Title: NCBFAA Scores Important Victory on Food Safety
On: 2009-07-30 10:43:22
Today the House will vote on a modified Food Safety bill that represents a significant accomplishment for customs brokers. Thanks to the hundreds of letters sent by customs brokers and the strong leadership of House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) and Ranking Minority Member Dave Camp (R-MI) in last minute negotiations with the House Energy and Commerce Committee, the final bill contains the following improvements: NO CIVIL PENALTIES! Specifically exempts customs brokers from the onerous civil penalty provisions (up to $250,000 for inadvertent violations and $500,000 for knowing violations). NO REGISTRATION FEE: Customs brokers will not be subject to the $500 annual registration fee for importers and food facilities. MINIMAL REGISTRATION: Although a customs broker processing food imports will be required to register with FDA, the purpose is limited to providing an appropriate unique facility identifier. There are protections to limit cancellation of a registration to instances when the registration has not been updated or contains false, incomplete or inaccurate information. And this can only occur after notice and the opportunity to update or correct the registration is provided. We are particularly grateful to our affiliated associations for their direct intervention. The grassroots response from customs brokers throughout the country was unprecedented. This victory is a direct result of the relentless drumbeat generated by brokers. Now, with these changes, NCBFAA is well positioned as we enter the next phase: Senate consideration of their own Food Safety legislation. Although our preference is to omit customs brokers from the bill entirely as the legislative process continues, the modified House bill meets our primary objectives of eliminating the strict liability and harsh penalty scheme for brokers and the recurring annual fees. Thank you to each and every one of you for a job well done!
Title: CPSC ISSUES POLICY STATEMENT ON TRACKING LABELS
On: 2009-07-24 10:24:59
More Info
Title: Senator Boxer Announces Funding to Stop Border Drug Trafficking
On: 2009-07-24 10:16:40
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Title: Duty-Free Entry of Festive Articles-Latest Developments
On: 2009-07-24 08:55:38
GRUNFELD, DESIDERIO, LEBOWITZ, SILVERMAN & KLESTADT LLP COUNSELORS AT LAW More Info.
Title: Security Bulletin - South West Border
On: 2009-07-23 09:14:36
As we maintain our vigilance against extremist attacks originating from locations far from our borders, we must also recognize that many threats we face are much closer. Over the course of the past few months law enforcement on both sides of the US/Mexico border have made several large narcotics seizures involving commercial shipments linked to C-TPAT members. The seizures have occurred across the entire southwest border and involved both dry goods as well as fresh produce. In most cases the narcotics were commingled with the commercial merchandise. Of particular note is that in many instances C-TPAT members were utilizing the services of non-C-TPAT service providers. CBP reminds members that they are expected to use C-TPAT partners to the extent possible and to conduct extensive screening of their non-C-TPAT business partners. Members must have written and verifiable processes in place to ensure this screening takes place on a consistent basis. Given the current threat from Mexico, non-C-TPAT business partners must be afforded higher levels of scrutiny. C-TPAT members are expected to verify the security measures being utilized. Comprehensive reviews of recent events have clearly identified two primary causative factors having enabled supply chain security breaches; Companies had established security procedures in place yet failed to follow them. Lack of corporate oversight ultimately resulting in significant levels of subversion of established supply chain security procedures via internal conspiracies. It is imperative that C-TPAT partners perform internal risk assessments to identify inherent threats to supply chain corridors and augment established security procedures accordingly. We have taken this opportunity to identify other causative factors which you may wish to consider as you evaluate the risk factors unique to your supply chain and further, the steps that you can take to mitigate these risks. Areas of consideration include: Ensuring there is adequate oversight and accountability of the cargo loading and sealing process. Employing the use of cameras and/or other suitable monitoring devices or processes at the cargo loading areas. Ensuring that all conveyance hardware and fastening devices are inspected for overall security and deterrence of unauthorized access. Where deficiencies are present, steps must be taken to mitigate the risk and/or harden all fastening/access devices. Consider the use of more stringent security devices to secure trailer doors. Audit and verification of employee screening processes, to include periodic reviews. Consider rotating personnel assigned to operationally sensitive positions, such as dispatcher. Review the established processes for oversight of the transportation component. Areas of potential weaknesses and vulnerability should be assessed. Specific attention and focus should be provided towards addressing potential delays and/or opportunities for security breach. Members should work with service providers to develop written and verifiable procedures to track conveyances from the point of origin to the final destination. Establishment of route times from the manufacturing site to various points in the transportation flow will help monitor and ensure that drivers are arriving at designated locations within established time parameters. Members should work with service providers to develop written and verifiable procedures to address those instances that a driver does not check in within established time parameters. Drivers should not be allowed to make unauthorized stops. While the focus of this security bulletin is directed toward operations along the South West Border of the United States, all C-TPAT members are highly encouraged to take this opportunity to review their established security processes. Continued supply chain security is dependent upon your continued vigilance. You are encouraged to contact your assigned Supply Chain Security Specialist to discuss ways in which your company can help CBP address this issue or if you have specific concerns that need to be addressed. In closing, the program relays its continued appreciation of your diligent and continued efforts in securing the international supply chain.
Title: CBP ISF/"10+2" 2009 Outreach Schedule
On: 2009-07-21 08:50:21
CBP is hosting trade outreach events in various locations around the country to provide the trade community with an opportunity to learn more about the new Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements (a.k.a. ISF/"10+2") interim final rule. (more)
Title: FDA's PREDICT rollout soon
On: 2009-07-16 18:01:57
FDA’s new PREDICT risk –based screening system may begin rollout soon. On July 15, 2009, officials from the Food and Drug Administration provided a status update on two separate but linked systems, PREDICT (Predictive Risk-based Evaluation for Dynamic Import Compliance Targeting) and ITACS (Import Trade Auxiliary Communications System). FDA officials also discussed the current use of manufacturer identification (MID) codes and the possible future use of the Dunn and Bradstreet Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number. The following are highlights of their comments and the slide presentation used at the meeting: ITACS Will Allow Filers to Check FDA Status of Entries/Lines, Etc. ITACS is an internet portal for entry filers to check the FDA status of individual entries/lines, submit documents and link them to specific entries/lines, and provide availability information for targeted shipments. Submitted documents will be readily available to entry reviewers. ITACS is expected to be rolled out with PREDICT. PREDICT User Acceptance Testing Soon, Roll Out May Begin in September PREDICT is currently in the simulation-testing phase and FDA expects to do user acceptance testing soon. If all goes well with testing, the nationwide rollout of PREDICT will begin in late September 2009. While the system may not be complete by then, it will be operational. Will Replace OASIS as Import Screening Program PREDICT will replace the admissibility screening portion of FDA's legacy OASIS system for processing import entries. It is a rule-based expert system to assess information from multiple sources and determine which shipments carry the highest risk. (FDA began piloting a simpler version of PREDICT in June 2007 at five ports within the Los Angeles District for seafood imports. According to the FDA, the test was successful as the “hit rate" of violative findings for field exams increased, the violation rate increased, and the automated "may proceed" response increased. While the pilot test ended, it is still being used by those volunteers in Los Angeles per their request.) Will Score Each Line Entry, Expected to Increase Number of “May Proceed” Decisions PREDICT will Improve the “hit rate" for exams and samples by (partial list): · Scoring each entry line on the basis of risk factors and surveillance requirements · Increasing the number of automated, real-time, risk-based “may proceed” decisions, thereby giving entry reviewers more time to manually evaluate higher-risk lines · For those lines not given an automated “may proceed,” providing reviewers with the line scores and the reasons for those scores Poor Data Quality or Missing Data Will Increase Risk Score FDA officials emphasized that when PREDICT comes online, the quality of entry data will be very important. Poor data quality or missing data will increase the risk scores for subsequent entry lines. Higher risk scores increase the likelihood of examination and/or sampling by FDA. FDA notes that filers’ data error rates will be available to the public through the Freedom of Information Act. FDA provided the following examples of data that PREDICT will use for risk scoring: · Admissibility history with respect to the manufacturer, exporter, importer, and consignee for the current product (at industry and more specific levels) · Accuracy of product and facility coding by entry filers · Data anomalies within the current entry · Results of field exams and sample analyses of previous entries · Results of facility inspections, foreign and domestic · Ratings of inherent product risks · Open source intelligence pertaining to the manufacturer, foreign locale, product, etc. Submitting Different MIDs for Established Facilities Will Elevate Risk Score FDA officials noted that it has been receiving inconsistent MIDs for the same foreign facility and this is a serious data quality issue for FDA. Officials added that on average, there are six MIDs per facility. Submitting a different MID for an established, site-specific facility will cause PREDICT to view the facility as new, and the entry line’s risk score will be substantially elevated. The long-term solution is to replace the MID with a unique, reproducible identifier such as DUNS. Officials noted that there is legislation currently on Capitol Hill that could require the use of the DUNS number. If such legislation does not pass, FDA may pursue a rulemaking as a vehicle for requiring the use of DUNS numbers. PREDICT Will Use Affirmations of Compliance OASIS cannot utilize affirmations of compliance to do automated lookups in Center databases for marketing status. For example, OASIS sends nearly all entry lines for low-acid canned foods and for medical products to entry reviewers (no system “may proceeds”). With accurate and complete affirmations of compliance, PREDICT will be able to do the automated lookups for marketing status. If an automated lookup fails, the entry line will be forwarded to a reviewer for manual processing. (Affirmations of compliance are data elements submitted voluntarily to FDA to expedite the entry review process. Examples include new drug application numbers, device “510(k) clearance” numbers, national drug codes (NDC), and radiological health product report accession numbers.) (See ITT's Online Archives or 06/08/09 news, (Ref: 09060810), for BP summary of GAO finding faults in FDA import surveillance systems.) Presentation available via email by sending a request to documents@brokerpower.com
Title: ABI Air In-Bond Functionality Available for Testing
On: 2009-07-09 09:19:30
Automated Broker Interface On Monday, July 13, 2009, the ABI Air In-Bond (Application Identifer QX/WX) will be available for testing in ACS. If you are interested in testing this functionality, please contact your ABI Client Representative. Another CSMS Message will be issued when the functionality is available in ACS Production. Related CSMS No. 09-000234, 09-000026, 08-000307
Title: C.A.F.E.S (Customs Automated Form Entry System) To Be Retired - Removed from Production
On: 2009-07-09 09:17:53
Automated Broker Interface The CAFES application that generates a modified CBP Form 7512 with 2 Dimensional bar code (PDF-417) and used for non automated In-Bond initiation at some land border and other locations, will be retired from the CBP automated operations environment when the modernized ocean/rail application, known as the ACE “M1” project, goes into production during CBP Fiscal Year 2010. Current forecast is that M1 will be operationally ready for production deployment around the end of calendar 2009 (FY2010). Further updates will be provided as the M1 project nears production implementation. All CAFES users should begin preparing to use alternate means of In-Bond initiation, such as the automated “QP-WP” application set. For information regarding QP-WP, please contact your assigned client representative.
Title: Court Ruling on Dusted Shrimp
On: 2009-07-02 09:14:30
COURT INVALIDATES THE EXCLUSION OF "DUSTED SHRIMP" FROM THE SCOPE OF THE ANTIDUMPING DUTY ORDERS ON FROZEN SHRIMP More Info.
Title: New SENTRI Office Hours
On: 2009-07-02 09:12:26
This message is to advise that beginning Monday July 19, 2009 the SENTRI Enrollment Center Office hours will be changed: NEW operating hours for the SENTRI Office Starting Monday July 19, 2009 the SENTRI Office operating hours will be Monday through Friday 08:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Nuevo horario para la oficina SENTRI A partir del Lunes 19 de Julio 2009, las horas de operación en la oficina de SENTRI, serán de lunes a viernes de 8:00 a.m. a 8:00 p.m. Robert Hood Customs & Border Protection Deputy APD Otay Mesa Passenger Operations
Title: GDLSK ALERT_RECENT COURT DECISION REFUNDING 100% PUNITIVE DUTY COLLECTED BY CUSTOMS ON GOODS FROM THE EU
On: 2009-06-19 11:42:13
More Info.
Title: Secretary Napolitano and Mexican Finance Minister Agustín Carstens Sign Bilateral Agreement to Strengthen Security and Facilitate Trade
On: 2009-06-17 15:28:49
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano and Mexican Minister of Finance and Public Credit Agustín Carstens today signed a Letter of Intent that will strengthen bilateral cooperation between the United States and Mexico. The agreement aims to increase security in both countries and facilitate the flow of legal travel and trade. “This agreement strengthens the partnership between the United States and Mexico to bolster our shared security,” said Secretary Napolitano. “Through coordinated enforcement and improved communication, we can work together to combat violence along the border while supporting tourism and trade.” “This is another important step for the longstanding relationship and collaboration between our customs agencies,” said Secretary Carstens. “The more we work together, the better the service and security we provide to our peoples and economies.” The agreement builds upon an unprecedented level of collaboration between the two nations and provides a roadmap for critical bi-national initiatives between the U.S. and Mexico. Specifically, the agreement seeks to strengthen border enforcement by creating a framework for establishing bi-national Port Security Management Committees, developing a joint implementation plan for cooperative capacity building, and increasing trade facilitation between the two nations through increased information sharing and a harmonized customs clearance process. The Letter of Intent expresses a mutual desire between DHS and the Mexican Ministry of Finance and Public Credit to continue and expand their relationship through the Declaration of Principles and Bilateral Strategic Plan. In June 2007, DHS and the Ministry signed a Declaration of Principles to strengthen bilateral cooperation, and promote further engagement, including a Bilateral Strategic Plan between U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Mexico Customs.
Title: CBP Issuing New Trusted Traveler Cards for Commercial Drivers: Border Crossing Program Members Asked to Update Contact Information
On: 2009-06-17 13:03:06
Truck Manifest Washington – U.S. Customs and Border Protection reminds members of its Free and Secure Trade program that all FAST cards are compliant with the new travel document requirements under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative that went into effect on June 1. FAST cards can be used by travelers in commercial lanes or in regular passenger lanes at U.S. land ports of entry. They cannot be used in the NEXUS and SENTRI dedicated lanes. CBP has been issuing new cards for current FAST members since March 16. The new cards have enhanced security features that allow U.S. and Canadian citizen cardholders to comply with the documentary requirements under WHTI. All members must activate their cards within 30 days of issuance by going to the GOES application on the CBP Web site: More Info
Title: Input Sought on Registration, Foreign Assembler Information Collections
On: 2009-06-17 12:56:36
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is extending to July 17 the comment period on the proposed extension without change of forms 4455 and 4457, Certificate of Registration. This certificate is used to expedite duty-free or reduced duty entry for foreign-made personal articles that are taken abroad, which are dutiable each time they are brought into the U.S. unless there is acceptable proof of prior possession. It is also used for the registration, examination and supervised lading of commercial shipments of articles exported for repair, alteration, processing, etc., that will subsequently be returned to the U.S. either free of duty or at a reduced rate. More Info
Title: U.S. to check Mexico-bound vehicles
On: 2009-06-17 12:51:44
U.S. border agents will now check for guns and drug money in vehicles heading south over the border into Mexico, officials say. Also part of a new bilateral agreement signed Monday, officials from both countries said they are working to produce a single customs form recognized by both governments to make it easier for cross-border tourists and workers, The Arizona Republic reported. "People traveling south across the border will see more license-plate scanners and more canine teams in place," Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said of the agreement signed with Agustin Carstens, Mexico's minister of finance and public credit. The agreement reportedly calls for enhanced cooperation on anti-drug smuggling efforts and border violence. The Republic said the deal also includes U.S. promises to help Mexico train 1,500 more customs officers. "The more we work together, the better the service and security we provide to our peoples and economies," said Carstens, who joined Napolitano at a Washington news conference Monday.
Title: Brokers broadsided by proposed FDA registration
On: 2009-06-08 09:28:01
Brokers broadsided by proposed FDA registration U.S. customs brokers say they were broadsided by proposed legislative provisions in the 2009 Food Safety Enhancement Act that would require them to be registered along with importers in an effort to strengthen the Food and Drug Administration’s oversight of the nation’s food supply. “These provisions surfaced only last week, were preceded by no consultation with our industry and, we are told, may go to subcommittee mark-up next week,” said Mary Jo Muoio, president of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America, in a letter to House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman on Thursday. Muoio noted to the chairman that “the committee’s draft treats customs brokers as if they are importers.” She further added that the committee ignored existing regulatory and licensing requirements already long in place for the customs broker industry. The draft legislation “attempts to erect a duplicate regulatory framework that distorts the role of the broker,” she said. Waxman Under the proposal, the NCBFAA said the customs broker, like the importer, is subject to fees and a mandatory registration that the Health and Human Services Department can suspend or cancel for an “inaccurate or incomplete statement or submission of information relating to the importation of food, drugs, or devices.” In addition, the measure would subject the broker to a civil penalty of up to $500,000. “Lost in this provision is the fact that a customs broker must rely on the commercial documents and other information supplied by his client, the U.S. importer,” Muoio said. “And yet the committee’s draft holds the customs broker strictly liable for the importer-supplied information – with truly debilitating fines and consequences if the information turns out to be inaccurate in any respect.” The FDA has responsibility for nearly 80 percent of the food supply. Imported foods account for about 13 percent of the average U.S. consumer’s annual diet, according to the Safe Food Coalition. Congress is under extreme public pressure to respond to recent food borne illnesses by increasing the FDA’s ability to monitor and better control the wholesomeness of imported foods. A Food Industry Center poll found that the percentage of consumers satisfied with the safety of the food supply fell to 22.5 percent earlier this year. “Our committee is in the middle of a busy three month period. Last month we passed comprehensive energy and climate change legislation. Soon we will take up health care reform,” Waxman said during a Wednesday hearing to review the draft food safety bill. “But food safety is so critical that I’ve carved out time to pass this legislation. “Over the next few weeks, I intend to work with all our committee members, Democratic and Republican, with the FDA; and with affected industries, to achieve consensus on a food safety bill that we can pass out of committee. We can’t afford to wait any longer.”
Title: WESCCON 2009 website
On: 2009-06-05 10:33:57
The website for registration and hotel reservations is up and running! Regards, WESCCON Chair 2009
Title: C-TPAT Conference New Orleans 2009
On: 2009-05-05 14:56:44
Trade Pros Flash More Info.
Title: TOXICS IN PACKAGING
On: 2009-04-30 08:54:43
Recently, major retailers have begun requesting certifications from vendors confirming that their products comply with the “Toxics in Packaging Laws.” These laws, enacted in nineteen states,[1][1] prohibit the intentional use of any amount of lead, cadmium, mercury, or hexavalent chromium in packaging or individual packaging components, such as inks and labels. In addition, total concentration levels of unintended or incidental regulated metals in a package or packaging component are limited to less than 100 parts per million (0.01%) by weight. Generally, these materials appear in plastic packaging but may appear in other materials particularly through coatings and pigments. The restrictions imposed by these state laws are distinct from other federal lead limits such as those established by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008. Read More
Title: Changes to CITES Appendix III
On: 2009-04-29 08:44:03
NOTICE TO THE WILDLIFE IMPORT/EXPORT COMMUNITY Bulletin
Title: 2009-019 Declaration of Sale Post Summary Filing
On: 2009-04-27 10:59:33
Purpose: This memorandum provides guidance pertaining to the appropriate method for the importer or authorized agent to disclose to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), post summary filing that the entered value of imported goods was based on the “first sale” price as defined by the First Sale Declaration Requirement. The First Sale Declaration Requirement was established under section 15422(a) in the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008, commonly referred to as the Farm Bill. PIN.
Title: CBP Advises of 'Phishing' E-Mails Being Distributed
On: 2009-04-27 10:55:20
CBP has been notified that malicious e-mails have been circulating which claim to be from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and reference a package or other items which have been intercepted by CBP. These e-mails are not authentic and have not been sent from the Department of Homeland Security or any CBP authorized system or individual. Newsletter
Title: News from ZISSER
On: 2009-04-27 10:46:05
Global Supply Chain Security News CBP's Latest News Releases C-TPAT Best Practice Update 2009 Another Reason to Join C-TPAT C-TPAT "State of the Program" Update Article Headline Article Headline Click Here - Newsletter
Title: MS&K International Trade Alert - April 24, 2009
On: 2009-04-24 11:26:05
Domestic Food Producers Claim Their Antidumping Interests Were Not Protected. Newsletter
Title: Reconciliation Plus Seminar
On: 2009-04-17 10:30:04
OUR SCHEDULED PRESENTATION FOR NEXT WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22 HAS BEEN MOVED TO WEDNESDAY, MAY 20TH See Details.
Title: Major SENTRI Improvements in Otay Mesa
On: 2009-04-15 21:25:36
Otay Mesa Chamber of Commerce Otay Action Newsletter
Title: FDA Meeting, April 17, 2009
On: 2009-04-15 17:43:19
FDA will be introducing new regulations on how to handle the entry review process. Seats are limited; therefore please confirm your attendance as soon as possible via email to guillermo@lizarragabrokers.com FDA Office Meeting 2320 Paseo de las Americas, Ste. 200 San Diego, CA 92154 Conference Room 10:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. April 17, 2009, Friday Your participation is appreciated. Regards, Guillermo B. Lizarraga Education Chairman San Diego Customs Brokers Association
Title: GDLSK Alert-Further Duty Savings Opportunity for Garments Imported On Hangers
On: 2009-04-15 17:39:52
Please see the attached memo on Further Duty Savings Opportunity for Garments Imported On Hangers. If you require additional information or have any questions, please contact Arthur Bodek at 212-973-7704 More Info.
Title: Expanded Hours of Otay Mesa Commercial Facility
On: 2009-04-15 17:15:38
Customs and Border Protection will initiate extended hours of operation for a trial period of six months. This extension of hours will affect Monday through Friday service at both Import and Export Facilities. Weekend hours will remain unchanged. 2008-033 6 Month Expanded Hours. 2008-005A Normal hours of Operations.
Title: Mexican Customs Southbound Program
On: 2009-04-13 08:35:51
The Mexican Government will be inspecting all vehicles coming into Mexico in an effort to detect weapons and bulk cash smuggling. Southbound traffic at both the Otay Mesa and San Ysidro ports will be impacted. Mexican Customs will be discussing this program at an event to be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Caltrans located in 4050 Taylor St, San Diego, Ca. There is no charge for this event, however seating is limited. Advanced registration is required. Please register at lantonio@consulmexsd.org by April 17th or for more information you may also contact Lydia Antonio at (619) 308-9949.
Title: CSMS# 09-000166 - NEW trade training available for all ACE portal users!
On: 2009-04-07 09:46:59
ACE Portal Accounts NEW trade training available for all ACE portal users! Web-based Training (WBT) for Multi-Modal Manifest and ESAR Enhancements (A2) is now available. Listed below are the topics included in the new WBT as well as the recommended audience. The WBT provides extensive training on the new enhancements which will be deployed on April 12, 2009. Lesson 1: ACE Introduction – ALL ACE Accounts Lesson 2: Portal Navigation – ALL ACE Accounts Lesson 3: Ocean Conveyance – Ocean Carrier Accounts Lesson 4: In Bond Authorization – Ocean, Rail and Truck Carrier Accounts Lesson 5: Mode of Communication – Broker, Carrier and Importer Accounts Lesson 6: Declarations - Broker and Importer Accounts Lesson 7: CBP Forms - Broker and Importer Accounts Lesson 8: New ACE Reports – Broker & Importer Accounts To take the WBT, visit the “Training and Reference Guides” section on www.cbp.gov/modernization. The URL for the ACE Web Based Training and the required user name and password are: https://nemo.customs.gov/ace_online/ User name: user01 Password: 1Password
Title: CSMS# 09-000163 - ACE Portal Navigational Changes & Changes that accommodate the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)
On: 2009-04-06 15:28:26
Truck Manifest On April 12 changes will be made to the ACE Portal screens that will create new ways for carriers to navigate through the Portal. On April 26 ACE will deliver screens that will accept new WHTI compliant travel document types. Both sets of the new ACE Secure Data Portal screen changes are shown in the attached document. See CSMS message number 09-000141 for more details regarding the upcoming WHTI requirements. Related CSMS No. 09-000141, 09-000154 Note that supplemental information to this message is available in the form of one or more file downloads. Please follow the link in this email message to the CSMS web site to access this information.
Title: Registering to Receive ISF Performance Reports
On: 2009-04-06 15:27:51
Automated Broker Interface U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is ready to send out the Importer Security Filing (ISF) Performance Reports. At this time, the ISF Performance Reports will be sent to filers only, who may redistribute relevant portions to individual importers. In order to receive ISF Performance Reports, a filer must register their information with CBP by sending an email to: progress_report@cbp.dhs.gov. The email must provide the following information: > Filer’s corporate name > Filer code used for filing Security Filing > Point of Contact > Point of Contact’s telephone number > Corporate email address to which to send the Performance Report. CBP will call the Point of Contact to verify the provided information. Please call Chuck Miller at 703.553.1772 if you have any questions.
Title: CSMS# 09-000160 - Attention All ACE Accounts: Update on "Task List"
On: 2009-04-06 15:25:22
ACE Reports As part of the Entry Summary, Accounts and Revenue (ESAR) A2.2 release on April 12, 2009, U.S. Customs and Border Protection will be upgrading various software products that will result in messages in the “Task List” being lost. Any existing request from the trade community which displays in the “Task List” such as Account change requests, Merge Account requests, Cross Account Access requests and Notifications waiting approval will not migrate successfully. To ensure outstanding requests are not lost, please notify your Account Manager/Account Administrator or open a trouble ticket with the Technology Support Center prior to April 12, 2009. Thank you.
Title: Proposed Judicial Challange to CBPs Refusal to Allow Importers to File ADD and CVD Reimbursemen
On: 2009-04-02 15:11:28
GDLSK ALERT_PROPOSED JUDICIAL CHALLENGE TO CBP'S REFUSAL TO ALLOW IMPORTERS TO FILE "ADD" AND "CVD" REIMBURSEMENT STATEMENTS AFTER LIQUIDATION More Info.
Title: CSMS# 09-000155 - Implementation of the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau Tax Rate Increase
On: 2009-04-01 17:25:07
Automated Broker Interface On March 31, 2009 the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) published a temporary rule in the Federal Register amending its regulations to implement the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (the Act). The Act was enacted on February 4, 2009. Section 701 of the Act increases the rate of Federal excise tax on tobacco products and cigarette papers and tubes removed from the factory or from internal revenue bond or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) custody on or after April 1, 2009. The Act increases the rates of Federal excise tax on all tobacco products and cigarette papers and cigarette tubes imported into or manufactured in the United States. Starting April 1, 2009, the excise tax on all such products removed from a manufacturer’s premises subject to tax, or released from CBP custody subject to tax, will be taxed at the new rates. The increase in the Federal excise tax has been programmed into the Automated Commercial System (ACS). Additional information on the Act and specific rate increases can be found on the TTB website at: http://www.ttb.gov/tobacco/index.shtml If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Virginia McPherson, Office of International Trade, at (202) 863-6563.
Title: CSMS# 09-000153 - Changes in ACE Truck e-Manifest regarding the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)
On: 2009-04-01 13:57:10
Truck Manifest Two changes have been announced today regarding the ACE Truck e-Manifest support of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). 1. The delivery date of the update to ACE Truck e-Manifest regarding WHTI requirements has been moved forward from April 11th, 2009 to April 25th, 2009. 2. What has been referred to as the Native American Indian Card / INCA will be changed to Enhanced Tribal Card (ETC) / INCA. See associated details in CSMS message # 09-000141. Related CSMS No. 09-000141
Title: CSMS# 09-000141 - Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) and ACE e-Manifest: Trucks
On: 2009-03-30 10:00:39
As of June 1, 2009 manifests submitted without approved Western Hemisphere Travel (WHTI) documents will be rejected. To date, support of WHTI compliant travel documents in the ACE Secure Data Portal is limited to FAST card, Passport, Laser Visa, U.S. Visa, Permanent Resident Card, Reentry Permit and Refugee Permit. If your drivers have one of these WHTI compliant travel documents and you are reporting them in your e-Manifests no further action is required. On April 11, 2009, however, the ACE Portal will be updated to accommodate the following seven additional WHTI compliant travel documents: • Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) • SENTRI Card • NEXUS Card • U.S. Passport Card • Native American Indian/INAC • U.S. Military ID Document • U.S. Merchant Mariner Document Please note: The number of the referenced documents listed above is the data element that will be transmitted with the e-Manifest. An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is a state issued driver’s license that provides additional information not included in a traditional driver’s license or a commercial driver’s license (CDL) such as citizenship information. An EDL has a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and a Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) or barcode that CBP Officers can read electronically if the RFID is not available. An EDL will satisfy both requirements to supply a driver’s license and a travel document in an e-manifest. Not all states currently offer an EDL; please check with your state licensing/Department of Motor Vehicle office for additional information. Additionally, the following changes to the naming convention for existing travel documents will be implemented on April 11, 2009: • “Reentry Permit” will be changed to “DHS Re-Entry Permit” • “Refugee Permit ” will be changed to “DHS Refugee Travel Document Number” • “U.S. Visa Number” will be changed to two separate documents: the “U.S. VISA Immigrant Number” and the “U.S. VISA Non-Immigrant Number”. • The “Permanent Resident Document Number” will be separated into the “A1-US Alien Registration Card Number,” “A-2- U.S. Alien Registration Card Number,” the “C1-Permanent Resident Card Number (1998-2003),” and the “C2-Permanent Resident Card Number” Carriers are encouraged to review their ACE driver accounts to ensure their drivers have one of these WHTI approved documents prior to June 1, 2009. Note: The driver must have the actual travel document that is reported in the e-Manifest available to show CBP upon arrival, if requested. Related CSMS No. 09-000043, 09-000085, 09-000118
Title: Networking Lunch
On: 2009-03-25 12:06:38
Napa Valley Grille 11:00am National Business Promotions will be hosting a Networking Lunch on Wednesday, March 25th at Napa Valley Grille at 502 Horton Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101 at 11:30 am. Their phone number is 619-238-5440 for directions and parking information. This lunch is for anyone doing business in San Diego and the surrounding area. These lunches are held monthly throughout Southern California and you are welcome to attend any of our events. These are FREE to anyone participating but you must register in advance. Space is limited. Please email to confirm your reservation at this month's lunch at Jay@NatBusPros.com . P.O. Box 501 Forest Hill, MD 21087 410-592-2406 Jay Updike 410-592-2406 www.MidAtlanticNetworking.com a division of National Business Promotions, Inc. "We do the work - You get the Exposure"
Title: CBP Automated Forms Streamline Review Process
On: 2009-03-18 16:03:45
(03/17/2009)U.S. Customs and Border Protection will automate versions of CBP Forms 28, 29 and 4647, “Request for Information,” “Notice of Action” and “Demand for Redelivery,” respectively, beginning in spring 2009. The new paperless process will allow importers with an Automated Commercial Environment Secure Data Portal account to interact faster and more efficiently with an import specialist to ensure goods are properly classified on the entry summary. Automating forms saves time Automating CBP Forms 28, 29 and 4647, the most commonly used CBP forms, will reduce the time and effort of import specialists to provide notification to a filer or request more documentation for roughly 260,000 entry summaries each year – five percent of entry summaries filed. The new automated forms capability is part of entry summary, accounts and revenue initial entry summary types capabilities, to be deployed beginning in spring 2009. These capabilities will enable consumption and informal entry processing, entry types 01 and 11, respectively, to be processed in ACE, the agency’s new commercial trade processing system. Streamlining procedures ensures efficiency “Automating these forms will reduce the amount of time it takes to request and receive additional information, resulting in a faster, more efficient process for entry summary filers and CBP import specialists,” said Lou Samenfink, executive director of the CBP Cargo Systems Program Office. Automating CBP Forms 28, 29 and 4647 facilitates CBP’s goal of streamlining the team review process. During team review, an import specialist uses these forms to interact with filers to ensure imported goods are recorded correctly, modify incorrect classification values or determine if the import complies with U.S. trademark regulations. Providing additional documentation is easier electronically Currently, import specialists examine the entry summary for potential inaccuracies, and if more documentation or action is required, paper forms are delivered to importers. Importers or their brokers return the requested information through a mail carrier service, prolonging the time it takes CBP to receive this information and making it difficult for filers to confirm that the information was received by CBP. With the new automated forms capability, import specialists will be able to send an electronic request for information to importers that have established ACE Secure Data Portal accounts. Importers will have the option of attaching an electronic file containing supplemental materials and using the ACE portal to track the status of their submissions, ensuring CBP has received the requested documentation. For more information on ACE, please visit the CBP Modernization Web site or send an e-mail to CBP.cbpcspo@dhs.gov. ( ACE: Modernization Information Systems ) `
Title: International Trade in European Eel (Anguilla anguilla)
On: 2009-03-13 15:36:07
NOTICE TO THE WILDLIFE IMPORT/EXPORT COMMUNITY More Info..
Title: New Proposal Would Exclude U.S. Parts from Dutiable Value of Foreign Repairs
On: 2009-03-12 16:38:20
Source Document 1... U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proposing to amend its regulations to exclude the value of U.S.-origin parts from the dutiable value of repairs, alterations or processing performed abroad on articles exported from the U.S. and returned under HTSUS 9802.00.40, 9802.00.50 or 9802.00.60. CBP wants to make this change to provide an incentive to use U.S. parts in such activities. Comments on the proposed rule are due by May 12. HTSUS 9802.00.40 and 9802.00.50 provide a partial duty exemption for articles returned to the U.S. after having been exported to be advanced in value or improved in condition by repairs or alterations. Subheading 9802.00.60 provides a partial duty exemption for articles of metal manufactured in the U.S. that are exported for further processing and then returned to the U.S. for further processing. Articles entitled to classification under these provisions are assessed duty based on the value of the work done abroad. The regulations implementing these subheadings (19 CFR 10.8 and 10.9) provide that the cost or value of foreign repairs, alterations or processing includes all domestic and foreign articles furnished for those activities. CBP states that this language was added by T.D. 72-119 but that neither this decision nor the proposed rule that preceded it included any explanation or discussion of the reason. In addition, there is nothing in the underlying statutory provisions that requires the value of U.S.-origin parts to be included in the dutiable value of articles entered under these tariff provisions.
Title: Mexican Holiday hours of operation
On: 2009-03-12 10:44:08
Mexico will observe Benito Juarez Day on Monday, March 16, 2009. We will have the same hours of operation as them, but with our Daylight Saving Time hours, which are presently one hour ahead of Mexican time, the hours will be as follows: PIN Aduana Tijuana - Juarez Day. Mexico EXPORT (US time) US NORTHBOUND 9:00 am - 3:00 pm LADEN 9:00 am – 4:00 pm EMPTY Mexico IMPORT (US time) US SOUTHBOUND 10:00 am – 1:00 pm LADEN 10:00 am – 6:00 pm EMPTY Cindy Larios PD's. Secretary Otay Mesa Cargo Facility (619) 671-8121 (619) 6613049 FAX
Title: CBP Calexico Port Information Notices CLX2009-022 & 023
On: 2009-03-11 13:39:52
PIN CLX2009-023 EasterWeek. PIN CLX2009-022 Benito Juarez Day.
Title: CSMS# 09-000118 - Correction made to ANSI X12 350 Customs Status Message for upcoming Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) deployment
On: 2009-03-10 14:08:43
Truck Manifest On January 16, 2009 CSMS message 09-000043 announced the posting of enhanced EDI messages for ACE e-Manifest: Trucks. Those updated ANSI X12 & UN/EDIFACT messages contain new requirements needed for truck carriers to comply with WHTI requirements that will be deployed in the near future. It is anticipated that ACE will support the new WHTI travel document requirements on April 11th and will send warnings to carriers that have not supplied data that is expected to become mandatory as of June 1, 2009. Today’s CSMS message is to inform software developers that a change was posted to the ANSI X12 350 message on March 6, 2009. Initially it was reported that that two new status messages (ST) “Driver account information needs to be updated with country of driver’s citizenship” and (SU) “Driver account information needs to be updated with an approved WHTI document” would be reported in the 350 X4 segment. This has been changed. These messages will be returned in the V9 segment instead of the X4 segment and will be reported as STV instead of ST and SUV instead of SU. The STV code will be generated when a driver’s citizenship is not recorded in the driver’s ACE account. This will occur even if citizenship is sent with the manifest but it does not exist in the ACE account. The driver’s ACE account must be updated either via the ACE Portal or an EDI MEDPID message. (active in April 2009) The SUV code will be generated when a driver’s compliant Western Hemisphere Travel Initiate (WHTI) document is not recorded in the driver’s ACE Account. This will occur even if a WHTI document is sent with the manifest but it does not exist in the driver’s ACE account. The driver’s ACE account must be updated either via the ACE Portal or an EDI MEDPID message. (active in April 2009) There is no change to the original UN/EDIFACT message posted January 16, 2009. Related CSMS No. 09-000043, 09-000085
Title: CSMS# 09-000119 - ACE e-Manifest: Truck enhancements deployed March 1st.
On: 2009-03-10 00:00:00
Truck Manifest The March 1st update enables carriers to amend a single shipment via the ACE Portal without requiring an amendment code to be posted for each shipment in the trip. Carriers should remember that if they file a manifest via EDI and update the same manifest via the ACE portal it is their responsibility to make sure equal changes are made in their own EDI system. The March 1st update enables a carrier to deactivate a driver’s relationship to the carrier by using the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) UN/EDIFACT “MEDPID” message. Carriers may do this when a driver no longer works for them.
Title: Tax Flash prepared by Deloitte B.C. related to transfer pricing for the 2008 tax report.
On: 2009-03-09 08:48:31
Tax Flash 07/2009 New obligations regarding information on transactions between related parties for the 2008 tax report Exhibits 16 and 16-A of the 2008 Omnibus Tax Ruling published on February 20, and March 2, 2009, respectively, include the new Statutory Tax Report Filing System (SIPRED) for the 2008 tax report. These new forms include unexpected and excessive information requests that the Registered Public Accountant (hereinafter, RPA) and/or the taxpayer must disclose in detail using Exhibits 5, 34, and 34.1, and the completion of a new Transfer Pricing Questionnaire on transactions entered into by the taxpayers with domestic or foreign related parties to determine compliance with the transfer pricing provisions of income tax (ISR) and business flat tax (IETU). The information requested will clearly result in a significant additional administrative burden within a very short time frame for both taxpayers and RPAs. You may find in the attached document the most significant implications related to the application of these fiscal matter. More Info.
Title: Notice regarding time change for Otay Mesa, Calexico and Tecate.
On: 2009-03-05 00:00:00
TECATE PIN TIME CHANGE. CALEXICO PIN TIME CHANGE. OTAY MESA PIN TIME CHANGE.
Title: Food Safety Reform Bill Includes New Fees, Importer Requirements
On: 2009-03-04 19:11:34
New legislation introduced in the Senate March 3 would overhaul federal efforts to ensure the safety of imported and domestic food. A joint press release from the bill’s Republican and Democratic sponsors states that the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act responds to recent outbreaks of food-borne illness and nationwide recalls of contaminated food from both foreign and domestic sources. The bill includes the following provisions. • increases funding for the FDA’s food safety activities through increased appropriations and targeted fees for domestic and foreign facilities • requires importers to verify the safety of foreign suppliers and imported food • allows the FDA to require certification for high-risk foods and to deny entry to foods that lack certification or that are from a foreign facility that has refused U.S. inspectors • increases FDA inspections at all food facilities, including annual inspections of high-risk facilities and inspections of other facilities at least once every four years • requires all facilities to have in place preventive plans to address identified hazards and prevent adulteration and gives the FDA access to these plans and relevant documentation • allows the FDA to enable qualified third parties to certify that foreign food facilities comply with U.S. food safety standards • requires a pilot project to test and evaluate new methods for rapidly and effectively tracking/tracing fruits and vegetables in the event of a food-borne illness outbreak • gives the FDA the authority to order a mandatory recall of a food product when a company fails to voluntarily recall the product upon the FDA’s request • empowers the FDA to suspend a food facility’s registration if there is a reasonable probability that food from that facility will cause serious adverse health consequences or death • directs the FDA to help food companies protect their products from intentional contamination and calls for a national strategy to protect the food supply from terrorist threats and rapidly respond to food emergencies
Title: Appropriations Bill Would Halt Mexican Trucking Program
On: 2009-03-03 00:00:00
The omnibus fiscal year 2009 appropriations bill approved by the House of Representatives last week includes a provision that would end a pilot project allowing Mexican long-haul trucks to operate within the U.S. However, domestic interests are urging President Obama not to let the project die. The pilot project allows up to 100 Mexico-domiciled motor carriers to operate beyond the border commercial zones and the same number of U.S. carriers to operate in Mexico. It was launched in September 2007 and extended last fall through September 2010. In 2007 Congress passed legislation aimed at ending the project, but the Department of Transportation pointed out that the bill only prohibited the “establishment” of such a program, not the continuation of the one already underway. As a result, the new language states that none of the funding made available by the bill “may be used, directly or indirectly, to establish, implement, continue, promote, or in any way permit a cross-border motor carrier demonstration program to allow Mexican-domiciled motor carriers to operate beyond the commercial zones along the international border between the United States and Mexico, including continuing, in whole or in part, any such program that was initiated prior to the date of the enactment of this Act.” A number of domestic agriculture and business organizations wrote to President Obama recently urging him to “resist all efforts to halt or impede” the Mexican truck project. The elimination of this project could prompt up to $2 billion in retaliation from Mexico, the letter warned, which is “a top export market for U.S. goods and services providing jobs to millions of U.S. workers.” The letter asserted that the participating Mexican carriers have excellent safety records and that the project lowers transportation costs and reduces congestion at the border.
