Trade Compliance News

New Informed Compliance Publication on Rulings
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a new Informed Compliance Publication (ICP) on its rulings program. The ICP provides detailed information on the process of submitting ruling requests along with instructions on how to appeal rulings and request internal advice. Click HERE to view the ICP.


Lacey Act Primer
APHIS recently posted a revised version of the Lacey Act Primer that includes a list of best practices and declaration requirements. Click HERE to view the presentation. Information about the blanket declaration program and other FAQ’s are also posted on the APHIS web site.


ACLU Obtains CBP Border Search Documents
Pursuant to a request under the Freedom of Information Act by the ACLU, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provided documentation about its searches of electronic devices. The documents revealed that the current policy did not require CBP officials to justify the border search over 1,500 electronic devices. In addition to laptops, CBP detained or seized cell phones, digital cameras, flash drives and DVDs.

One the most significant observations is the number of transfers of electronic files to other agencies. The reports showed that electronic data belonging to travelers was transferred to other agencies almost 300 times and CBP made copies of the files in most of the transfers. This information should be a red flag for business travelers who maintain sensitive business information computers, cell phones, etc. CBP may transfer your data to other agencies without your written consent. If you are traveling overseas, you may want to consider removing any confidential information from your electronic equipment.

Click HERE for more detailed information about the documents received by the ACLU.


DHS Issues Report Card on CBP Cargo Targeting & Examination
The Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General recently issued a report evaluating CBP’s Automated Targeting System (ATS). DHS recommended two areas for improvement. First, CBP should improve documentation for inspections. In 57 out of 391 high-risk examinations, records did not contain enough information to support decisions to inspect or waive inspection of the cargo. DHS also recommended that CBP update the targeting guidelines, which largely rely on 1999 inspection procedures.

Click HERE to view the entire report.