On May 28, 2025, a closed-session meeting took place in St. Petersburg, organized by WELLGO in partnership with the Audit and Consulting group BLCONS GROUP, which focused on current changes in customs regulation.
Key topics included the growing attention of customs authorities to companies’ business reputation, the transformation of customs control approaches, and the rethinking of the customs representative's role in today’s environment.
Experts from WELLGO and BLCONS GROUP provided a detailed analysis of how a company's image is formed in the eyes of regulatory bodies, emphasizing that good faith has shifted from being a recommendation to a mandatory requirement for successful international trade operations. The discussion addressed practical aspects of risk mitigation, including reliable customs representative selection criteria and effective models of cooperation.
Regarding the customs representative, the experts highlighted the evolution of this role—from a simple executor to a strategic partner, whose professionalism directly impacts the accuracy of customs declarations, proper goods classification, and risk reduction. This clearly has a huge impact on customer satisfaction.
Significantly, customs authorities are increasingly adopting tax authority practices, focusing on scrutinizing transaction histories, analyzing counterparties, and assessing the economic justification of operations.
Real-life case studies were discussed, illustrating the consequences of overlooking reputational risks and the importance of clearly defining responsibilities among all parties involved.
The key takeaway from the event: under the new conditions, successful customs clearance requires a comprehensive approach—maintaining an impeccable business reputation and building long-term partnerships with professional customs representatives.
If you have questions about product classification, customs expertise, or any other aspect of customs regulation, feel free to consult WELLGO’s customs department. We are always ready to help you navigate complex issues and find the optimal solution for your business.