Tariff Classification

In most countries, different tariff classifications carry a range of duty rates. Deciding on the proper classification of imported goods can make a significant difference to duty costs.

Reducing your exposure to customs duty directly improves your bottom line. Tanda’s clients benefit from our successful advocacy of changes to tariff classifications for specific products with the approval of customs authorities throughout the Asia-Pacific.

World Customs Organization Tariff System - Update 2007

Amendments to the Harmonised System (HS) Convention accepted by the World Customs Organization (WCO) in June 2004 came into force on 1 January this year. 

This is the third major revision of the HS Convention since it was approved by the Customs Co-operation Council (the WCO's predecessor) in 1983.  It includes 354 sets of amendments. The principal sources of the recent changes include: 

• Technological progress 
• Change in trade patterns 
• Clarification of texts to ensure uniform application 
• Adaptation of the Nomenclature to reflect trade practice
• Amendments related to social and environmental fields

Traders should review the tariff classification applying to their goods to ensure compliance with the amendments.