TradeLane

In the fast-paced world of automotive manufacturing, every penny counts. For our client, a Canadian importer of metal brackets (classified under HS code 8302.30.90), a seemingly standard 6% import duty was putting a significant dent in their bottom line. However, a closer look revealed a hidden opportunity to leverage the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) end-use provision, leading to substantial duty savings and a significant boost in competitiveness.

The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) recently released a Memorandum outlining actions to be taken in response to the statutory 4-Year Review of the Section 301 Investigation of China’s Acts, Policies, and Practices Related to Technology Transfer, Intellectual Property, and Innovation (Section 301 Investigation).  The review looked at the effectiveness of eliminating China’s technology transfer-related acts, policies, and practices and the overall effects of the tariff actions on the U.S. economy. Based on this review, modifications to the actions have been proposed.

Are you a target this year?

Customs Audits……The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has released its compliance targets for 2024.

Since 1993, Reconciliation entries have been a pivotal tool for US importers to simply and expediently make changes to certain elements of an import entry. While some very, very limited classification and 9802 changes can be made using reconciliation filings, the vast majority of adjustments are for value changes after importation or retroactively claiming a free trade agreement like USMCA and 9802. 

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has proposed amendments to the method of assessing value for duty of imported goods. This would essentially change the Valuation for Duty Regulations. Depending on the importer’s business model, this could significantly impact duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST) payout.