Grit Köthe
Lawyer, Partner, Customs, Excise Duties & Foreign Trade Law
Customs, Excise Duties & Foreign Trade Law
Because foreign trade creates cross-border opportunities
International trade offers companies enormous opportunities - but also brings with it complex challenges in customs, special excise duties and foreign trade law. Companies must comply with both national and supranational European law and regulations to avoid high fines and legal consequences. Additionally, these regulations are subject to continuous change due to changing trade policy conditions. We support you in acting in a legally compliant manner, minimizing risks and successfully structuring your global business activities. With us, you can structure your international trade and customs processes in a legally compliant and efficient manner and react flexibly to regulatory changes.
Customs law
Export-oriented companies face numerous complex customs-related tasks on a daily basis - from correct customs declarations and the processing of imports and exports to the fulfilment of detailed documentation obligations, as well as statistical and security-related reporting obligations. The Union Customs Code (UCC) and its implementing regulations form the legal framework for customs law in the EU. In accordance with the Union Customs Code, goods can be placed under various customs procedures. We support you in the efficient management of customs procedures, process optimization to reduce import duties and the use of free trade agreements and customs exemptions.
Special excise duties
The handling of excisable goods in Germany and the EU is subject to complex legal requirements. Excise tax law is part of the general tax law and the extraction, manufacture, storage, transportation and commercial use of excisable goods such as electricity are under the supervision of the German customs administration. We support you in the preparation and submission of excise tax declarations and the development of excise tax optimization strategies. We also offer advice on restructuring and the realignment of trade flows.
Foreign trade law
Companies that operate internationally are facing increasingly complex challenges in the face of geopolitical changes. Due to the adaptation of national and international legislation, cross-border production and supply chains must be constantly reviewed and realigned. Export-oriented companies are obliged to comply with both the national requirements of the Foreign Trade and Payments Act and the Foreign Trade and Payments Ordinance, as well as the regulations of the EU. We support you with tailor-made strategic advice on export controls, sanctions and embargoes as well as in carrying out detailed compliance checks to identify potential violations at an early stage and develop defense strategies.
Political and economic developments worldwide lead to regular adjustments to US export control law, EU export regulations, and sanctions regimes. There is a particular focus on the extraterritorial effects of national foreign trade regulations, especially in the USA and China. Companies that operate across borders must adapt to these often complex and far-reaching regulations. With BDO at your side, you can react proactively to these changes and successfully minimize legal and economic risks.
Political and economic developments worldwide lead to regular adjustments to US export control law, EU export regulations, and sanctions regimes. There is a particular focus on the extraterritorial effects of national foreign trade regulations, especially in the USA and China. Companies that operate across borders must adapt to these often complex and far-reaching regulations. With BDO at your side, you can react proactively to these changes and successfully minimize legal and economic risks.
Because the right strategy determines success
Our expertise -
your success in international trade
The requirements for companies in the cross-border movement of goods are constantly increasing. Whether customs law, special excise duties or foreign trade law - the right strategy and professional advice are crucial to minimize risks and secure competitive advantages. We overcome borders with you and our global network, with which BDO is currently represented in 166 countries.
Our advice -
makes the difference for you
Indirect taxes such as import duties, including customs duties, import sales tax, excise duties on alcohol, tobacco, petroleum products and coffee as well as electricity and energy products, as well as anti-dumping and protective tariffs, are becoming increasingly important for national and international trade. At the same time, regulatory requirements are increasing. Our experienced experts will help you to master this complexity and at the same time organize your business processes efficiently.
Your advantage -
our interdisciplinary approach
Our consultants work closely with colleagues from the VAT department and our cooperation partner, BDO Legal Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH. This provides you with solutions that combine legal certainty, tax optimization and practical implementation. Together, we navigate you safely through the complex challenges of customs, excise and foreign trade law.
Our services - tailored to your needs
Together successful
Our aim is not only to overcome your challenges, but also to actively create added value for your company. We are at your side as a reliable partner and look forward to developing forward-looking solutions with you.
Your way to us
Contact us for a personal meeting or an individual quotation request - we look forward to hearing from you!
