Dear Reader,

The “chain reaction” triggered by a regulation could be a good aspect to start with considering the latest legal developments. For example, who is affected by the new EU’s directive on sustainability due diligence? At first glance, only large companies. However, at a closer look, it becomes clear that the company’s entire supply chain will be affected, as suppliers, regardless of size, are required to disclose information about human rights and environmental compliance throughout their supply chain. Importers dealing with CBAM, already have the experience of related challenges. More requirements affecting more companies are to come soon.

How to manage compliance? ‘All eyes on AI-based technologies’ is no overstatement. Even if it is a buzzword, the power and potential of it is obvious: in an unusually hot summer, we benefit from an AI-based app that suggests a shady cycling route; at work, a generative AI assistant writes the code for a tool that simplifies customs compliance. "It saves me a lot of energy and time - I don't have to write the code from scratch, just check it" shares my colleague. This CCRM issue includes several articles related to tariff classification tools. We also invite you to read about the work being done in the EU to promote AI-related innovation and, at the same time, regulate the field taking into account potential risks.

‘But what could affect my work today?’ – we often hear this from practitioners. In each CCRM issue, we respond to this need. For example, some of the news may have an immediate impact on your day-to-day business (e. g. the introduction of tariff quotas or anti-dumping measures). Articles on court disputes between customs and companies are another invaluable source of practical information. Don't think they're boring! These are real-life stories that reveal the thinking of all parties involved, the pitfalls to watch out for and the mistakes of others to learn from. You will also benefit from the knowledge and views that the authors share in the articles on the latest news (e.g. the tariffs on Chinese BEVs) and developments (e.g. EU Customs Reform), and situations from their daily practice (e.g. Incoterms).

I believe that humans will not outsource thinking to AI, but will use it as an assistive technology. Given the increasing legal complexity, continuous learning is therefore the key to securing future-proof skills and competencies.

Enjoy reading this issue!

Enrika Naujoke
Member of the Editorial Board
CEO at CustomsClear

UK customs and trade news: July 2024