From contractual liability in air cargo to customs procedures for e-commerce imports, 1 July 2026 marked the entry into force of two significant regulatory changes affecting shippers and other supply chain stakeholders.
The first concerns amendments to the IATA Direct Air Waybill (DAWB) framework. While intended to update the contractual documentation used throughout the air cargo industry, the changes have raised concerns over the review process, legal certainty and the allocation of contractual responsibilities and liabilities across the supply chain. Stakeholders have also expressed concern that different implementation approaches by individual airlines could increase legal and operational uncertainty.
The second development is the European Union’s introduction of a temporary EUR 3 customs duty on most imported goods valued at EUR 150 or less. Although the measure aims to combat customs fraud, strengthen consumer protection, and create a more level playing field for EU businesses, it also requires companies involved in cross-border e-commerce to adapt their customs procedures, tariff classification practices, IT systems, and contractual arrangements.
Although the two developments concern different areas of international trade, they share a common feature: both require businesses to assess the contractual, operational, and commercial implications of new regulatory requirements. For the DAWB amendments, this means reviewing contractual relationships, liability allocation, and insurance implications. For the new EU customs rules, companies should evaluate the impact on customs processes, product pricing, landed costs, and commercial agreements, while preparing for further reforms already planned for later this year and beyond.
Understanding these changes and their practical implications will help shippers and other supply chain participants manage legal, operational, and financial risks while maintaining efficient and resilient international supply chains.