optimize the declaration process
Companies can use cross-border e-commerce ERP systems, intelligent customs declaration platforms, etc. to improve data accuracy and reduce labor costs.
Strengthen cooperation with logistics service providers
Choosing cross-border logistics service providers with rich customs clearance experience can effectively reduce customs clearance obstacles.
Pay attention to policy trends and lay out compliance systems in advance
Companies should pay close attention to changes in customs policies of various countries and seek professional advice when necessary to avoid affecting business due to compliance issues.
V. Conclusion: Opportunities and challenges coexist
The introduction of the new double customs clearance regulations is essentially an inevitable trend in the standardized development of global cross-border e-commerce. For companies with a high degree of compliance and mature supply chains, the new regulations are an “accelerator” to enhance competitiveness; but for small and medium-sized sellers, they may face challenges such as rising costs in the short term. In the future, the industry may accelerate the reshuffle. Only companies that adapt to policy changes and strengthen compliance capabilities can win a larger market space under the new regulations.
The future of cross-border trade belongs to those pioneers who can seize opportunities and meet challenges.