An ICFF masterclass will examine how online retailers, importers, exporters and logistics providers can navigate customs requirements, reduce compliance risks and improve cross-border e-commerce operations
As cross-border e-commerce creates new opportunities for online retailers and logistics providers, managing customs requirements remains an important part of moving goods efficiently across borders.
The International Customs and Freight Forwarding Federation (ICFF) is offering a masterclass aimed at helping businesses understand the customs procedures involved in cross-border online trade, from the point an order is placed to clearance, delivery and potential returns.
The session will cover South African customs requirements, including registration, declarations, supporting documentation and the responsibilities of the different parties involved in the e-commerce supply chain.
Participants will also examine the fundamentals of customs compliance, including tariff classification, customs valuation, rules of origin, duties and import VAT. These requirements influence how shipments are declared and assessed when goods enter a country.
The programme will also consider the customs procedures businesses encounter when trading across Africa, including when preferential treatment under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) may apply.
Although the agreement aims to facilitate trade between participating African countries, businesses must still understand the applicable rules of origin and meet the relevant requirements to qualify for preferential tariff treatment.
Digital trade facilitation will form another part of the discussion, with attention given to advance electronic data, automation and coordinated border processes. These mechanisms can support more efficient processing when the necessary information is available to customs authorities and other stakeholders.
A practical case study will follow an online order through the various stages of the supply chain, including customs clearance, delivery and a possible return. This will allow participants to consider the compliance decisions involved at different points in the shipment’s journey.
The masterclass is intended for customs practitioners, freight forwarders, courier operators, online retailers, marketplace representatives and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to enter cross-border trade.
Its objective is to give participants a practical understanding of the compliance decisions that determine how an e-commerce shipment moves from checkout to delivery.
The masterclass will take place online on October 29, from 10am-11am. Participation is free for ICFF members and organisations belonging to its Professional Workforce Partner™ programme. Non-members will pay R350, excluding VAT.
Interested participants can reserve a place by contacting info@icff.co.za.