Study Guide

2. E-Commerce

2.10. Adapting to new business models

The rapid evolution of e-commerce has required customs administrations to be flexible, innovative, and responsive to new business models. Customs authorities are increasingly adapting their processes, technologies, and partnerships to keep pace with the changing landscape. Examples include:

Approach	Examples
Digital tools and automation	• Adopting the use of AI and machine learning for risk profiling • Implementing blockchain and distributed ledger technologies in supply chains • Automating document verification and expanding self-service digital channels for traders • Using image analytics to support non-intrusive inspection (NII) systems
Risk-based compliance	• Focusing resources on high-risk shipments and high-risk sellers • Using advanced analytics for targeted inspections • Leveraging pre-arrival data to enable earlier intervention • Applying differentiated controls for trusted traders and platforms
Strategic partnerships	• Establishing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with e-commerce platforms, express carriers, postal operators, and fintech providers • Integrating systems with logistics providers and payment platforms to improve data quality • Participating in joint enforcement operations with domestic and international partners
Legal and regulatory updates	• Adjusting national customs laws to address low-value shipments, marketplace liability, and new fulfillment models • Mandating Electronic Advance Data (EAD) submission for all parcels • Updating rules on valuation, classification, and origin for e-commerce transactions • Introducing or tightening de minimis thresholds
Intelligence sharing	• Engaging with international organizations (e.g., WCO, Interpol, Europol, OECD) • Creating databases of repeat offenders, high-risk sellers, and risky commodities • Sharing intelligence with trusted private-sector partners to improve targeting • Participating in regional information-sharing networks to track illicit flows