CBP: Withhold Release Order Issued on Giant Bicycles Over Forced Labor Concerns

A withhold release order has been announced requiring U.S. Customs and Border Protection to detain all bicycles, bicycle components, and related accessories produced by Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Beginning September 24, 2025, CBP officers at every U.S. port of entry…

BIS: U.S. Eases Export Rules for Civilian Goods to Syria Under New License Exception

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has introduced a new license exception, SPP (Syria Peace and Prosperity), allowing U.S.-origin goods, software, and technology with purely civilian applications (EAR99), consumer communications devices, and select civil aviation items to be exported…

ITC: Stainless Steel Trade Case Nears Final Stage as ITC Weighs Duty Decision

The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) has issued a final determination on corrosion-resistant steel, commonly known as stainless steel, and the case is now awaiting a decision from the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC). The ITC has 45 days to…

USMCA: Unlocking the Benefits of Other FTAs

Unlocking the Benefits of FTAs! With all of the changes happening in international trade, it’s important to know how free trade agreements (FTAs) work and how to use them correctly! In this webinar Star USA’s Michael D. Easton talks about…

BIS: U.S. Revokes License-Free Exports for Foreign Chip Fabs in China

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has moved to fully revoke license-free export privileges under the Validated End-User (VEU) program for semiconductor manufacturing in China. While the program was expanded in 2023 to permit select foreign chipmakers to receive…

DOF: Mexico Blocks Footwear in Maquiladoras and Plans Tariff Hikes on China

Mexico plans to exclude footwear from the Maquiladora program, adding the relevant tariff headings to the restricted list published in the Official Gazette. The Gazette now reflects all goods barred from Maquiladora treatment. Separately, the government is considering higher tariffs…

U.S. Security Agencies Warn Researchers of Foreign Efforts to Illegally Obtain Sensitive Technology

U.S. national security officials are alerting academic institutions and researchers to potential threats from foreign governments seeking to access sensitive research and export-controlled technologies. The advisory emphasizes caution around international collaborations and foreign talent programs, providing practical guidance to help…

Justice: $12.4M Settlement Reached After Quartz Importer Misrepresented Goods to Evade Duties

The U.S. Department of Justice announced a $12.4 million settlement to resolve allegations that an importer evaded customs duties on quartz surface products from China, commonly used for countertops and similar applications. According to the government, the company misrepresented the…

Department of State: 17 Individuals Debarred from ITAR-Regulated Activities, Compliance Vigilance Urged

The Department of State is reminding all parties subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to exercise heightened diligence in their export compliance programs. The Department emphasized the importance of ensuring that no regulated activities, directly or indirectly,…

EEI Filings: When, How, & Who’s Responsible

What to include, when they’re needed, and who does what? It’s easy for EEI to be a low priority for freight forwarders, shippers, and customs brokers, but you’re still responsible for filing it! In this webinar Michael D. Easton from…

HHS: U.S. Executive Order Mandates 6-Month Medication Stockpile

A recent executive order directs the stockpiling of six months’ worth of essential medications, aiming to bolster national security and enhance supply chain resiliency. While the measure addresses preparedness for potential crises, it may also help mitigate future impacts from…

USITC: Investigation Launched on 2028 Harmonized Tariff Schedule Changes to Align with Global Standards

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has launched an investigation titled Recommended Modifications in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, 2028. The inquiry aims to provide the President with recommendations for updating the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), ensuring…