Course Overview for International Trade and Customs
This 2-day intermediate training program provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices in international trade and customs. Through structured sessions, real-world case studies, and expert-led discussions, attendees will deepen their knowledge of trade agreements, compliance, customs, shipping, documentation, logistics planning, and risk management in global commerce.
Course Objectives
To equip professionals with the essential skills and knowledge needed to manage and optimize international trade and shipping operations efficiently and compliantly.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this training, participants will be able to:
- Navigate key trade agreements and Incoterms 2020 effectively.
- Manage trade documentation, customs and compliance processes.
- Evaluate and mitigate risks in international transactions.
- Plan and execute shipping strategies across various transport modes.
- Understand the role of technology and sustainability in global logistics.
Who Should Attend
- Trade & logistics professionals
- Export/import coordinators
- Freight forwarders and customs brokers
- Procurement and supply chain staff
- SME business owners expanding internationally
Course Content
Day 01: International Trade Fundamentals
| Time | Topic | Subtopics |
| 09:00–09:30 | Ice Breaker / Pre-Assessment | Introductions, expectations, group activity |
| 09:30–10:00 | Introduction to International Trade | Key concepts, trade theories, global trade overview |
| 10:00–10:30 | Trade Agreements & Organizations | WTO, Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), regional blocs |
| 10:30–10:45 | Break | |
| 10:45–11:15 | Incoterms 2020 Overview | Roles of buyer/seller, risk transfer, cost responsibilities |
| 11:15–11:45 | Export/Import Process Flow | Shipping, Documentation, key stakeholders, process stages |
| 11:45–12:15 | Trade Compliance and Regulations | Customs, sanctions, export controls |
| 12:15–13:15 | Lunch | |
| 13:15–13:45 | International Commercial Contracts | Contract types, essential clauses, dispute resolution |
| 13:45–14:15 | Letters of Credit & Payment Terms | LC types, open account, advance payment, risk mitigation |
| 14:15–14:45 | Country and Market Risk Analysis | Political, economic, legal, and currency risks |
| 14:45–15:00 | Break | |
| 15:00–15:30 | Harmonized System (HS) Codes | Classification, tariff implications, HS codes in practice |
| 15:30–16:00 | Duties, Taxes, and Tariffs | VAT, import duties, tariff barriers |
| 16:00–17:00 | “Incoterms Negotiation Game” | Activity |
| 17:00–17:30 | Wrap-Up & Q&A | Review, group questions, next day preview |
Day 02: International Shipping and Logistics
| Time | Topic | Subtopics |
| 09:00–09:30 | Recap of Day 01 | Key takeaways, clarification questions |
| 09:30–10:00 | Modes of Transport in Trade | Sea, air, land, multimodal, cost/time trade-offs |
| 10:00–10:30 | Freight Forwarding & Shipping Agents | Roles, selection criteria, documentation support |
| 10:30–10:45 | Break | |
| 10:45–11:15 | Shipping Documentation | B/L, AWB, CMR, commercial invoice, packing list |
| 11:15–11:45 | Containerization & Packaging | Container types, load planning, packaging standards |
| 11:45–12:15 | Port Operations & Customs Clearance | Port processes, cargo handling, clearance steps |
| 12:15–13:15 | Lunch | |
| 13:15–13:45 | Marine Insurance & Liability | Types, general average, liability coverage |
| 13:45–14:15 | Logistics Planning & Route Optimization | Tools, KPIs, cost-efficiency |
| 14:15–14:45 | Technology in Shipping | E-documents, tracking, digital platforms |
| 14:45–15:00 | Break | |
| 15:00–15:30 | Sustainability in Global Logistics | Green shipping, carbon footprint, ESG trends |
| 15:30–17:00 | “Trade Simulation Challenge” | Activity |
| 17:00–17:30 | Wrap-Up & Q&A / Post Assessment | Final review, feedback, certificates |
