WiseTech Global simplifies transition to Japan Customs AFR compliance

Leading supply chain software gives industry a head start as Japan implements new customs laws

As one of the world’s biggest logistics markets makes far-reaching changes to its customs laws, compliance has come easy for customers of WiseTech Global.

This March, Japan enacted mandatory advance filing rules (AFR), requiring all Japan-bound maritime cargo information to be electronically submitted before departure. Anticipating the wide-scale repercussions for vessel operators and NVOCCs serving the Japanese market, WiseTech Global worked to make the transition to the new regulations as seamless as possible for its customers. The logistics technology provider implemented new functionality in its single-platform supply chain software systems, ediEnterprise and the next-generation CargoWise One, as a response to Japan Customs AFR, enabling its customers to stay compliant without major disruptions to their business processes.

An information campaign preparing customers for the change culminated in a special education seminar held at WiseTech Global in conjunction with Nippon Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System (NACCS). Logistics providers were invited to the event, where the joint hosts advised customers on how best to adapt their businesses to comply with the new rules. The seminar was followed by a rare chance for customers to put questions directly to representatives of NACCS.

“One of the biggest challenges for logistics providers working on a global scale is compliance with the myriad of different customs laws across the world,” says WiseTech Global CEO and Founder, Richard White. “The complexities of global compliance should never be underestimated and it’s crucial that businesses with a global footprint, or those with ambitions of global expansion, have a system in place that allows them to comply with customs regulations the world over.

“New rules and regulations have a huge impact on how logistics providers do business. Complex compliance requirements cause massive disruption to processes, productivity and profitability if not properly automated—it’s vital for businesses in the supply chain to be able to move rapidly with changes in customs regulations wherever they do business globally. As part of our deep and long term commitment to solving the complexities of global compliance, and with the cooperation of NACCS, we’ve been able to give our customers a productive, functionally complete and integrated solution that enables compliance with Japan’s new customs laws so they can continue to focus on business, not borders.”

Media Contact: Lisa Tree, lisa.tree@wisetechglobal.com