JAS IN THE AMERICAS

We would like to remind our customers of the implementation of the Import Control System 2 (ICS2), the European Union’s enhanced pre-arrival safety and security program for cargo entering or transiting through EU Member States, as well as Norway, Switzerland, and Northern Ireland. Effective 1 September 2025, ICS2 became mandatory across all modes of transport—air, ocean, road, and rail. This regulation requires the submission of detailed shipment data via an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) prior to cargo arrival at the EU border.

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What You Need to Know ICS2 is designed to:

• Strengthen EU border security
• Enable early risk assessment
• Facilitate legitimate trade
• Prevent delays and penalties due to non-compliance

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Your Responsibilities as a Shipper or Cargo Owner

To ensure compliance and avoid disruptions, please take note of the following obligations:

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Data Submission Requirements

You must provide:

• A complete and accurate commercial description of each item
• A valid Harmonized System (HS) code, consisting of at least six digits—though in many cases, EU customs may require eight digits or the full tariff code.
• A valid Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number for the EU consignee/importer (and for other parties in the EU where applicable)
• Full details of all parties involved (seller, buyer, consignor, consignee)

Filing Responsibilities

• Freight Forwarders/NVOCCs: File ENS at the house bill level.
• Carriers: File ENS at the master bill level.
• Consignees: Provide valid EORI numbers to ensure accurate filing.

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Non-Compliance Risks Failure to comply with ICS2 requirements may lead to:

• Shipments being delayed, rejected, or held at EU borders
• Customs inspections and possible administrative penalties
• Additional costs related to storage or missed deliveries

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Recommended Actions to prepare for ICS2 compliance:

• Audit your product master data for HS codes and descriptions
• Standardize commercial invoices and packing lists
• Validate and integrate EORI numbers into your systems
• Establish clear communication protocols with your logistics partners
• Ensure complete shipment data is provided to your freight forwarder in time for ENS filing (e.g., at least 24 hours before vessel loading for ocean freight).

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Technology & Support

In response to the EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) requirements, we want to reassure our customers that our experienced staff and systems are fully prepared to manage the necessary data submissions and compliance procedures on your behalf. To support this service and ensure the smooth processing of your shipments, a compliance handling fee will apply. This fee covers the administrative effort and data validation to meet the latest EU regulations efficiently and accurately.

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We are also investing in digital tools and customs platforms to automate data validation and submission, reducing manual errors and ensuring timely compliance. If you have any questions or would like guidance on preparing your shipment data, please contact your JAS account representative.

JAS has been awarded a Silver Medal in the EcoVadis sustainability assessment, achieving a score of 75 points. This marks a 15-point improvement from last year’s Bronze rating and places JAS among the top 15% of companies assessed globally.

EcoVadis is one of the world’s most trusted providers of business sustainability ratings, evaluating over 130,000 companies across four categories: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement.

In the latest assessment, JAS received particularly strong recognition in the Environment category (91/100), reflecting our focus on decarbonization, responsible resource use, and advancing sustainable logistics solutions. JAS also recorded solid progress in Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement, showing how JAS is working to embed responsible practices across its global operations and supply chain.

Andrea Goeman, SVP Sustainability, JAS, commented:

“We are proud to see our progress recognized with the EcoVadis Silver Medal. This achievement reflects the collaboration across our global teams and our strong commitment to building a more sustainable future for our customers, partners, and communities. While this is an important milestone, we will continue to strengthen our practices to further improve our performance in the years ahead.”

With a score of 75 points, JAS now ranks in the 92nd percentile of all companies assessed by EcoVadis. This performance not only supports many of our customers’ supplier selection and evaluation processes, but also highlights the steady progress we are making year over year.

As JAS continues its sustainability journey, the company remains focused on driving measurable improvements across its operations and working closely with customers and partners to reduce environmental impact and achieve shared sustainability goals.

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Every year, Golden Week marks one of China’s most significant national holidays. In 2025, the holiday will run from October 1–8, and during this time, most factories, government offices, and many businesses will close or operate at reduced capacity. While this week-long celebration is important for millions in China, it can create challenges for global supply chains if businesses don’t plan ahead. 

What Is Golden Week? 

Golden Week celebrates China’s National Day and typically involves an extended public holiday for workers across the region. For the logistics industry, it means a temporary slowdown in manufacturing and transportation as employees take time off. 

How Does Golden Week Impact Supply Chains? 

The impact of Golden Week goes beyond the week itself. Here’s what companies can expect: 

• Production Delays: Many factories close or significantly reduce output. 
• Carrier Capacity Shortages: Air and ocean carriers often experience a surge in demand before and after the holiday. 
• Port Congestion: Terminals, warehouses, and trucking companies see backlogs as shipments pile up. 
• Longer Transit Times: Increased demand and limited capacity can affect schedules globally. 

How to Prepare for Golden Week 

Proactive planning is key to minimizing disruptions. Here are three practical steps: 

1. Book Shipments Early: Secure your transportation well in advance to avoid last-minute capacity issues. ‍
2. Communicate Forecasts Clearly: Share your supply chain forecasts with logistics partners to help align resources. ‍
3. Allow Extra Lead Time: Build flexibility into your timelines to accommodate potential delays. 

Don’t let Golden Week catch you off guard. Start planning today to keep your goods moving and your supply chain strong.