Taking apart the brain of the HTS. The General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs) are the way we apply the Harmonized System (HS) to classify goods in international trade. This webinar delves into each GRI, providing a thorough understanding of each rule and its application. We’ll break down complex scenarios, offer tips for accurate classification, and help you navigate common pitfalls. By mastering the GRIs, you can ensure correct tariff classifications and enhance compliance with global trade regulations.
Trade News
DOJ: Federal Register Notice Outlines DOGE Workforce Cuts, Hiring Limits, and Potential Slowdowns
Here’s the Federal Register notice about how the DOGE Workforce Optimization Initiative is supposed to be initiated. I expect that most functions we work with will slow down. Each agency is allowed to hire no more than one person per…
DOJ: Ohio Company and Employees Charged for Illegally Exporting Aircraft Parts to Russia
An Ohio company and three of its employees (one Ohio, two Florida) are being charged with violations of export restrictions on Russia. They are part of an American subsidiary of a Russian aircraft parts supplier. In 2022 the company signed…
CBP: Updated Guidance on China Import Duties and De Minimis Exemptions
CBP has released updated guidance following the amended Executive Order on February 5, 2025, imposing additional duties on Chinese imports. The de minimis exemption remains available for certain articles under heading 9903.01.20 but is not retroactive. CBP will not refund…
DOJ: Dominican Authorities Seize Aircraft Linked to Sanctioned Venezuelan Company at U.S. Request
Dominican authorities, at the request of the U.S. government, have seized a Dassault Falcon 2000EX aircraft used by Venezuela’s state-owned oil company, PdVSA, for violating U.S. export and sanctions laws. The aircraft, which had been serviced and maintained with American-made…
Potential Mexican and Canadian Tariffs: Top-Line Insights & How Businesses Can Adapt
In the intricate realm of international trade, importers shoulder the responsibility of ensuring compliance with a plethora of regulations enforced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Central to this obligation is the concept of exercising “reasonable care.” Here I’ll explore the significance of reasonable care for importers, its role in import compliance, and strategies for implementation.
CBP: 30-Day Tariff Pause Delays Potential Trade Disruptions with Canada and Mexico
The U.S. has implemented a 30-day pause on proposed tariffs against Canada and Mexico, postponing the original February 4 deadline. The new deadline is now set for Thursday, March 6. The temporary delay offers additional time for negotiations and discussions…
CBP: Discovers 37 Live Beetles Smuggled in Snack Packages at LAX
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) uncovered an unusual contraband shipment last month-37 live beetles hidden inside packages of Japanese snacks, potato chips, and chocolate. The insects, valued at $1,480, were discovered…
CBP: Customs Broker License Exam Registration
U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced that the CBLE will open for registration on February 10 at 12:01am. Read More
CSMS: Issues Interim Final Rule on USMCA Implementation
U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR) that requests comments by the trade until March 18, 2025, when the rule comes into effect. This rule gives implementation guidance on USMCA, specifically around drawback, textiles, and automotive.…
CBP: Proposed Rule to Require Rail Export Manifests 24 Hours Before Departure
CBP published a notice of proposed rulemaking around submitting export manifest information to CBP for rail cargo leaving the US. Comments due by 3/14/2025. Currently EEIs for rail cargo must be filed 2 hours prior to the rail cargo leaving…
BIS: Haas Automation Inc. Fined $2.5M for Export Violations to Russia and China
Haas Automation has admitted to 41 violations of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) under a settlement agreement with the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). The violations stem from unauthorized sales of parts used to service previously sold Haas CNC…
CBP: New Proposed Rules for Duty-Free De Minimis Shipments Under $800
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is proposing a new process for low-value shipments to enhance security and improve targeting of high-risk items, such as illicit fentanyl. The proposed changes would also introduce additional data requirements to better verify eligibility…