International tax and customs compliance is becoming increasingly complex. From incorrect tariff classifications to new EU regulations such as ViDA, CBAM and EUDR, businesses operating across borders face rising risk and administrative pressure.
In this expert video, Sonia Álvarez, Director of Tax at Ayming, explains how companies can ensure compliance, minimise exposure and implement a 360° international tax strategy.
International tax and customs compliance in a changing regulatory landscape
Businesses operating internationally are navigating a rapidly evolving tax and customs environment. Increased scrutiny, digital reporting obligations and environmental regulation are transforming how companies manage cross-border trade.
Errors are no longer minor administrative issues, they can lead to financial losses, penalties and operational disruption.
In this expert insight, Sonia Álvarez, Director of the Tax Department at Ayming, shares how companies can reduce risk, strengthen compliance and optimise their international tax strategy.
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The Hidden Risks in Customs and VAT
One of the most common — and costly — challenges businesses face is incorrect customs classification and misapplication of rules of origin.
These errors can result in:
- Overpayment or underpayment of customs duties
- Incorrect import VAT calculations
- Miscalculated excise duties
- Administrative penalties
- Revenue loss
As global trade expands and supply chains become more complex, the margin for error narrows.
A structured review of HS codes, origin rules and tariff treatment is essential to protect margins and avoid regulatory exposure.
Preparing for major EU reforms
The European regulatory landscape is undergoing significant change. Businesses must prepare for:
- Electronic invoicing requirements across the EU
- VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA)
- EU Customs Reform
- Environmental compliance obligations such as EUDR and CBAM
These reforms will directly impact invoicing processes, reporting systems, customs procedures and internal governance frameworks.
Proactive preparation is critical. Waiting until implementation deadlines approach increases risk, cost and disruption.
A Centralised, cross-border approach
Managing tax compliance across multiple jurisdictions can quickly become fragmented. Different rules, languages and reporting obligations create inefficiencies and inconsistencies.
A centralised model, with a single point of contact coordinating across jurisdictions — ensures:
- Consistent compliance
- Reduced administrative burden
- Clear communication with local tax authorities
- Coordinated international reporting
- Strategic oversight of tax risk
This approach enables businesses to move from reactive compliance to structured governance.
A 360° international tax strategy
International tax cannot be managed in silos.
An effective strategy integrates:
- VAT compliance
- Customs and tariff optimisation
- Excise duties
- Environmental taxes
- Corporate tax coordination
By aligning these areas under a unified framework, businesses can reduce risk while improving operational efficiency and cost control.
Looking ahead
Regulatory change will continue to accelerate, particularly in digital VAT reporting and environmental taxation.
Companies that anticipate change, review their internal processes and implement coordinated international strategies will be better positioned to remain compliant and competitive.
If your organisation operates across borders, now is the time to reassess your international tax framework.
