In 2025, China resumed its position as Germany's largest trading partner. As bilateral economic ties deepen, the scale of German enterprises' import-export operations in China is steadily expanding. However, significant differences in criminal liability rules between China and Germany, particularly in customs, taxation, and export control regimes, have intensified compliance challenges. Over the past two years, China Customs has intensified criminal investigations, particularly on under-declaration of value, misdeclaration of HS codes, and unlicensed export of controlled items, this enforcement priorities have concentrated on key industrial sectors where German enterprises hold a competitive advantage such as mechanical equipment, electrical and electronic devices, automotive components and specialty chemicals. Companies that fail to conduct their operations in compliance with applicable laws and regulations may be subject to regulatory investigations and corresponding legal liabilities, including administrative penalties or other legal consequences. Against the backdrop of increasingly complex import and export activities, identifying the boundaries of criminal liability, strengthening compliance frameworks, and proactively mitigating legal risks have become critical to sustainable business operations.
In view of the above situation, we cooperate with Global Law Office and invite Hemin Zhou, a partner of the Global Customs and Trade Compliance Team, to provide an virtual exchange on " Criminal Legal Risks and Prevention in Import-Export Activities " for German Chamber of Commerce members. This virtual exchange will cover priorities and practice of customs criminal investigations in the past two years, with practical experience and case study, to summarize the lessons learned by enterprises and suggest corresponding practical compliances.
本次讨论会将重点探讨以下实务问题:
The Virtual Exchange will focus on:
近两年海关刑事调查执法动态 Law enforcement trends of customs criminal investigations in the past two years
近两年海关刑事调查重点罪名解析 Analysis of key criminal offenses in the past two years
海关刑事调查应对实务 Operational responses to customs criminal investigations
企业如何防范进出口活动中的海关刑事法律风险 Risk prevention in customs criminal legal matters
About the Virtual Exchange:
The German Chamber Virtual Exchange is our monthly event where members can freely connect and exchange insights on topics related to business in East China. This virtual event aims to provide a platform for sharing experiences, ideas, and best practices. Each month, we will explore a different theme or topic relevant to business in East China, with opportunities for networking and knowledge-sharing among our members in either English or Chinese. Let's come together to share our perspectives and build stronger connections within the German business community in East China!
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