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One of the most exciting things to do for the 4th of July holiday is to see fireworks with family and friends! Did you know that 88% of fireworks in the United States are imported? It is considered a very specialized product with lots of regulations. CBP seizes tons of firework shipments annually that never make it past the US port of entry. So before getting into the business of importing fireworks consulting with a customs broker like JAS is important! Happy Independence Day!!
Insect Repellent is regulated by EPA and FDA for importations and classified in chapter 3808 of the HTS book. It can be imported as a cream, spray and other methods such as bracelets. Some repellents can be applied directly to the skin and other methods can be applied directly to the clothing.
Here are a few ways to reduce your exposure to mosquitoes this summer:
In recent years, gardening has blossomed into a global phenomenon, not merely as a pastime but as a vital component of sustainable living and environmental stewardship. As more people recognize the benefits of cultivating their own green spaces, the gardening industry has witnessed significant growth, reflecting in both domestic practices and international trade.
The United States, with its diverse climate and rich agricultural heritage, plays a pivotal role in the global gardening market. Examining import and export data reveals intriguing insights into the dynamics of this flourishing industry.
Imports:
The importation of gardening-related products reflects the diverse interests and needs of American gardeners. From exotic plants to specialized tools, the U.S. imports a wide array of goods to cater to the demands of enthusiasts.
Exports:
Conversely, the United States also contributes to the global gardening market through its exports, showcasing its expertise and innovation in horticulture.
The Green Economy:
The gardening trade exemplifies the growing importance of the green economy. Beyond economic transactions, it fosters environmental awareness, promotes sustainable practices, and fosters community engagement.
As the world grapples with environmental challenges, gardening emerges as a grassroots solution, empowering individuals to connect with nature and cultivate greener, healthier lifestyles.
Did you know that the Super Bowl featured players from 33 different states and five countries? Click HERE to review the Census data and demographics to see if anyone from your hometown was in the game! Congratulations to the Kansas City Chiefs!
Cheese trays can be nice holidays gifts! Did you bring any back with you from your holiday travels? If you did, did TSA inspect your bag? They probably did!!! Did you know that cheese can look just like a bomb when it is passed through the TSA Xray screens? “A block of cheese could be indistinguishable from C4. There is no difference on the screen. Meats too. All organic products look orange on the display and look like explosives.” Reported a TSA agent. C4 is a common variety of a plastic explosive that could be harmful in an explosion
Ready to relax at the pool? Do you have a life jacket? Don't leave the country with it!
Life jackets are meant to save lives, but did you know that according to the EAR, life jackets are potentially dangerous objects that can't be taken outside of the U.S. without an export license!
Do you have an item that may require an export license? Export license applications and commodity classification requests can be submitted online through a system known as SNAP-R.
The Bureau of Industry & Security has also made new updates to the system May 2018!
Did you know ……September is the only month with the same number of letters in its name as the number of the month: it is the NINTH month and has NINE letters!
Additionally, the first day of fall is in September. As the weather cools down, it is the perfect time to indulge in some of the most popular fall flavored coffee, tea, and spices! Coffee, tea, and spices are classified in chapter NINE of the Schedule B and HTS Tariff book!!!!
Did you know ……Watermelons are not a fruit but a vegetable? They belong to the cucumber family of vegetables and is one of the summer’s best treats!
The United States is the 3rd largest exporter of watermelon by dollar value. For exporting purposes, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule for watermelon is found in chapter 08 of the HTS.
Did you know ……The first women’s swimsuit was created in the 1800’s. It came with a pair of bloomers.
For customs purposes, if swimsuits are imported with an accompanying swimsuit cover that matches the swimsuit in design, the two items cannot be imported as a set and must be imported as two separate items for classification purposes.
Do you know which foods are exempt from the FSVP (Final Rule on Foreign Supplier Verification Program)?
May 27, 2017 the Food & Drug Administration will begin implementation of the Foreign Supplier Verification Program also known as FSVP. There are several foods that are exempt which are as follows:
Food Safety Modernization Act Wizard is a FREE compliance tool!
Did you know that there is a free, online tool designed by Registrar Corp to assist companies in assessing their U.S. FDA compliance issues, possible requirements and deadlines under five Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Rules:
Red Flag Indicators for an Export Transaction. There are certain actions that could be an indicator that further investigation may be required prior to proceeding with an export transaction. If you notice any of these actions, it could be a red flag!
Please be sure to check out the detailed list of red flag indicators to an export transaction on our flyer!
How well do you understand routed export transactions?
Routed export transactions are a much discussed topic. Therefore, the U.S. Census Bureau has revisited this topic and have provided helpful tips on remaining compliant if you’re involved in a routed export transaction.
To review the helpful tips on routed export transactions click the button below.
Are you a compliant traveler?
Things NOT to Do on an Airplane
As we approach the holiday season, the goal is to not only be safe but to also be as pleasant as possible.
However, sometimes we get in our own way!
JAS Compliance would like to give you a few helpful tips on what not to do if you are on an airplane and make your travel easier.
Happy Holidays and Safe Travels to you this Holiday Season!
2.5% or free of duty? It can represent a large sum if the value is high and or the volume of entries is strong. But picking harmonized tariff codes based on duty rates is not only incorrect, it is against the laws that govern trade. The HTSUS (harmonized tariff schedule of the United States) is not a guide, it is a legal document backed with “teeth.” Failing to effectively classify commodities can lead to CF28’s (requests for information), CF29’s (notices of action often increasing the duty liabilities to the importer), focused assessments and audits. All of these are efficiency killers in today’s modern fast paced supply chain environment.
CF28’s take time and resources to provide appropriate answers to CBP. CF29’s take time and resources to review, rebut and sometimes to apply subsequent payments to an entry that may already be completed and closed in the books. Focused assessments and audits are a whole new level of resource taxing for an importer compared to CF28’s and 29’s.
So what can importers do?
First of all, importers should begin classifying according to the General Rules of Interpretation codified in the HTSUS. These rules provide the framework to follow a process to obtain correct HTS codes.
Second, importers should assess they database of commodities and determine items which need to be re-assessed.
Finally, an assessment of CF28’s and CF29’s should be examined. How many have been received in the past 12 months? How many have been answered? What items were affected by the requests? Have those items been updated inside the internal databases of the importer?
JAS Forwarding USA Inc. Compliance Team is experienced in all of these questions. We have solved these problems and can help. Contact us today and we will assist to analyze risk in this arena as well as others!
Anti-dumping and countervailing duties are assessed in an honest attempt to help level the playing field for US manufacturers. This is an important function and CBP is committed to aggressive action to protect the interests of US industry. Anti-dumping and countervailing duties do have effectiveness and as a result CBP has seen an increase in evasion tactics in some areas of the trade community. Evasion tactics have included fraudulent country of origin and shipping documentation etc. This behavior by some in the trade community is rather costly to the country. Keep in mind that ADD/CVD exists to encourage buyers to source items subject to these duties from US sources or sources that are using free market pricing strategies. The August 2016 Government Accountability Report notes that in the past 15 years, $2.3 billion were not collected in ADD/CVD. That is an average of $150+ million per year! That is also a bunch of US manufacturers being harmed by these questionable evasive practices.
New regulations empower competing importers and federal agencies to call importers out for suspicion of evasive practices with regards to ADD/CVD. Now is a good time for importers to engage in self-assessment and determine what risk(s) there may be. Internal audits and continuous improvement of internal compliance processes is a mitigating factor when CBP considers penalties for importers.
Do you have self-audits regularly scheduled? Do you have extensive experience investigating applicability of ADD/CVD? We at JAS USA Inc. Compliance team have tackled these issues over and over again. We pride ourselves in being educators and showing our valuable clients the right way to handle the sometimes uncomfortable positions these types of issues can create. We are experts at building customized compliance plans, manuals and auditing schedules. Contact us today and we will be glad to help you mitigate risk!
TSA (Transportation Security Administration) plays a critical role in protecting the US transportation systems with the goal of ensuring freedom of movement for people and commerce (TSA Mission Statement). All of us as members of the trade community have a role in this effort.
JAS Forwarding USA Inc. Compliance team strives to foster exceptional cooperation and partnering with government agencies involved in our daily business activities. TSA is one of those key agencies!
JAS Forwarding USA Inc.’s commitment is displayed by participating in specific operational training at TSA’s request.
JAS is honored to support TSA in its newest See Something Say Something Campaign. Homeland Security is in the process of rolling out a pilot program for K9s, and are using trade community facilities as a setting for this training. K9s are one of the many integral layers of screening employed by TSA to ensure that our transportation networks are kept safe from threats. Both our JAS Forwarding USA Inc. Charleston, SC and Atlanta, GA locations have been used for this endeavor. These branch locations exemplify our policy of cooperation and informed compliance. All of our staff in our branch locations strategically placed around the USA are well trained and corporately supported in TSA regulations.
Questions? Contact us today and let’s see how we can manage risk together!
What is the difference between Schedule B Codes (for exports) and Harmonized Tariff Schedule (for imports)?
All of the imports and export codes used by the United States are based on the Harmonized Tariff System (HTS). The HTS assigns 6-digit codes for general categories. Countries which use the HTS are allowed to define commodities at a more detailed level than 6-digits, but all definitions must be within that 6-digit framework. The U.S. defines products using 10-digit HTS codes. Exports codes (which the U.S. calls Schedule B) are administered by the U.S. Census Bureau. Import codes are administered by the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC).
Did you know that per 15 CFR 758.6, a destination control statement is required on the invoice, bill(s) of lading or other export control documents accompanying shipments from US origin? This is required for all exports of items on the Commerce Control List that are NOT classified as EAR99, unless the export can be made under a license exception (BAG-baggage or GFT- Gifts as defined in part 740 of the EAR).
Currently, the statement must say at a minimum: “These commodities, technology or software were exported from the United States in accordance with the Export Administration Regulations. Diversions contrary to U.S. law is prohibited” (15 CFR 758.6).
These regulations have been revised and the requirement will change. The new changes to 15 CFR 758.6 will be effective on November 15, 2016. According the Federal Register published on August 17, 2016, the final rule implements changes which were proposed on May 22, 2015. The stated goal of these revisions is “Harmonization of the Destination Control Statements.” Per the summary of the Federal Register entry, “This final rule revises the destination control statement in 758.6 of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to harmonize the statement required for the export of items subject to the EAR with the destination control statement in 22 CFR 123.9(b)(1) of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations" (ITAR).
The revised regulation clearly states “The exporter must incorporate the following information as an integral part of the commercial invoice whenever items on the Commerce Control List are shipped (i.e., exported in tangible form), unless the shipment (i.e., the tangible export) may be made under License Exception BAG or GFT (see part 740 of the EAR) or the item is designated as EAR99.” Yes it is similar to what we have already discussed in the opening paragraph. However, note the language is specifying that the “exporter” must action this requirement.
The new statement as defined in revised 15 CFR 758.6 effective November 15, 2016 is: “These items are controlled by the U.S. Government and authorized for export only to the country of ultimate destination for use by the ultimate consignee or end-user(s) herein identified. They may not be resold, transferred, or otherwise disposed of, to any other country or to any person other than the authorized ultimate consignee or end-user(s), either in their original form or after being incorporated into other items, without first obtaining approval from the U.S. government or as otherwise authorized by U.S. law and regulations.”
Are you ready to meet this requirement? JAS Forwarding USA Inc. Compliance Team is working to ensure that our bill of lading’s language has been adjusted to comply with these revised regulations. We can help you too. Contact us today and let’s work on some risk management together!
JAS Forwarding USA Inc. was excited to host all of our USA Customs Brokerage Managers at our Atlanta, GA Corporate Campus last week. For two days, key licensed brokers from JAS Forwarding USA branch locations sat in a room together with our Corporate Compliance team and discussed current topics in the industry. This was an exciting time of interactive learning. Our group was eager to discuss and learn from each other on some very timely topics such as antidumping/countervailing duties, auditing strategies, training entry writers, reporting and many other topics our clients are facing.
The risks in the import sector continue to increase and Customs is ramping up information requests, actions, and enforcement. Education is an important part of compliance with US Customs regulations protecting the interests of the United States and ultimately our clients. JAS Forwarding USA Inc. Compliance Team is an advocate for continued education opportunities and is committed to assisting our internal team members in achieving excellence.
Did you know that JAS Forwarding USA Inc. Compliance Team can do external training too? We are prepared and equipped to educate our clients and assist in training to ensure excellence in compliance and risk management. Want to know more? Contact us and let’s learn together.
To many people, BIS sounds like many other government acronyms. BIS stands for Bureau of Industry and Security. The mandate of BIS is extremely important and worth taking a closer look at.
The BIS mission statement is to “Advance U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives by ensuring an effective export control and treaty compliance system and promoting continued U.S. strategic technology leadership.” That is quite a mission! Think of each of the key words in this mission statement and realize the impact this mandate has.
Exporting certain items from the U.S. to certain places in the world may present a national security risk. Items used for weapon production can be turned around and used against the U.S. both domestically and abroad. These concerns drive the creation and updating of the Entity Lists. It is worth re-iterating that the entity list exists because the BIS and other U.S. Government agencies have found cause to believe that somehow, those on the list may be a risk or related to something that poses a threat to our national security.
It is also important to note that just because a person/group/organization is on the entity list, it doesn’t necessarily prohibit trade with them. However, it does raise the flag and compel the trade professional to ensure that due diligence is exercised in vetting the person/group/organization and determining what regulatory steps should be taken and appropriate authorization obtained in order to legally proceed to trade with those on the entity list.
While things are constantly changing these days it is imperative that we remain vigilant and attuned to all the changes going on around the world. BIS is a key U.S. Government Agency charged with being an integral instrument of protecting the United States. The JAS USA Inc. Compliance Team understands the BIS mandate and are always willing to assist. Contact us and we will help!
Is there a difference between the Incoterms DDU and DAP?
DAP is the short form for “Delivered at Place” that was introduced in 2010. It is a term of agreement between a buyer and a seller much like DDU. DDU was removed from Incoterms 2010 and replaced with DAP; however, many traders continue to use DDU in their business documents. As a result, if traders use the terms in their business documents it is mandatory to mention “as per Incoterms 2000.” Otherwise, DAP terms are applicable.
The last 30 days have brought many updates to Section 301 duties, exclusions and more. The action all started on May 14, 2024, when the USTR announced that further action would be taken against China’s unfair technology transfer policies and practices. It was announced that key products would be subject to new rates over the next two years.
May 22, 2024, there was a follow up to the May 14 announcement which further defined that 382 HTSUS subheadings and 5 statistical reporting numbers of the HTSUS are the specific products that will have the increases in 2024, 2025 and 2026. This notice also noted that an exclusion process is being established for machinery used in domestic manufacturing and under certain subheadings under chapters 84 and 85 of the HTSUS. Finally, this notice proposes 19 temporary exclusions for solar manufacturing equipment.
Finally, on May 24, 2024, the USTR published details about the disposition of the existing Section 301 exclusions 9903.88.67 and 9903.88.68 which have been scheduled to expire on May 31, 2024. In summary, all exclusions under 9903.88.67 and 9903.88.68 have been extended to July 14, 2024. On July 15, 2024, a new exclusion will be effective. The new exclusion, under 9903.88.69 will cover 87 of the original 352 exclusions under 9903.88.67.
For more details, check out our 3 Client advisories released during May linked below.
CBP publishes numerous Informed Compliance Publications. These documents can be extremely useful in answering detailed questions about the application of CBP rules/laws on a wide range of topics. Some of the topics covered include Valuation, classification of sets, classification of specific product types, drawback, reasonable care, recordkeeping, rules of origin and the list goes on. These documents are publicly available and can be viewed online or downloaded. To check them out, follow the link below!
The U.S. Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has updated the process for excluding certain steel and aluminum imports from tariffs, effective July 1, 2024. This revision removes twelve General Approved Exclusions (GAEs), aiming to strengthen domestic steel and aluminum production and reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing. The changes follow public feedback and are intended to ensure fairness and transparency in the exclusions process while upholding national security interests. BIS has been overseeing this process since tariffs were imposed in 2018, and these adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to refine controls and support U.S. industrial base.
In December, 2023, FDA issued guidance for Industry regarding the registration and listing of Cosmetic Product Facilities and Products. The publication lists product categories and provides a Q&A section with answers to specific cosmetic product questions. The deadline is July 1, 2024. For more info and links, check out our most recent client advisory linked below:
Insect Repellent is regulated by EPA and FDA for importations and classified in chapter 3808 of the HTS book. It can be imported as a cream, spray and other methods such as bracelets. Some repellents can be applied directly to the skin and other methods can be applied directly to the clothing.
Here are a few ways to reduce your exposure to mosquitoes this summer:
A multinational organization based in Bangkok, Thailand, has agreed to pay $20,000,000 to settle potential civil liability for 467 apparent violations of OFAC sanctions on Iran. Between 2017 and 2018, the company facilitated $291 million in wire transfers through U.S. financial institutions for the sale of Iranian-origin high-density polyethylene resin (HDPE), manufactured by a joint venture involving the parent company in Iran. HDPE is a robust resin used in various plastic products such as food and beverage containers, shampoo bottles, and industrial items. Concurrently, the company initiated U.S. dollar wire transfer transactions to settle the joint venture’s debts to third-party vendors.
BIS has released the newest iteration of their guidance on export enforcement. The “Don’t Let This Happen to You” guidance document is dated March 2024 and is 76 pages of important guidance for the export community. The opening letter states “Export controls have never been more important to our collective security interests than they are today.” Follow the link below to check out more details!
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a Withhold Release Order (WRO) against work gloves manufactured in a Chinese company and its subsidiaries, based on evidence suggesting the use of convict labor. This action is part of the U.S. government's efforts to combat forced labor globally. With nearly 28 million workers suffering under such conditions worldwide, WROs are a means to deter companies from exploiting labor and to protect vulnerable populations. By enforcing laws prohibiting the importation of goods produced by forced labor, CBP aims to safeguard American workers, businesses, and consumers. Currently overseeing and enforcing numerous WROs and Findings, CBP emphasizes its commitment to eliminating forced labor from U.S. supply chains and encourages reporting of suspected violations.
JAS Forwarding (USA) Inc. VP Compliance Laurie Arnold (Secretary NCBFAA) and Leah Ellis, Compliance Manager (NCBFAA Legislative Chair) attended the NCBFAA annual conference in Ft Lauderdale in April.
The National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) headquartered in Washington, DC metro area, represents many companies in international trade, including the nations’ leading freight forwarders, customs brokers, ocean transportation intermediaries (OTIs), NVOCCs and air cargo agents. NCBFAA is at the forefront of trade related topics in Washington DC and around the United States. The NCBFAA members handle 97% of the entries for goods imported into the United States. Further, members operating as OTIs are involved with approximately 80-85% of all exports from the United States.
Laurie Arnold has served as the Treasurer for the NCBFAA and was recently elected as the new Secretary of the NCBFAA. Seen on the far left in this photo, Laurie is contributing on a panel discussing “Liquidated damages, penalties, and other CBP fan mail.” Also on the panel was US Customs FP&F Director Lisa Santana Fox. She discussed the new Customs portal for mitigation request submissions. Laurie helped facilitate constructive discussion with the membership on the process and timelines of mitigation requests.
Leah Ellis serves as the NCBFAA Legislative Committee Chair. In this capacity, Leah works closely with the legislative committee advisor for the NCBFAA. The NCBFAA Legislative Committee works with legislators in Washington to advance positions of the trade community. Seen on the left in this photo, Leah was discussing Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) bill HR4986 and the end China de minimis bill HR7979. The panel also discussed and answered questions pertaining to the passing and signing of the Customs Business Fairness Act.
JAS Forwarding (USA) Inc.’s Compliance Project Manager, Scott Cassell, spent some time in Texas in the month of April facilitating Incoterms training on behalf of clients. Scott was also invited to speak at the ATX Trade Compliance Round Table Luncheon in Austin, TX. The event was attended by numerous trade professionals from Austin and the surrounding area.
Pictured in the photo from left toright are Scott Cassell, Antonio Pastrana (JASBM-Laredo), Lindsay Gambee (JASRegional Sales Dir SW), Helga Acosta (JAS BDM-HGC), Ernest Osei (JASBM-Dallas), and Curtis Corley (JAS BDM-DAL).
In recent years, gardening has blossomed into a global phenomenon, not merely as a pastime but as a vital component of sustainable living and environmental stewardship. As more people recognize the benefits of cultivating their own green spaces, the gardening industry has witnessed significant growth, reflecting in both domestic practices and international trade.
The United States, with its diverse climate and rich agricultural heritage, plays a pivotal role in the global gardening market. Examining import and export data reveals intriguing insights into the dynamics of this flourishing industry.
Imports:
The importation of gardening-related products reflects the diverse interests and needs of American gardeners. From exotic plants to specialized tools, the U.S. imports a wide array of goods to cater to the demands of enthusiasts.
Exports:
Conversely, the United States also contributes to the global gardening market through its exports, showcasing its expertise and innovation in horticulture.
The Green Economy:
The gardening trade exemplifies the growing importance of the green economy. Beyond economic transactions, it fosters environmental awareness, promotes sustainable practices, and fosters community engagement.
As the world grapples with environmental challenges, gardening emerges as a grassroots solution, empowering individuals to connect with nature and cultivate greener, healthier lifestyles.
JAS Forwarding (USA) Inc.’s VP Compliance, Laurie Arnold and Compliance Operations Manager and NCBFAA Legislative Committee Chair, Leah Ellis, has diligently championed to help pass the Customs Business Fairness Act (CBFA) for many years alongside the National Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). In a significant victory for Customs Brokers the bill was included in a continuing resolution bill that passed both the House and Senate. The CBFA has finally come to fruition. “The CBFA bill has been a long-standing passion of mine to help prevent Customs Brokers from having to return customs duties when an importer has filed bankruptcy and at long last (20 years) this bill has passed and signed into law and I am very happy to have been a part of the march to protect the Customs Brokers of our industry,” said Laurie Arnold when asked for her reaction on the passing of CBFA.
The CBFA, a long-standing initiative of the NCBFAA, aims to protect customs brokers and their employees by advocating for changes in bankruptcy laws. The bill seeks to grant "subrogation" rights to customs brokers, allowing them to assume the priority rights of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) when importers file for bankruptcy. This would prevent payments made to CBP through customs brokers from being subject to preference payment recovery actions during the 90-day period preceding the importer's bankruptcy filing.
NCBFAA President Jose D. (JD) Gonzalez lauded the passage of CBFA, emphasizing its importance to the customs broker industry. He credited the dedicated efforts of the association's Legislative Committee leadership, Legislative Advisor Nicole Bivens Collinson, and member companies for lobbying lawmakers and pushing for the bill's passage.
Special recognition was extended to Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) for his role in championing CBFA in the House of Representatives. Garbarino reintroduced the bill at the association's request in 2023, garnering bipartisan support with 28 co-sponsors. NCBFAA expressed gratitude to its members for their engagement in advocacy efforts, including letter-writing campaigns urging Representatives to support the bill.
NCBFAA also acknowledged the contributions of individuals and organizations who worked tirelessly over the past two decades to advance CBFA. Past and current leaders of the association's Legislative Committee, along with former NCBFAA Legislative Representative Jon Kent, were recognized for their efforts. Additionally, the longstanding lobbying efforts of organizations such as the New York/New Jersey Foreign Freight Forwarders & Brokers Association, JFK Airport Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association, and International Trade Surety Association were highlighted as instrumental in the bill's progress.
In a recent enforcement action at International Falls, Minnesota, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers intercepted over 7,800 lighting fixtures bearing counterfeit Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification marks. These fixtures, as part of shipments from China and imported by a U.S. home design company, were deemed unsafe after inspection, raising concerns about potential fire hazards.
The seized lighting fixtures, among the cargo transiting from Canada into the United States, were inspected by CBP officers at International Falls, the busiest rail port in the country. Upon discovering the counterfeit UL certification marks, which falsely implied safety testing, CBP seized the shipments and initiated enforcement actions.
DeAnn O’Hara, CBP’s Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures Officer for the area port of Pembina, North Dakota, highlighted the seriousness of the issue. "When U.S. consumers purchase a lighting fixture with a UL trademark on it, they are under the impression that the lighting fixture has been tested for safety. When Chinese manufacturers fraudulently place a UL trademark on untested fixtures, they are tricking consumers into buying a product that may not be safe and could start a fire in their homes," she explained.
CBP imposed fines totaling $100,000 on the shipments, in addition to seizing and destroying the lighting fixtures. This enforcement action underscores CBP's commitment to protecting the American public from unsafe and counterfeit products.
The seized lighting fixtures represent just one facet of CBP's broader efforts to safeguard public safety and enforce trade regulations. Beyond intercepting unsafe goods, CBP's Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures Division (FP&F) plays a crucial role in adjudicating enforcement actions, ensuring compliance with laws, and facilitating the forfeiture process for seized items.
FP&F, comprised of a team of officers, paralegals, seized property specialists, and technicians nationwide, handles a wide range of cases, from drug seizures to intellectual property rights violations. The division follows a strict process with defined timeframes to ensure fairness and due process for all parties involved.
In addition to its enforcement duties, FP&F is instrumental in returning stolen property and cultural artifacts to their rightful owners. Recent successes include repatriating stolen artifacts to countries like Ukraine and Yemen, showcasing CBP's dedication to preserving cultural heritage and combating illegal trade.
While CBP faces challenges in keeping pace with evolving trade patterns and increasing volumes of shipments, its collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and commitment to public safety remain steadfast. As DeAnn O’Hara emphasized, "At CBP, we take the safety of the American public very seriously. That’s why we work so hard to remove unsafe products from the U.S. commerce before they can ever reach consumers."
In a significant interception, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers (CBP) at the San Ysidro Port of Entry apprehended over $11 million worth of blue fentanyl pills concealed within a vehicle recently.
A staggering estimated 561,000 fentanyl pills, with a total weight of 123.6 pounds, were confiscated by CBP officers during the operation, highlighting the continuous efforts to curb the influx of illicit drugs across the border.
The interception unfolded around 8:20 p.m. when a 37-year-old man driving a 2008 sedan applied for admission into the United States from Mexico at the San Ysidro Port of Entry. A CBP K-9 unit, conducting routine pre-primary inspections, alerted officers to the glove compartment area, indicating potential narcotics present presence.
Following the canine alert, CBP officers proceeded with further examination, leading them to refer both the driver and the vehicle for comprehensive inspection in the secondary inspection area.
Upon meticulous scrutiny, CBP officers uncovered a startling discovery – a total of 100 packages containing blue pills meticulously concealed within the vehicle's dashboard and the front passenger seats. Subsequent testing confirmed the contents as fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid known for its lethal potency.
Mariza Marin, Port Director for the San Ysidro Port of Entry, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Fentanyl is a very lethal drug that continues to be encountered along our southern border. I’m very proud of the exceptional work by our officers who skillfully interdict illicit narcotics on a daily basis.”
The apprehended individual was promptly handed over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation, while both the narcotics and the vehicle were seized by CBP officers as part of the operation.
This seizure is part of Operation Apollo, a collaborative regional effort involving federal, state, and local agencies aimed at combating the pervasive threat posed by fentanyl and other illicit synthetic narcotics. Operation Apollo underscores the commitment of law enforcement entities to safeguard communities against the devastating impact of drug trafficking.
For more information about Operation Apollo and ongoing efforts to combat the drug trade, interested individuals are encouraged to seek additional details through official channels.
The successful interception serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of CBP officers in safeguarding the nation's borders and preventing dangerous substances from infiltrating communities.
The U.S. Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced significant revisions to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), imposing stricter controls on exports and reexports to Nicaragua. This move comes in response to mounting concerns regarding human rights abuses perpetrated by the Nicaraguan government against its citizens and civil society groups, as well as its continued military and security cooperation with Russia.
The amendments, effective immediately, see Nicaragua being shifted from Country Group B to Country Group D:5, resulting in a more restrictive classification. Consequently, a stricter licensing policy will apply to items controlled for national security reasons, with the country now subject to 'military end use' and 'military end user' restrictions.
Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security Alan Estevez emphasized the alignment of U.S. national security and foreign policy with its values, stating, "We will not allow peaceful trade to be diverted in ways that undermine our values and weaken our security." Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration Thea D. Rozman Kendler echoed this sentiment, highlighting the role of export controls in preventing U.S. technology from being misused to support human rights abuses.
This rule builds upon previous actions by BIS, including the addition of the Nicaraguan National Police to the Entity List in March 2023. It reflects ongoing efforts by the U.S. Government to restrict the availability of items subject to EAR to Nicaragua’s military and security services.
The move signifies a continued escalation in U.S. efforts to address the situation in Nicaragua, as international concern grows over the Ortega government's crackdown on dissent and violations of human rights.
JASVP Compliance, Laurie Arnold attended the CBP Trade Facilitation and Cargo Security Summit in Philadelphia, PA from March 26 through March 28, 2024. The US Customs Trade Facilitation & Cargo Security Summit in Philadelphia addressed updates on ACE 2.0, continuing education, and ecommerce.
Also, JAS’ own Scott Cassell, Corporate Compliance Project Manager attended the Commerce Department’s BIS Update Conference on Export Controls and Policy in Washington DC from March 27 through March 29, 2024. A wide variety of topics related to US export controls were updated by members of the Commerce Department and related agencies involved in export controls.
Every year on April 4th, carrot enthusiasts and food lovers alike come together to celebrate National Carrot Day. This humble vegetable, with its vibrant orange hue and crisp texture, holds a special place in the hearts and diets of people worldwide.
Carrots, scientifically known as Daucus carota, have a rich history dating back thousands of years. Originating in Central Asia, they were initially cultivated for their medicinal properties rather than culinary appeal. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, recognized carrots for their health benefits, particularly for improving eyesight.
Over time, carrots evolved from a medicinal herb to a staple ingredient in cuisines around the globe. From soups and salads to stews and desserts, carrots lend their unique flavor and nutritional value to a myriad of dishes. Their versatility in both savory and sweet recipes makes them a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
Nutritionally, carrots pack a powerful punch. They are an excellent source of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is crucial for eye health, immune function, and skin health. Additionally, carrots provide a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.
National Carrot Day offers an opportunity to celebrate this underrated vegetable and explore its culinary potential. Whether enjoyed raw as a crunchy snack, roasted to caramelized perfection, or blended into a velvety soup, there are endless ways to savor the flavor and goodness of carrots.
Beyond their culinary appeal, carrots have also found their way into popular culture, appearing in folklore, literature, and even as beloved cartoon characters. Who can forget Bugs Bunny munching on a carrot as he outsmarts his foes?
In addition to indulging in carrot-centric dishes, National Carrot Day encourages awareness of sustainable farming practices and the importance of supporting local agriculture. Choosing organic, locally grown carrots not only ensures freshness and flavor but also reduces carbon footprint and supports small-scale farmers.
So, whether you're a devoted carrot connoisseur or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, National Carrot Day provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate this crunchy and nutritious root vegetable. So grab a bunch of carrots, get creative in the kitchen, and join in the festivities on April 4th!
On February 26, the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) issued its long-awaited final rule for Demurrage and Detention Billing Requirements. The issuance and processing of detention and demurrage invoices by common carriers and marine terminal operators has long been a contentious issue in the logistics industry. The FMC deserves credit for taking this issue on and working to bring some standards to the process. The final rule will be effective as of May 28, 2024. Some of the key elements of the final rule are:
• A list of required minimum information that must be included on any invoice for detention or demurrage. If any of this information is missing, that will eliminate the obligation for the billed party to pay.
• An invoice for detention or demurrage must be issued by a billing party to either the consignee or the person for whose account the billing party provided ocean transportation or storage of cargo and who contracted with the billing party for the ocean transportation or storage of cargo.
• A billing party must issue a demurrage or detention invoice within thirty (30) calendar days from the date on which the charge was last incurred. If billed after thirty (30) calendar days, then the billed party is not required to pay.
• If the billing party is a non-vessel-operating common carrier (NVOCC), then it must issue a demurrage or detention invoice within thirty (30) calendar days from the issuance date of the demurrage or detention invoice it received. If the NVOCC issues an invoice after thirty (30) calendar days, then the billed party is not required to pay.
• The billing party must allow the billed party at least thirty (30) calendar days from the invoice issuance date to request mitigation, refund, or waiver of fees from the billing party. The billing party must then resolve such a request within thirty (30) calendar days of receiving the request or at a later date as agreed upon by both parties.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently released an update to its 1991 Directive 3510-004 – Monetary Guidelines for Setting Bond Amounts. The updated guide is entitled "A Guide for the Public: How CBP Sets Bond Amounts”. The new guide brings the previous directive up to date by amending many minimum bond requirements, adding information on bond activity codes that were not included in the earlier directive such as for Importer Security Filing bonds and Marine Terminal Operator bonds, and adding information on ACE eBond procedures.
A large tractor and agricultural equipment manufacturer agreed via a stipulated judgment to pay $2 million in penalties for falsely labeling wholly-imported replacement parts as “Made in the USA”. It was also agreed that the company would submit compliance reports and notices to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for the next 20 years. The FTC had initiated the proceeding against the company to enforce its Made in USA Labeling Rule. This rule states that for items to be labeled as “Made in the USA”, the final assembly or processing of the good, and all significant processing that goes into the good, must occur in the United States. Further, all or virtually all ingredients or components of the good must be made and sourced in the United States.
A Florida couple were sentenced to 57 months in prison and were ordered to pay over $42 million in forfeitures, as well as reimbursing the government for over $1.6 million in storage costs, after pleading guilty to conspiring to import plywood in violation of the Lacey Act and customs laws and conspiring to sell the illegally imported plywood. An employee of theirs was also sentenced to 3 years probation and ordered to pay a $3,000 fine. From 2016 to 2020, the couple, via several companies set up for the purpose, imported numerous containers of plywood products and falsely declared the species, country of origin and country of harvest to avoid paying antidumping and countervailing duties that had been instituted on such products from China in 2017. Some of the plywood was shipped to Malaysia from China and re-loaded in containers to appear to be of Malaysian origin. False Lacey Act declarations were then made upon entry into the U.S.
On February 12, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced in the Federal Register that the Global Business Identifier (GBI) Evaluative Proof of Concept (EPoC) will be extended to February 23, 2027. The test is also being expanded to include entries of merchandise classifiable under any subheading of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule and for merchandise of any country of origin. Previously, the test was limited to certain categories of merchandise from only 10 specific countries of origin. The purpose of the test is to evaluate a possible replacement for the Manufacturer Identification Code (MID). The MID is a code that is required to be submitted on all customs entries to identify the manufacturer or shipper involved. For the test, all or one of three alternative codes can be used to identify the manufacturer, shipper, and seller on entries. These alternatives are the nine (9)-digit Data Universal Numbering System (D–U–N–S®), thirteen (13)-digit Global Location Number (GLN), and/or twenty (20)-digit Legal Entity Identifier (LEI). All of these alternatives provide more detailed and specific information on the parties involved and would create greater visibility into supply chains.
The long negotiated United States initiative, the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework For Prosperity (IPEF), finally had one of its agreements enter into force on February 24, 2024. The Supply Chain Resilience Agreement was negotiated “to establish a framework for deeper collaboration to prevent, mitigate, and prepare for supply chain disruptions, such as those experienced in recent years from the COVID-19 pandemic”. The IPEF has 14 countries as participants - the United States, Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The first step in implementation of this agreement will be the establishment of three bodies, the Supply Chain Council, Crisis Response Network, and Labor Rights Advisory Board, with a goal of “identifying and notifying partners of each country’s list of critical sectors and key goods for cooperation under the Agreement by no later than 120 days after the date of the entry into force for each country”.
Recently at the Logan Airport in Boston, a passenger who was returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo had a suspicious piece of baggage screened. The passenger advised the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agriculture Officer on the scene that the baggage only contained dried fish. However, upon further inspection, the officer found four dead and dehydrated bodies of monkeys in the baggage. Minimally processed wild animal meat such as this is often referred to as “bushmeat”. Bushmeat can come from a variety of wild animals and can, therefore, carry numerous germs and viruses, such as Ebola, which can pose a significant heath risk. The bushmeat in this case, however, might not have been discovered if there was not another officer on the scene, CBP K9 Buddey! K9 Buddey is a part of one of the 180 canine teams that assist CBP officers at air passenger terminals, border crossings, cruise terminals and other locations. The CBP officer handlers and their canine partners undergo 10 to 13 weeks of intense training together before being deployed in the field. Beagles and beagle mixes are the preferred breed of dog for use as K9’s since beagles have a very keen sense of smell and have a gentle disposition towards the public. They are usually trained to alert handlers of contraband by sitting near or pawing at the offending baggage. Next time you see a K9 in action, salute them for their service, but hope that they do not come and sit down next to you…
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) released its Export Enforcement Review for last year stating that 2023 was the year with the highest number ever of convictions, temporary denial orders and post-conviction denial orders. Some of the actions taken that the BIS highlighted were:
• Imposed the largest standalone administrative penalty in BIS history – a $300 million penalty related to the continued shipment of millions of hard disk drives to a sanctioned entity even after other competitors stopped shipping due to the foreign direct product rule.
• Obtained a guilty plea from a program administrator for a NASA contractor who secretly funneled sensitive aeronautics software to a Chinese University, which was on the Entity List for its involvement in developing Chinese military rocket systems and unmanned air vehicle systems.
• Imposed a $2.77 million penalty on a 3D printing company related to its sending export-controlled blueprints for aerospace and military electronics to China.
• Worked with the Department of Justice to bring eight separate indictments charging 14 people for their role in procuring items for the Russian military and Russian security service.
• In coordination with the Office of Foreign Assets Control, imposed a $3.3 million combined penalty against a major U.S. software firm for alleged and apparent violations of U.S. export controls and sanctions laws, including violations involving Russia, Cuba, Iran, and Syria.
BIS also emphasized the launch of the Disruptive Technology Strike Force with the Department of Justice “to protect U.S. advanced technologies from illegal acquisition and use by nation-state adversaries like Russia, China, and Iran. The Strike Force brings together experienced agents and prosecutors in fourteen locations across the country, supported by an interagency intelligence effort in Washington, D.C., to pursue investigations and take criminal and/or administrative enforcement action as appropriate”.
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