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EC Analyzes Pending Economic and Trade Agreement with Canada

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:29:37 -0400

The European Commission has posted a report on the key sustainability issues that will be considered and methodologies that will be employed in conducting the Trade Sustainability Impact Assessment (SIA) of the EUCanada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The report includes an overview the negotiations to date, a description of the impact assessment, factors inhibiting trade between the EU and Canada, etc.

EU Official Journal Notices for Sept 3, 2010

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:26:37 -0400

In the September 3, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables.
Regulation amending the representative prices and additional import duties for certain products in the sugar sector fixed by Regulation (EC) No 877/2009 for the 2009/10 marketing year; and
Directive adapting for the first time the Annexes to Directive 2008/68/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the inland transport of dangerous goods to scientific and technical progress.

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:57:52 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

CV: Aluminum Extrusions from China

CBP Seeks Comments on Extension of FTA Information Collection

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:06:35 -0400

U.S. Customs and Border Protection seeks comments by November 8, 2010 on an extension of an existing information collection on Free Trade Agreements.These agreements involve collection of data elements such as information about the importer and exporter of the goods, a description of the goods, tariff classification number, and the preference criterion in the Rules of Origin.

MOFOM Reports on Need to Develop Chinese Brands for Export

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:21:35 -0400

China's Ministry of Commerce reports that China needs to raise the proportion of Chinese brands in its exports, to improve the nation's trade quality and efficiency. Chinese brands make up less than 10 percent of China's exports, said Fu Shuangjian, deputy director at the State Administration for Industry and Commerce (SAIC), at the 2010 China Trademark Annual Meeting, which kicked off September 1, 2010. The official noted that excluding overseas invested companies, less than 20 percent of Chinese exporters have registered trademarks in China, while less than 5 percent have registered trademarks abroad, said Fu.

USCC Posts Transcript from June 2010 Hearing on China and WTO

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:27:11 -0400

The U.S. China Economic and Security Review Commission has posted the transcript of its June 9, 2010 hearing on Evaluating China’s Past and Future Role in the World Trade Organization.

CAFC Rules on ITC Patent Infringement Cases

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:10:01 -0400

The Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has issued recent decisions on patent issues involving the International Trade Commission. The CAFC upheld the ITC on an "Orange Book" CD patent, ruling that the Phillips and Sony patents are enforceable. CAFC 2007-1386, dated 08/30/2010. The CAFC also issued two ruings on the patents for ground fault circuit interrupters. CAFC 2009-1338-1369, dated 08/27/2010 and CAFC 2009-1378-1387-1434, dated 08/27/2010.

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 14:32:40 -0400

The National Institute of Standards and Technology posts drafts and changes to foreign technical regulations for manufactured products which may be considered technical barriers to trade and are therefore required to be reported to the World Trade Organization, which distributes the information to WTO Member countries. Sign up for free NIST service here. Notifications for 09/03/10 include:

Chile: Electrical conductors - Type RV
Chile: Electrical conductors: type RV-K
Chile: Electrical conductors: type RZ1
Chile: Electrical conductors: type RZ1-K
Chile: Electrical conductors: type H07Z1-U
Chile: Electrical conductors: type H07Z1-R
Chile: Electrical conductors: type H07Z1-K
Ecuador: Ceramic products
Ecuador: Motor vehicles (HS 9900)
Ecuador: Cigarette lighters (HS 9613)
Ecuador: Bicycles (HS 8714)
Ecuador: Metal cable tray, electrical conduit
Ecuador: Three-wheeled motor vehicles (HS 8711, 8714)
France: Processing aids used in certain foods
Korea: IPTV Set-top box
Paraguay: Packaging that comes into contact with food
Taiwan Economy: Prepackaged products (HS Chapter 90)
Taiwan Economy: Prepackaged goods (HS Chapter 90)
Trinidad and Tobago: Low-pressure, non adjustable regulators having a maximum outlet pressure of less than or equal to 200 mbar, with a capacity of less than or equal to 4 kg/h, and their associated safety devices for butane, propane or their mixtures
Trinidad and Tobago: Deformed and plain carbon-steel bars for concrete reinforcements
Trinidad and Tobago: Low-alloy steel deformed and plain bars for concrete reinforcement
Trinidad and Tobago: Hardened steel nails
Trinidad and Tobago: Toys
Trinidad and Tobago: Domestic electrical appliances (2nd Revision)

U.S. and Indian Officials Discuss Ways to Advance WTO Doha Round

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:07:41 -0400

The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi reports that a team of U.S. government officials was in India from August 30 to September 1, 2010 to discuss ways forward in the Doha negotiation round of the World Trade Organization.

CBP Update on SW Border Fence Construction Progress

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:23:47 -0400

CBP has posted an update on the progress of the southwest border fence construction. According to CBP, as of August 20, 2010, CBP has completed roughly 649.1 miles of fencing (350.3 miles of primary pedestrian fence and 298.8 miles of vehicle fence) along the Southwest Border.

ITA Announces Education Trade Mission to Indonesia, Vietnam

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:30:11 -0400

The International Trade Administration's U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service is organizing an education trade mission to Indonesia and Vietnam, April 3-8, 2011.

17 Indicted for Conspiracy to Illegally Import AD Chinese Honey

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:54:27 -0400

The Justice Department announced on September 1, 2010 that 11 individuals and six corporations were indicted on September 1, 2010 on federal charges for allegedly participating in an international conspiracy to illegally import honey from China. The honey was mislabeled as coming from other countries to avoid anti-dumping duties, and included honey that was adulterated with antibiotics not approved for use in honey production, federal law enforcement officials said. The charges resulted from a large-scale investigation being conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Additional press release available here.

AMS Implements New Procedures for Organic Program Complaints

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:24:03 -0400

The Agricultural Marketing Service has implemented new operating procedures for the National Organic Program to ensure that complaints of alleged violations and civil penalties are consistently handled. AMS states that complaints of alleged standards violations were previously referred to accredited certifying agents for investigation and enforcement. With these new procedures, the NOP will collaborate with accredited certifying agents in investigating cases while handling all enforcement actions. AMS states that this change will improve the effectiveness of its NOP enforcement efforts.

List of Trade Related Notices from Mexico's Sept 2 Diario

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:03:09 -0400

Mexico's Diarios Oficial of September 2, 2010 lists notices from the Secretary of the Economy as follows:

Clarification of Preliminary Resolution of the antidumping investigation on imports of seamless steel pipe, originating in China, regardless of country of origin. This commodity is classified in the tariff 7304.19.02, 7304.19.99, 7304.39.06 and 7304.39.99
Declaration of Effectiveness of the Mexican Standard NMX-C-137-2010-ONNCCE
Declaration of Effectiveness of the Mexican Standard NMX-N-107-SCFI-2010
Declaration of Effectiveness of the Mexican Standard NMX-U-041-SCFI-2010
Notice of public consultation of the Draft Standard PROY-NMX-N-067-SCFI-2010

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:04:19 -0400

An overview of a number of recent antidumping and countervailing duty messages posted to CBP's Web site, along with the case number(s), period covered, and CBP message number, is provided below. (Note that the complete message is only available at http://addcvd.cbp.gov.)

Preliminary Injunction on Certain Frozen Warmwater Shrimp for NHAT DUC Co., Ltd., from The Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the Period, 02/01/2008 through 1/31/2009 Message No.: 0243303
Liquidation Instructions for Certain Frozen Warmwater Shrimp from China Exported by Shantou Yuexing Enterprise Company for the Period 02/01/2008 through 01/31/2009 (A-587-893-027) Message No.: 0243301
Liquidation Instructions for Certain Corrosion Resistant Carbon Steel Flat Products from Canada for Period 08/01/2004 through 07/31/2005 (A470-108) Message No.: 0243302

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:06:32 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

99-08: Processed Foods for Pesticides (09/01/10)
99-05: Raw Agricultural Products for Pesticides (09/01/10)
66-41: Unapproved New Drugs Promoted in The U.S. (09/01/10)
45-02: Foods Containing Illegal and/or Undeclared Colors (09/01/10)
16-04: Misbranded Seafood (09/01/10)

FSIS Updates List of Chile and Honduras Firms That Export Meat & Poultry to U.S.

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:10:02 -0400

The Food Safety and Inspection Service has issued updated versions of its list of Chile (September 1, 2010) and Honduras (August 31, 2010) firms eligible to export meat and poultry to the U.S.

CBP Updates its TRQ/TPL Threshold to Fill List

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:59:02 -0400

CBP has posted an updated version of its TRQ/TPL "threshold to fill" list, a quick reference to monitor TRQs and TPLs that are approaching their restraint limit or have filled their in-quota (low) rate. The list is divided into two sections: those that are at least 85% filled and those that are filled.

WTO Reports Trade Value Still Up in First Half of 2010

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:43:12 -0400

The World Trade Organization reports that the value of world merchandise trade rose around 25% in the first six months of 2010 up strongly from the same period of 2009. This surge in trade growth marks a continuation of the trend begun in the first quarter of the year, according to WTO figures released on September 1, 2010.

CBP Updates List of NVOCC Participants in Sea AMS

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 09:28:28 -0400

CBP has posted an updated list of non-vessel operating common carrier sea Automated Manifest System (AMS) participants.

BIS Updates Certain CFR Legal Citations on Export Control Regs

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:45:34 -0400

The Bureau of Industry and Security has issued a final rule, effective September 2, 2010, which updates the CFR legal authority citations for the Export Administration Regulations to include the citation to the President's Notice of August 12, 2010 - Continuation of Emergency Regarding Export Control Regulations.

DEA Exempts 21 Additional Chemical Mixtures from CSA

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:45:01 -0400

The Drug Enforcement Administration has issued a direct final rule which will update the Table of Exempt Chemical Mixtures in response to DEA’s review of new applications for exemption, in order to add 21 chemical mixtures to the list of those exempted from the application of certain provisions of the Controlled Substances Act. This rule is effective November 1, 2010, unless adverse comment is received by October 4, 2010, which may suspend the effectiveness of the order until the Administrator has reconsidered the application in light of the comments and objections filed.

ICE Seizes $389K Worth of Counterfeit Items at South Florida Flea Markets

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:57:27 -0400

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement reported on August 30, 2010, that more than $389,000 worth of counterfeit merchandise was seized by special agents with the ICE Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) during a two-day enforcement operation targeting flea markets in the Miami area that were suspected of selling counterfeit trademarked goods. The sweep, part of "Operation Fire Sale," resulted in seizing 28,474 individual items, including counterfeit Adidas shirts and shorts, DVDs, CDs, and knock-off sunglasses by Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Christian Dior. Authorities estimate the collective value of the merchandise seized during the operation to be about $389,710, based upon the items' suggested retail price if they were legitimate. The largest cache of counterfeits, estimated to be worth nearly $204,000, was CDs confiscated during an Aug. 23 search by ICE special agents at the Homestead Bargain Town Flea Market.

TTB Guidance on Destruction of Wine and/or Wine Spirits Without Payment of Tax

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:07:34 -0400

On August 27, 2010, the Alcohol and Tobacco and Tax and Trade Bureau posted guidance on the destruction of unpaid wine and/or spirits. The guidance is in the form of a new Wine FAQ (No. 26) that asks the question: "I have untaxpaid wine and/or wine spirits that I would like to destroy. How do I receive approval for the destruction of wine or wine spirits without payment of tax?"

FSIS Announces Meeting on Codex Food Hygiene Committee

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:22:32 -0400

The Food Safety and Inspection Service is announcing a November 2, 2010 meeting on the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene to be held in Washington, D.C. The Call in Number is 1-866-692-3158, and the passcode is 5986642. Delegates to Codex committees schedule public meetings prior to their committee meetings to inform the public about the meeting agenda and proposed U.S. positions on the issues. During these public meetings delegates also receive comments from interested parties on Codex issues.

U.N. Security Council Updates LIst of Congo Persons Subject to Travel Ban

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:08:07 -0400

The United Nations Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1533 (2004) concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has made available its August 13, 2010 updated list of individuals and entities subject to the travel ban and assets freeze imposed by paragraphs 13 and 15 of resolution 1596 (2005) as renewed by paragraph 3 of resolution 1896 (2009).

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recall

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 17:05:27 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recall:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
Swing sets: Fall Hazard	Kompan Inc. (WA) (from January 1998 through December 2003); and BigToys Inc. (WA) (from January 2004 through December 2008).	10-755

FAA Sends Pilot Flight Time Proposed Rule to OMB for Approval

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:01:59 -0400

The Federal Aviation Administration has submitted to the Office of Management and Budget a proposed rule that would establish one set of flight time limitations, duty period limits, and rest requirements for pilots. The rulemaking is necessary to ensure that pilots have the opportunity to obtain sufficient rest to perform their duties. The objective of the rule is to contribute to and to improve aviation safety.

DHS OIG Report on CBP FY 2009 Information Technology Management

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:51:35 -0400

The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General has issued a report containing an independent audit conducted by KPMG LLP that provides observations and recommendations related to U.S. Customs and Border Protection's information technology management for FY 2009.

CBP Border Patrol Weekly Blotter for August 26-Sept 1

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 19:53:35 -0400

CBP has posted the U.S. Border Patrol Weekly Blotter for August 26 - September 1, 2010. The Blotter provides information on Border Patrol activities during the specified week.

NAM Comes Out in Favor of President's Implementation of Export Control Reform

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:34:24 -0400

The National Association of Manufacturers has issued a statement in support of the President's announcement via videotape to the Bureau of Industry and Security’s Annual Export Controls Update Conference on the Administration’s first steps toward implementation of export control reform.

EU Official Journal Notices for August 31, 2010

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:47:22 -0400

In the August 31, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables; and
Commission Decision on imports into the Union of semen, ova and embryos of animals of the equine species as regards lists of semen collection and storage centers and embryo collection and production teams and certification requirements;
Regulation on uniform provisions concerning the measures to be taken against the emission of gaseous and particulate pollutants from compression-ignition engines for use in vehicles, and the emission of gaseous pollutants from positive-ignition engines fueled with natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas for use in vehicles;
Regulation on uniform provisions concerning the approval of vehicles intended for the carriage of dangerous goods with regard to their specific constructional features.

FTZ Board Actions and Notices

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 08:41:29 -0400

The Foreign Trade Zones Board has issued the following notices:

FTZ 104 – Applications for Reorganization under Alternative Site Framework: Foreign Trade Zone 104; Savannah, GA
FTZ 22 – Approval for Manufacturing Authority: Foreign Trade Zone 22; Chicago, IL

UN Press Conference by Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Review

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:18:08 -0400

The Chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) stated on August 30, 2010 that a newly-released review of Panel working methods could strengthen its efforts, as well as its public credibility, while stressing that the overall conclusions of its assessments were not in doubt. “Science has confirmed that climate change is real,” Rajendra Pachauri stated immediately following the release of a report by the InterAcademy Council, "Climate Change Assessments: Review of the Processes and Procedures of the IPCC,” the seventh this year on various aspects of climate science. The governments that form the IPCC would carefully review the InterAcademy Council recommendations at a plenary in October, Pachauri said, emphasizing that those Governments would decide on what actions to take.

Canada and Costa Rica to Enhance Free Trade Agreement

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:38:19 -0400

Canada's Minister of International Trade Van Loan announced on August 28, 2010 that Canada and Costa Rica have agreed to work toward modernizing their existing bilateral free trade agreement. Minister Van Loan made the announcement following his meeting with the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Minister, Anabel Gonzalez. An updated free trade agreement could lower tariffs on goods and remove trade barriers in a broad range of sectors. It could also expand market access for cross-border trade in services, financial services, electronic commerce, telecommunications and investment, as well as secure access to the government procurement market.

FMCSA Submits Final Rule to OMB on Banning Text Messaging by CMV Drivers

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:56:47 -0400

On August 27, 2010, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration submitted a final rule to the Office of Management and Budget entitled: "Drivers of Commercial Motor Vehicles: Limiting the Use of Wireless Communication Devices." FMCSA states that this rulemaking would ban text messaging while operating a commercial motor vehicle. This rulemaking is in response to FMCSA-sponsored studies that analyzed safety incidents and distracted drivers. This rulemaking would also address the National Transportation Safety Board´s "Most Wanted List" of safety recommendations.

APHIS Adds New FAQ on "Importer of Record" and CHB Responsibilty for Paper Lacey Declarations

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:59:54 -0400

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has added a new question and answer under "Filing a Declaration" to its Lacey Act Amendment FAQ regarding the responsibilities of Importers of Record and customs brokers for paper Lacey Act declarations, as follows:

9. Who is responsible for signing the paper Declaration form?

The Importer of Record is responsible for completing the declaration form, signing it, and submitting it to APHIS. A Customs Broker can sign the Declaration form only if they have Power of Attorney for the Importer of Record; however, in doing so they take upon themselves the legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information.

(Note that the source document still has an April 2010 date. Also note that the full FAQ, rather than just the "filing a declaration" section, is expected to be updated for the new question and answer.)

USDA Issues Revised 2010 Dairy TRQ Appendices

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 09:09:12 -0400

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has issued a final rule, effective September 1, 2010, which sets forth the revised appendices to the Dairy Tariff-Rate Import Quota Licensing Regulation for the 2010 quota year reflecting the cumulative annual transfers from Appendix 1 to Appendix 2 for certain dairy product import licenses permanently surrendered by licensees or revoked by the Licensing Authority.

CPSC Sends Proposed Info Collection to OMB on Lighter Standard

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:49:22 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is submitting a proposed information collection to the Office of Management and Budget for review on the Safety Standard for Multi-Purpose Lighters and certain testing, reporting, record keeping, and certification requirements associated with the standard. Comments are due on approximately October 1, 2010.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recalls

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:52:57 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recalls:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
Slow Cookers: Fire Hazard	Sensio Inc. (Montreal, Quebec, Canada)	10-328
Sharp 32-inch LCD-TVs: Risk of Injury	Sharp Electronics Corporation (NJ)	10-329

Correction: FMCSA Submits Final Rule to OMB on Banning Texting by CMV Drivers

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:18:55 -0400

Commerce Says Net Exports Down, Trade Deficit Up in Second Quarter 2010

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:26:50 -0400

In its statement on adjusting the estimated Gross Domestic Product to 1.6 percent for the second quarter of 2010, the Commerce Department noted that the downward revision reflected a wider trade deficit and lower inventories, as well as surprisingly large swings in net exports late in the quarter. Commerce also stated that American consumers disposable net income increased at more than a 4 percent annual rate, while business investments in equipment and software grew at more than a 20 percent annual rate for the second straight quarter.

May 2010 COAC Meeting Minutes

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:03:29 -0400

CBP has posted the minutes from the May 11, 2010 COAC meeting that was held in Philadelphia. Topics discussed at the meeting include trade facilitation, 10+2, global supply chain security, bonds, intellectual property rights, ACE, etc. (See ITT's Online Archives or 05/13/10 news, 10051314, for BP summary providing an overview of topics discussed at the meeting.)

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:44:06 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued a notice on:

AD/CV: Initiation of Administrative Reviews

EU-China Intellectual Property Group Meets

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:03:03 -0400

The European Commission has posted the minutes from the seventh meeting of the EU-China Intellectual Property Working Group that took place on June 24, 2010 in China. The EU and China discussed issues related to patents, including enforcement aspects, patent applications and grants, etc.

EU Official Journal Notices for August 28, 2010

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:14:41 -0400

In the August 28, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables; and
Regulation amending the representative prices and additional import duties for certain products in the sugar sector fixed by Regulation (EC) No 877/2009 for the 2009/10 marketing year.

EC Opens Antitrust Probe Into Marine Insurance Agreements

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:40:49 -0400

The European Commission has opened formal proceedings to investigate whether certain provisions accompanying claim-sharing and joint-reinsurance agreements in the marine insurance sector might infringe European Union antitrust rules. The EC states that provisions in the agreements between the Protection & Indemnity Clubs (P&I Clubs) within the International Group of P&I Clubs (IG) may harm ship owners and the insurers that are not members of the IG.

NIST to Terminate NVLAP Testing Lab Accreditation Program

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:45:04 -0400

The National Institute of Standards and Technology announces that it intends to terminate, effective September 30, 2010, the Commercial Products Testing Laboratory Accreditation Program offered by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP), which includes the following areas of testing: paints and related coatings, paper and related products, building seals and sealants, plastics, plumbing, roofing, and mattresses.

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:06:55 -0400

Sweden: Construction products
Sweden: Construction products

New Executive Order Expands North Korean Sanctions

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:36:01 -0400

The Treasury Department announces that the President has issued an Executive Order, which supplements EO 13382 and expands the scope of the national emergency declared in EO 13466 with respect to certain Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) sanctions. The new EO directs the Secretaries of the Treasury and State to target for sanctions individuals and entities facilitating North Korean trafficking in arms and related material; procurement of luxury goods; and engagement in illicit economic activities, such as money laundering, the counterfeiting of goods and currency, bulk cash smuggling and narcotics trafficking.

CBP's Weekly TRQ/TPL Commodity Report as of August 30

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:31:39 -0400

CBP has issued its weekly tariff rate quota and tariff preference level commodity report as of August 30, 2010. This report includes TRQs on various products such as beef, sugar, dairy products, peanuts, cotton, cocoa products, and tobacco; and certain BFTA, DR-CAFTA, Israel FTA, JFTA, MFTA, OFTA, SFTA, UAFTA (AFTA) and UCFTA (Chile FTA) non-textile TRQs; etc. Each report also includes the AGOA, ATPDEA, BFTA, DR-CAFTA, CBTPA, Haitian HOPE, MFTA, NAFTA, OFTA, SFTA, and UCFTA TPLs and TRQs for qualifying textile articles and/or other articles; the TRQs on worsted wool fabrics; etc.

Treasury, State Block 5 North Korean Entities, 3 Individuals Under WMD EO

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:39:22 -0400

In joint actions, the Departments of Treasury and State haveannounced the designations of five North Korean entities and three individuals under Executive Order13382 for supporting North Korea's Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) program, which freezesthe assets of WMD proliferators and their supporters and isolates them from the U.S. financial and commercial systems.

DDTC Includes Anti-Tamper Technology for Possible Special Documentation

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:56:56 -0400

The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls has revised its notice on special documentation requirements for export licenses pertaining to low observable/counter low observable technology to include anti-tamper technology. The notice now states that companies whose export licenses deal with LO/CLO and/or anti-tamper technology may be contacted by Defense Department officials with regard to clarifying special support documentation requirements for license requests. Companies should follow the guidance provided and ensure their submissions contain this additional information.

ITC Investigation Notices

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:17:28 -0400

The International Trade Commission has issued a notice on:

Certain Liquid Crystal Display Devices and Products Interoperable with the Same

Representatives Ask President to Enforce Recently Enacted Iran Sanctions Act

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:41:02 -0400

On August 19, 2010, Representatives Kirk (R) and Klein (D) sent a letter to the President asking him to enforce the recently enacted Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010. In their letter, the Representatives express concern about firms, like Russia’s LUKOIL, who reportedly continue to supply Iran with refined petroleum products. The letter asks the President to enforce CISADA and hold companies like LUKOIL accountable without delay.

ITA Announces Export Council Meeting on NEI

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:13:54 -0400

The International Trade Administration announces that the President’s Export Council will hold a meeting on September 16, 2010 to discuss topics related to the National Export Initiative, and advice from the President’s Export Council as to how to promote U.S. exports, jobs, and growth.

Export.Gov Announces U.S.-Sri Lanka Conference for Oct 2010

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:11:14 -0400

The governments of Sri Lanka and the United States are announcing a Private-Public Partnership Conference on the margins of the U. S. – Sri Lanka Trade & Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) talks that will occur on October 14. The conference will be held on October 12 – 14, 2010 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Attendees will be able to meet senior Sri Lankan trade officials and prospective investment partners on a one-to-one basis.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:05:16 -0400

Correction of Message 0232305 Dated 08/20/2010 Concerning Polyethylene Retail Carrier Bags from Thailand (A-549-821-001) Message No.: 0237302
Correction of Message 0207301 Dated 07/26/2010 of Certain Steel Nails from The People’s Republic of China (A-570-909) Message No.: 0237301

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:27:19 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

89-08: Class III Devices Without Approved PMA's or IDE's and Other Devices (08/26/10)
86-07: Non-Prescription Sunglasses (08/26/10)
76-01: Surgical Instruments (08/26/10)
16-129: Seafood Products Due to Nitrofurans (08/27/10)
16-81: Seafood Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella (08/27/10)
16-39: Processed Seafood and Analogue Seafood (Surimi) Products for Listeria Monocytogenes (08/27/10)

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:12:42 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

CPSC Announces Sept 1 Closed Compliance Meeting

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:16:35 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a closed meeting on September 1, 2010, in which the staff will brief the Commission on various compliance matters.

APHIS to Issue Import Permits for Mangos from Pakistan

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:15:03 -0400

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is advising the public of its decision to begin issuing permits for the importation into the continental U.S. of fresh mango fruit from Pakistan, effective August 27, 2010, based on the findings of a pest risk analysis.

China to Hold Import Forum in September

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 10:53:07 -0400

China's Ministry of Commerce reports that it will host the China Import Forum 2010 on September 6, 2010. The theme of the Forum is "Opening Market and Global Trade." It will focus on comprehensive introductions to the Chinese market and its relevant import policies, and enhancing communications and exchanges among governments, industries and companies.

MCC Publishes FY 2011 Assistance Candidates Report

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:22:00 -0400

The Millennium Challenge Corporation has publish a report that identifies countries that are “candidate countries” for Millennium Challenge Account assistance during fiscal year 2011.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:21:34 -0400

Preliminary Injunction on Certain Frozen Warmwater Shrimp for The Liberty Group from India for the Period, 02/01/2008 through 01/31/2009, (A-533840), Court Number 10-00231 Message No.: 0236311
Correction of Message 0216304 Dated 08/04/2010 of Folding Metal Tables and Chairs from The People’s Republic of China Message No.: 0236309
Non-Review Liquidation Instruction for Certain Color Television Receivers from China Message No.: 0236307
Notification of Rescission of Administrative Review of Antidumping Duty Order of Brass Sheet and Strip from Germany (A-428-602) (03/01/2009 to 02/28/2010) Message No.: 0236306
Antidumping Duty Order in the Investigation of Certain Woven Electric Blankets from The People’s Republic of China (A-570-951) Message No.: 0236303
Scope Ruling on Antidumping Duty Order on Certain Artist Canvas from The People’s Republic of China (A-570-899) Message No.: 0236302
Cash Deposit Instructions for Solid Urea from The Russian Federation (A-462-101) Message No.: 0236305

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:23:43 -0400

China: Pharmaceutical products
Thailand: Multifunction peripherals (HS 8471)

APHIS Canadian Border Agricultural Clearance PPQ Manual Updated

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:26:17 -0400

On August 25, 2010, APHIS updated its Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Canadian Border Agricultural Clearance Manual. This Manual serves as a guide for authorized Federal officers at ports of entry along the Canadian Border.

ITC Announces Final Injury Determinations on China, Mexico Magnesia Bricks

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 17:25:01 -0400

The International Trade Commission announces its determination that a U.S. industry is materially injured or threatened with material injury by reason of imports of certain magnesia carbon bricks from China and Mexico. As a result, the International Trade Administration will issue a countervailing duty order on imports of these products from China and antidumping duty orders on imports of these products from China and Mexico.

EU Official Journal Notices for August 26, 2010

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 17:54:14 -0400

In the August 26, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notice was posted:

Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables.

Trade Ministers from S. Korea, ASEAN to Meet on Free Trade

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 07:56:42 -0400

The American Chamber of Commerce in Korea reports that trade ministers from South Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will hold a two-day meeting in Vietnam to discuss how to better implement their free trade accord during the week of August 25, 2010.

Foreign Trade Zone Board Actions and Notices

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:16:25 -0400

The Foreign Trade Zone Board has issued the following notice:

FTZ 176 – Reorganization Under Alternative Site Framework: Foreign Trade Zone 176; Rockford, IL

FDA Bars Individual from Importing Food Into U.S. for 15 Years

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:45:27 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration is issuing an order under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, effective August 26, 2010, debarring Su Van Ho for a period of 15 years from importing articles of food or offering such articles for importation into the U.S., based on a finding that Mr. Ho was convicted of three felonies under Federal law for conduct relating to the importation into the U.S. of an article of food.

Colombia Proposes to Extend Certain Archaeological Import Restrictions

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:20:54 -0400

The State Department announces that the Government of the Republic of Colombia has informed the U.S. Government of its interest in an extension of the Agreement Concerning the Imposition of Import Restrictions on Archaeological Material from the Pre-Columbian Cultures and Certain Ecclesiastical Material from the Colonial Period of Colombia.

CBP Updates 19 CFR Pursuant to Periodic Review

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:20:14 -0400

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has issued a final rule, effective August 26, 2010, which amends various sections of 19 CFR to correct discrepancies, pursuant to its periodic review of its regulations, including the redesignation of paragraphs, the amendments of various references, updating outdated language, etc.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recall

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:37:12 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recall:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
Flat screen television wall mounts: Injury Hazard	Milestone AV Technologies LLC (MN)	10-326

FMC Orders Civil Penalties Against 7 Household Goods Moving Companies, Etc.

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:54:12 -0400

The Federal Maritime Commission has posted the administrative law judge's (ALJ's) initial decision and order containing civil penalties and cease and desist orders against seven household goods moving companies and six individuals for violating sections 8 and 19 of the 1984 Shipping Act . (See ITT's Online Archives or 01/24/06 news, 06012415, for BP summary of the intiation of this investigation.)

CBP Updates List of NVOCC Participants in Sea AMS

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 10:01:44 -0400

CBP has posted an updated list of non-vessel operating common carrier sea Automated Manifest System (AMS) participants.

CBP Updates TSN Leadership Matrix

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 10:01:59 -0400

CBP has posted an updated version of its Trade Support Network Leadership matrix, which lists all of the TSN committees and subcommittees with the Trade and CBP/Gov Co-Chairs and the ACE Support Team (AST) Business Leads. The matrix also includes a list of the current TSN Trade Ambassadors.

MOFCOM Issues July 2010 Import and Export Statistics

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 09:40:24 -0400

China's Ministry of Commerce issued a brief overview of its import & export statistics on August 23, 2010. In the first 7 months of 2010, the total value of China’s import and export amounted to US$1617.05 billion, up by 40.9% year on year, among which, the export value rose by 35.6% to US$850.49 billion while the import value rose by 47.2% to US$766.56 billion. In July, the total value of China’s exports and imports reached US$262.31 billion, by 30.8% year on year. The export value rose by 38.1% to US$145.52 billion while the import value rose by 22.7% to US$116.79 billion.

Russia May Ban U.S. Poultry Imports after Egg Salmonella Outbreak

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:12:12 -0400

According to the Russian International News Agency (RIA Novosti), the Russian consumer rights watchdog may ban U.S. poultry imports after half a billion U.S. eggs were recalled amid a salmonella outbreak, the service's chief announced. The chief said the outbreak justified the sanctions Russia earlier imposed on chlorine-treated poultry imports from the U.S. and called on the U.S. government to provide more information.

Russia banned imports of U.S. poultry on January 1, 2010 citing new safety requirements. The ban has since been lifted on poultry imports from 72 U.S. companies, but retained on a remaining 15 companies that do not meet the country's safety requirements.

APHIS Finalizes Fruit/Vegetable Phytosanitary Cold Treatment Regs

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:29:09 -0400

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has issued a final rule, with changes, an interim rule that amended the phytosanitary treatment regulations for cold treatment enclosures and procedures, including regulations for precooling temperatures and temperature recording devices, for treating fruits, vegetables, and other articles to prevent the introduction or dissemination of plant pests or noxious weeds into or through the U.S.

IPPC Asks for Member Comments on Draft ISPMs on Pests in Air Containers, Etc.

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:10:40 -0400

The International Plant Protection Convention is requesting that members submit comments by September 13, 2010 on the following draft ISPMs that were approved by the Standards Committee:

Minimizing Pest Movement by Air Containers and Aircraft
Systems for Authorizing Phytosanitary Activities
Safe Handling and Disposal of Waste with potential Pest Risk generated during International Voyages

FMC Orders Investigation, Hearing Regarding China NVOCC Misclassification, Etc.

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:23:49 -0400

The Federal Maritime Commission has ordered an investigation and hearing to determine whether Sinicway International Logistics Ltd., a China-based non-vessel-operating common carrier (NVOCC), violated the Shipping Act of 1984 by providing service other than at published rates, charges, and classifications and/or obtaining transportation at less than the rates and charges otherwise applicable by an unjust or unfair device or means; and whether penalties, suspension, or a cease and desist order should be imposed.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:43:08 -0400

Automatic Liquidation Instructions for Certain Helical Spring Lock Washers from Taiwan for the Period 06/01/2009 through 05/31/2010 (A-583-820) Message No.: 0232306
Liq Instrs-Polyethylene Retail Carrier Bags from Thailand Produced & Exported by Thai Plastic Bags Industries Co., Ltd., Winner’s Pack Co., Ltd., APEC Film Ltd Message No.: 0232305
Cash Deposit Instructions for Polyethylene Retail Carrier Bags from Thailand Pursuant to Final Results in Section 129 Determination (A-549-821-000) (04/01/2002 to 03/31/2003) Message No.: 0232303

Revised FDA Import Alert

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:45:01 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alert on the detention without physical examination of:

16-05: Mahimahi Because of Histamine and Decomposition

APHIS Miscellaneous and Processed Products PPQ Manual Updated

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:48:10 -0400

On August 23, 2010, APHIS updated its Miscellaneous and Processed Products PPQ Manual. The manual is used for regulating imported items that are processed and are not intended for propagation.

FSIS Updates Instructions and U.S. Plants for Exporting Meat and Poultry

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:50:41 -0400

FSIS has provided updated information for the export of U.S. meat and poultry to the following country:

Mexico (Revised August 24, 2010)

Treasury Blocks al-Qai'da Finance Leader Under Terrorism EO

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 17:10:23 -0400

The Treasury Department has further targeted the financial network of al-Qai'da by designating Muhammad Abdallah Hasan Abu-al-Khayr, a key leader of the terrorist organization's finance section, pursuant to Executive Order 13224, which freezes any assets al-Khayr has under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibits U.S. persons from engaging in any transactions with him.

FHWA Posts FY 2009 Surface Transportation Report

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:03:58 -0400

The Federal Highway Administration has posted the fiscal year 2009 Surface Transportation Environment and Planning Cooperative Research Program (STEP) Annual Report. STEP is a federally administered research effort to help improve the understanding of the relationship between surface transportation, planning, and the environment. Highlights of the report are available here.

CBP Posts Exchange Rate Multipliers for Week Ending August 20

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:18:37 -0400

CBP has posted the weekly foreign currency exchange rate multipliers for the week ending August 20, 2010.

Registration for C-TPAT Northern Border Highway Conference Closes August 27

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 09:38:00 -0400

CBP has announced that registration for the second annual Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism Northern Border Highway Carrier Conference that will be held in Niagara Falls, NY on August 31 – September 1, 2010 will be closing at 12:00 p.m. on August 27.

(See ITT's Online Archives or 06/17/10 news, 10061787, for BP summary announcing that registration was open for the conference.)

AMS Interim Rule Extends Use of Methionine in Organic Poultry

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:58:34 -0400

The Agricultural Marketing Service has issued an interim rule, effective October 1, 2010, which amends the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances by revising the annotation of methionine to extend its use in organic poultry production until October 1, 2012, at the following maximum levels of synthetic methionine per ton of feed: laying chickens - 4 pounds; broiler chickens – 5 pounds; turkeys and all other poultry - 6 pounds. Comments are due by October 25, 2010.

PHMSA Proposes HMR Amendments to Align With International Standards

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:58:57 -0400

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration has issued a proposed rule to amend the Hazardous Materials Regulations to maintain alignment with international standards by incorporating various amendments, including changes to proper shipping names, hazard classes, packing groups, special provisions, packaging authorizations, air transport quantity limitations, and vessel stowage requirements. Comments are due by October 25, 2010.

CIT Rules Certain Watch Boxes Are Duty-Free Packing Containers, Not HTS 4202

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:18:08 -0400

In Citizen Watch Co. of America, Inc. v. U.S, the Court of International Trade ruled that certain imported cardboard watch boxes entered separately should be classified as “other packing containers” under HTS 4819.50.40 (duty-free), instead of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s classification as “jewelry boxes and similar containers” under HTS 4202.99.90 (20% duty). The CIT considered a Customs ruling (HQ 951028) and the “Jewelpak II” factors in reaching its decision.

Counterfeit Jeans Seized During Joint Operation between CBP, ICE, LAPD

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:50:23 -0400

CBP officers at the Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport discovered merchandise which led to a joint operation between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and Los Angeles Police Department detectives, who on August 17, 2010, seized counterfeit “True Religion” jeans with a manufacturer’s suggested retail value of more than $6.2 million.

CBP Message on AD and CV Duty Actions

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 15:02:16 -0400

An overview of a recent antidumping and countervailing duty message posted to CBP's Web site, along with the case number, period covered, and CBP message number, is provided below. (Note that the complete message is only available at http://addcvd.cbp.gov.)

Cash Deposit Instructions for Certain Orange Juice from Brazil (A-351840-000/001/005) (03/01/2008 to 02/28/2009) Message No.: 0231301

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 15:04:43 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

76-01: Surgical Instruments
33-12: Hard and Soft Candies Containing Chili Pepper
20-03: Dried Fruits Due to Lead
16-127: Crabmeat Due to Chloramphenicol
16-120: Fish/Fishery Products from Foreign Processors (Mfrs.) Not in Compliance with Seafood HACCP
16-119: Fish and Fishery Products for Importer and Foreign Processor (Manuf) Combinations
16-105: Seafood and Seafood Products from Specific Manufacturers/Shippers Due to Decomposition and/or Histamines
02-02: Processed Rice-Based Products Due to Filth
45-02: Foods Containing Illegal and/or Undeclared Colors
16-124: Aquaculture Seafood Products Due To Unapproved Drugs
16-81: Seafood Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella
16-18: Shrimp
99-23: Raw Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Due to the Presence of Pathogenic Contamination
99-19: Food Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella
99-08: Processed Foods for Pesticides
77-01: Ear Candles
16-39: Processed Seafood and Analogue Seafood (Surimi) Products for Listeria Monocytogenes

CBP Updates its TRQ/TPL Threshold to Fill List

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:03:48 -0400

CBP News Releases

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:11:46 -0400

CBP has issued the following news releases:

August 19 Opening of Special Import Quota for Upland Cotton

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:04:58 -0400

CBP has issued a memorandum announcing a special import quota of 14,717,826 kg for upland cotton that is provided for in HTS Chapter 99, Subchapter III, U.S. Note 6 and is entered under HTS 9903.52.100. (CBP notes that this quantity is not subject to the TRQs in Chapter 52 Additional U.S. Notes 5 through 10.)

The quota period is August 19, 2010 - February 14, 2011. To be counted under this quota, the cotton must be imported during this period and purchased not later than November 16, 2010. The opening date was August 19, 2010.

EU Appeals WTO Appellate Report in Civil Aircraft Dispute

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:42:44 -0400

The World Trade Organization has posted a notification by the European Union to the Dispute Settlement Body of its decision to appeal to the Appellate Body certain issues of law covered in the Panel Report and certain legal interpretations in the dispute "European Union – Measures Affecting Trade in Large Civil Aircraft" (WT/DS316), including the legal irrelevance of pre-1995 subsidies. (May have to click on source document twice for proper viewing.)

USTR Requests ITC Investigation Update on U.S. Import Restraints

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 10:28:23 -0400

The U.S. Trade Representative has submitted a petition to the International Trade Commission requesting the seventh update of its report on the economic effects of significant U.S. import restraints (Inv. No. 332-325), to include an overview on global supply chains and the economic forces behind them. The request letter is available by emailing BP at documents@brokerpower.com.

ITC Investigation Notices

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:40:55 -0400

The International Trade Commission has issued notices on:

UN Security Council Updates Travel Ban/Assests Freeze List

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:18:04 -0400

On August 19, 2010, the United Nations Security Council Committee, established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006), issued its updated Consolidated List of individuals and entities subject to the travel ban and/or the assets freeze. This List now reflects the names designated via Security Council resolution 1929 (2010) of June 9, 2010. It is available on the Committee’s webpage for the information and use, as appropriate, of all Member States.

FDA Announces Medical Device Nanotechnology Workshop

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:41:25 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration is announcing a public workshop on September 23, 2010, entitled "Medical Devices & Nanotechnology: Manufacturing, Characterization, and Biocompatibility Considerations," to obtain information on manufacturing, characterization, and biocompatibility evaluation of medical devices containing or utilizing nanomaterials and nanostructures, including diagnostics. Comments are due by October 22, 2010.

Export.Gov Posts ITA and SBA Webinar Presentation on NEI, Etc.

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:43:09 -0400

Export.Gov has posted the presentation from the first National Export Initiative (NEI) webinar, co-hosted by the International Trade Administration and the Small Business Administration. In addition, Export.Gov has information on the Export-Import Bank and their export programs, seminars and trade events. SBA also provides video, podcasts, and free courses that give viewers a "walk you" the export process.

Canada to Start its Collection of 10% Softwood Lumber Duties on Sept 1

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:21:20 -0400

On August 18, 2010, Canada's Gazette has published an order stating that September 1, 2010 is the date that sections 99 to 102 of the Jobs and Economic Growth Act come into force. Those sections amend the Softwood Lumber Products Export Charge Act of 2006 to provide for an additional 10% charge on the export of softwood lumber products having a region of origin of Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba or Saskatchewan. The additional 10% export charge is being imposed as a result of the decision issued by an arbitration tribunal of the London Court of International Arbitration on September 28, 2009. The coming-into-force date immediately follows the date on which the U.S. has agreed to cease collecting a 10% import duty on Canadian softwood lumber products imported from the above-mentioned regions.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:07:38 -0400

Preliminary Affirmative Critical Circumstances Determination in the Countervailing Duty Investigation of Drill Pipe from China (C-570-966) Message No.: 0230305
Automatic Liquid. Instruction for Certain Large Diameter Carbon & Alloy Seamless Pipe from Japan (A-588-850); Except JFE Steel Corp, Nippon Steel Corp, NKK Tubes, Sumitomo Metal (06/01/2009 to 05/31/2010) Message No.: 0230306
Cash Deposit Instruction tor Certain Frozen Warmwater Shrimp trom China (A-570-893-000/027/058/060); All Other, Shantou Yuexing, Hilltop Int'l, Zhanjiang Regal Marine Message No.: 0230304
Automatic Liquidation Instructions tor Certain Small Diameter Carbon and Alloy Seamless Standard, Line, and Pressure Pipe from Japan (A-588-851) for the Period 06/01/2009 to 05/31/2010; Liquidate All Entries for All Firms Message No.: 0230302
Amended Cash Deposit Instructions for Certain New Pneumatic Off-Theroad Tires from The People’s Republic of China for Xuzhou Xugong Tyres Co., Ltd (06/01/2009 to 05/31/2010) Message No.: 0230301

Ports of Pensacola, Gulfport Navigation Still Restricted Due to Oil Spill

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:45:17 -0400

CBP has issued a Unified Business Resumption Messaging message providing an update on the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. According to CBP, Pensacola Pass will be closed to vessel traffic during flood tide. In addition, navigation will be restricted in Biloxi Bay near the southeastern portion of Deer Island and will be closed during flood tide and open during ebb. All other waterways are currently open with no restrictions

Summary of AESTIR Changes for August 17

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:38:10 -0400

CBP has posted a summary of changes to the Automated Export System Trade Interface Requirements (AESTIR) that is effective August 17, 2010. Changes were made to Appendix U - HTS/Schedule B Classifications Requiring Used Vehicle Reporting.

ITC Investigation Notices

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:29:33 -0400

The International Trade Commission has issued notices on:

BIS Announces Transportation and Related Equipment TAC Meeting

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:25:24 -0400

The Bureau of Industry and Security announces a partially open meeting of the Transportation and Related Equipment Technical Advisory Committee on September 9, 2010. The agenda for the public session includes a special presentation by Analog Devices, Inc. on MEMS devices, and a review of the status of working groups.

CPSC Announces Open Meetings with Industry Stakeholders

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 09:50:45 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has updated its list of meetings between CPSC and industry stakeholders that are open to the public, unless otherwise stated:

CPSC Office of Hazard Identification and Reduction staff and X-Ray Optical Systems (XOS) staff to discuss HD XRF products and test methods for analysis of lead and other elements of interest in paint on consumer products (open) and to discuss proprietary information about a new XOS prototype instrument (closed); 08/31;
CPSC Office of Hazard Identification and Reduction staff and the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) to discuss CPSC structure, its interaction with stakeholders, and project proposals; 8/19; and
Cancellation of meeting with Mark Kumagai and other CPSC staff and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association; 09/01.

District Court Orders Re-Regulation of Genetically Engineered Sugar Beets

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:06:19 -0400

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California on August 13, 2010, granted a request by opponents of genetically engineered (GE) crops to vacate the deregulation of genetically engineered sugar beets by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, as the agency did not conduct an Environmental Impact Study (EIS) beforehand. The court denied the petitioner’s request for a permanent injunction. The order restoring regulated status applies to all future plantings and does not apply to GE sugar beet root and seed crops planted before August 13, 2010. APHIS June 2010 Factsheet: “Questions and Answers: Environmental Impact Statement on GE Sugar Beets” available here.

EPA Issues Emissions Standards for Certain Internal Combustion Engines

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:26:44 -0400

The Environmental Protection Agency has issued a final rule, effective October 19, 2010, which promulgates national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants for existing stationary spark ignition reciprocating internal combustion engines that either are located at area sources of hazardous air pollutant emissions or that have a site rating of less than or equal to 500 brake horsepower and are located at major sources of hazardous air pollutant emissions.

Commerce Announces Meeting on Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:27:29 -0400

The Commerce Department announces that the National Advisory Committee on Innovation and Entrepreneurship will hold a meeting on September 2, 2010. Agenda topics to be discussed include: U.S. capacity for innovation and entrepreneurship; Administration and Commerce priorities related to innovation and entrepreneurship; and strategies for promoting greater innovation and entrepreneurship in the U.S.

FMCSA Drug/Alcohol Strike Force Hits Unsafe Commercial Drivers and Carriers

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 11:59:30 -0400

Transportation Secretary LaHood announced on August 18, 2010, that 109 commercial bus and truck drivers were removed from the roads and more than 175 carriers face enforcement actions as a result of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's annual drug and alcohol strike force sweep that occurred from June 21 through July 2. The 109 commercial drivers identified in the sweep face the prospect of a monetary fine and being barred from operating a commercial motor vehicle for failing to adhere to federal drug and alcohol regulations. Additionally, 175 commercial carriers face pending enforcement actions for violations, such as using a driver who has tested positive for illegal drugs and for not instituting a drug and alcohol testing program. Both drivers and carriers will have an opportunity to contest the alleged violations and the amount of the civil penalties.

DOJ Announces $298M Fine Against UK Bank for Violation of IEEPA, Etc.

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:07:01 -0400

The Justice Department announced on August 18, 2010, that Barclays Bank PLC, a United Kingdom corporation headquartered in London, has agreed to forfeit $298 million to the U.S. and to the New York County District Attorney’s Office in connection with violations of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Trading with the Enemy Act (TWEA). The violations relate to transactions Barclays illegally conducted on behalf of customers from Cuba, Iran, Sudan and other countries sanctioned in programs administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. OFAC has also entered into a settlement agreement with Barclays for IEEPA violations that will require Barclays to pay $176 million, which is concurrent with the forfeiture paid as a result of the deferred prosecution agreements. The Federal Reserve Board and the New York State Banking Department announced today the issuance of a consent order to cease and desist against Barclays. The order requires Barclays to improve its program for compliance with U.S. economic sanctions requirements on a global basis.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recalls

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:26:36 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recalls:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
Hickory handle sledge hammers: Risk of Injury	White Cap Construction Supply Inc. (CA)	10-320
Double stroller: Collapse Hazard	Lan Enterprises LLC (OR)	10-321
Folding wooden chairs: Fall Hazard	Fred Meyer Inc. (OR)	10-322

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:29:31 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

86-07: Non-Prescription Sunglasses
16-81: Seafood Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella
99-14: Raw Agricultural Products for Pesticides
85-02: Condoms
66-41: Unapproved New Drugs Promoted in The U.S.
53-06: Cosmetics Containing Illegal Colors

FY 2010 Raw Sugar TRQ Period Extended, FY 2011 Period to Start Early

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:04:44 -0400

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that sugar entering the U.S. under the fiscal year 2011 raw sugar import tariff-rate quota (TRQ) will be permitted to enter U.S. Customs territory beginning September 1, 2010, a month earlier than the usual first entry date of October 1. In addition, USDA announced that sugar entering the U.S. under the U.S. FY 2010 raw sugar TRQ will be permitted to enter U.S. Customs territory until October 31, 2010, a month later than the usual last entry date.

FDA Product Code Changes for Tobacco Products

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:53:19 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message stating that due to legislative changes in the regulation of tobacco products, the Food and Drug Administration will be ending the following 3 product codes 30 days from August 17, 2010:

80M--SN Cigarettes (containing Tobacco)
80M--SO Tobacco, Cigarette (for use in making)
80M--SP Tobacco, Smokeless (cut, ground, powdered, or leaf intended to be placed in oral cavity)

(CSMS #10-000195, dated 08/17/10)

CBP Posts CAMIR-Intermodal Amendment 26 (ISF Disposition Codes)

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:49:42 -0400

CBP has posted Amendment 26 to the Customs Automated Manifest Interface Requirements (CAMIR)-Intermodal. Appendix D (Disposition Codes) was revised as follows: Disposition Codes “3O, 3P, 3Q, and 3R” have been changed to “4O, 4P, 4Q, and 4R” for Importer Security Filing. (See ITT's Online Archives or 08/18/10 news, 10081809, for BP summary announcing corrections to the ISF Disposition Codes.)

CBP Posts July TSN Activity Report

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:03:51 -0400

CBP has posted the July 2010 Trade Support Network monthly activity report.

CPSC Seeks Comment on Petition to Limit Cadmium in Children’s Jewelry, Etc.

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 10:27:01 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is seeking comments on a petition it received requesting that the agency issue regulations restricting cadmium in toy metal jewelry (and possibly in other children's products) under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act. Comments are due October 18, 2010.

EU Expects Boost in Animal and Animal Product Exports to Russia

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 10:43:02 -0400

The European Commission reports that exports of animals and animal products from the European Union to Russia are expected to receive a boost after five new certificates for exports between the EU and the Russian Federation entered into force on August 15. These certificates concern beef with bones, canned and dry pet food and breeding sheep and goats.

NARA Publishes List of Cultural/Commercial Agreements With Taipei

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:23:49 -0400

The National Archives and Records Administration, on behalf of The American Institute in Taiwan, has published the list of agreements with the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S. that maintain cultural, commercial and other unofficial relations between the U.S. and Taiwan.

MOFCOM Announces New Think Tank to Focus on Africa

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:05:53 -0400

On August 16, 2010, China's Ministry of Commerce launched the China-Africa Research Center, a think-tank focused on the economies of the two regions, to further bolster trade relations with Africa. The new unit will utilize ministry resources and discuss and deliberate on key economic issues about African nations. It will also provide the government with theoretical clues on future policies for Sino-Africa economic and trade ties and help Chinese companies planning ventures in Africa with consultancy services.

MOFCOM Reports on FDA Commissioner's Trip to China, Praise for Safety Efforts

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:19:35 -0400

China's Ministry of Commerce reports that Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Margaret Hamburg, during her first visit as Commissioner, said on August 13, 2010 that China is improving its oversight of exporters in a bid to root out problems ranging from the contamination of its dairy products to the safety of pharmaceutical exports. She said that U.S.-China teamwork on food safety was part of a broader move to create a global community of regulators, adding that FDA has set up offices in three Chinese cities and is cooperating in many areas, including training and joint inspections. The article adds that the Chinese government introduced a new Food Safety Law in June 2009 with tougher punishments.

ITC Investigation Notices

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:20:44 -0400

The International Trade Commission has issued a notice on:

Certain Flat Panel Digital Televisions and Components Thereof

CBP ITDS Gap Analysis Executive Summary for CBP ConOps Posted

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:16:54 -0400

The International Trade Data System website has posted the executive summary of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection ITDS Gap Analysis. This analysis helps to verify the applicability of the CBP Business Processes defined in the CBP ConOps, as well as support the further definition of CBP and PGA ACE Business Processes needs. This gap analysis considered six Participating Government Agencies, finding that for these six, more than 80% of the functions the PGAs expected to be in the CBP ConOps were satisfied.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recall

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:18:02 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recall:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
THHN Electrical Wire: Fire Hazard	Cerro Wire Inc. (IN)	10-319

OIG Finds DHS Conference Fee Violation in FY 2005-2007 Audit

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:21:07 -0400

The Office of Inspector General has posted its audit of the Department of Homeland Security's handling of conference fees for the process control systems forum, which states that DHS violated the Miscellaneous Receipts Statute by improperly augmenting its appropriations with the conference fees collected in fiscal years 2005-2007 and not remitting those fees to the U.S. Treasury general fund as required, and recommends that it remit the $211,445 collected.

U.S. Wins WTO Dispute with EU on High-Tech Products

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:16:08 -0400

U.S. Trade Representative Kirk has announced that a World Trade Organization dispute settlement panel upheld the U.S. claim that the European Union violated its WTO tariff commitments by imposing duties as high as 14% on three high-tech products. For all three products at issue – flat panel computer monitors, multifunction printers, and certain cable, satellite, and other set-top boxes – the Panel concluded that the EU tariffs were inconsistent with its obligations.

NIST Announces Manufacturing Extension Partnership Meeting

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:40:00 -0400

The National Institute of Standards and Technology announces that its Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Advisory Board will hold an open meeting on September 13, 2010, which will include an overview on (1) the current manufacturing climate and policy initiatives, (2) MEP program evaluation metrics and (3) a discussion of how to support small manufacturers' commercialization of new products and services.

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 08:24:56 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

USTR to Hold TPP Webinar on August 17

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:56:12 -0400

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has announced that it will hold a webinar to discuss the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) on August 17, 2010. The webinar will be hosted by lead negotiators Assistant USTR for Southeast Asia & Pacific Affairs Weisel, Assistant USTR for Environment and Natural Resources Linscott, and Assistant USTR for Labor Karesh. Registration available here.

FMCSA Announces Unified Carrier Registration Plan Board Meeting

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 08:16:11 -0400

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announces a phone meeting of the Unified Carrier Registration Plan Board of Directors on September 9 , 2010 to continue its work in developing and implementing the Unified Carrier Registration Plan and Agreement.

10th Round of ACTA Negotiations Begin, Draft Agenda Available

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:01:34 -0400

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan has announced that the 10th round of negotiations on the proposed Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) are being held from August 16 - August 20, 2010 in Washington, D.C., hosted by the U.S. Participants in the negotiations include Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland and the U.S. A draft agenda has also been posted.

USDA Says World Should Have Enough Wheat Despite Black Sea Problems

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 10:31:06 -0400

USDA's Radio News Service reports that most analysts do not see any major problems in supplying the wheat market with enough wheat, despite shortfalls in some production areas. Moreover, U.S. wheat growers will get a bit of a windfall from the problems Black Sea area producers are having this year.

Next EU-U.S. Summit Will Take Place in November 2010

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:34:16 -0400

The U.S. and the European Union have agreed on a November 20, 2010 date for the next EU-U.S. Summit, which will take place in Lisbon, Portugal. The EU President of the European Council van Rompuy and President of the European Commission Barroso will meet again with President Obama to reaffirm the transatlantic agenda and advance EU-US cooperation on issues of mutual concern.

NHTSA Submits Proposed Rule on Truck Fuel Efficiency to OMB for Approval

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:55:46 -0400

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has submitted a proposed rule to the Office of Management and Budget on Commercial Medium- and Heavy-Duty On-Highway Vehicles and Work Truck Fuel Efficiency Standards.

CBP Plans Policy Change to Assess IPR Penalties at Domestic Value, Not MSRP

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:14:29 -0400

According to a press release from CBP's internal trade conference held in June 2010, CBP is planning a policy change that would help enhance intellectual property rights (IPR) enforcement efforts. “We’re changing the policy so that the field will issue the penalty at the domestic value rather than the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP),” said CBP official Donald Yando. Sources contacted after the conference stated that the agency is working to make the appropriate legal and procedural changes for this new policy. Once in place, CBP will direct the field to issue IPR penalties at the domestic value of the goods rather than the MSRP.

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:45:17 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

Kenya - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals: Kenya Agricultural Biotechnology Annual Report
Nigeria - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals: Agricultural Biotechnology Report
South Africa - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals
Guatemala - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals
Philippines - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals: Philippine Biotechnology Situation and Outlook
Senegal - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals: Francophone West Africa Biotechnology Report
Colombia - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals: Colombia: a market in development
Thailand - Thai FDA Revised Standard for Edible Salt: Sanitary/Phytosanitary/Food Safety
Venezuela - Supermarket Tour: Agricultural Situation
Venezuela - Non-programmed State imports collapse main Venezuelan ports: Agricultural Situation
Kenya - Kenya Wheat Report: Grain and Feed
Uzbekistan - Cotton and Products Update: Cotton Production Update
Japan - MRLs for Ethoprophos Chlorethoxyfos Spinetoram Tribufos Fludioxonil: Sanitary/Phytosanitary/Food Safety
Japan - Japan Announces Withdrawal of 80 Food Additives: Sanitary/Phytosanitary/Food Safety
India - Weekly Highlights and Hot Bites No. 32: Agriculture in the News
South Africa - Raisin Annual
Chile - Stone Fruit Annual: Apricot, Plums, Peach and Nectarines and Cherry Report
Turkey - Biofuels Annual: 2010 Turkey Biofuels Annual
Turkey - Cotton and Products Update: Turkey 2010 Cotton and Products Update
Colombia - Colombia’s Looming FTA with Canada is Bad News for U.S Wheat Exports: Grain and Feed

FSIS Updates Instructions and U.S. Plants for Exporting Meat and Poultry

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:48:50 -0400

FSIS has provided updated information for the export of U.S. meat and poultry to the following countries:

OMB Approves DOE Proposed Rule on International Energy Code

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:11:30 -0400

The Office of Management and Budget approved on August 10, 2010 an Energy Department proposed rule regarding the International Code Council International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with respect to energy efficiency for low-rise residential buildings.

MOFCOM Says Export Rebates for High Consumption Products to be Fine-Tuned

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:36:39 -0400

China’s Commerce Vice Minister stated on August 1, 2010 that in the latter half of the year, China’s policy for foreign trade will give priority to stability. However, as China’s foreign trade environment is facing uncertainty, export rebates for high consumption and high pollution products may be necessarily fine-tuned in accordance with the strategic requirements for energy conservation and emission reduction.

Chicago to Pilot Shortening Hours of Operation at Informal Counter

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:45:13 -0400

CBP's Port of Chicago has issued a Pipeline announcing a pilot that the port will run effective October 11, 2010 to shorten the hours of operation at the Informal Counter at the Port Office in Rosemont, IL. The pilot will run for a period of six months. Pipeline 10-15 (dated 08/12/10) available via email by sending a request to documents@brokerpower.com.

Congressmen Announce Upgrades to Oregon's Port of Tillamook Bay

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:55:26 -0400

Senators Wyden and Merkley and Congressman Schrader announced on August 12, 2010 that Oregon will receive more than $37 million for infrastructure improvements at the Port of Tillamook Bay. The funding is made available to Oregon through the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

President Extends EAA Export Authorities for Another Year

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:44:49 -0400

On August 13, 2009, the President continued for one year all rules and regulations issued or continued in effect under the authority of the Export Administration Act of 1979 or certain provisions of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and all orders, regulations, licenses, and other forms of administrative action issued, taken, or continued in effect pursuant to the EAA of 1979 or certain provisions of the AECA, except to the extent that they are inconsistent with certain provisions of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

FWS Prohibits Import, Export, Etc. of 3 Endangered Bird Species

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:40:44 -0400

The Fish and Wildlife Service has issued a final rule, effective September 16, 2010, implementing endangered status for three species of birds from Latin America and the Caribbean – the Andean flamingo (Phoenicoparrus andinus), the Chilean woodstar (Eulidia yarrellii), and the St. Lucia forest thrush (Cichlherminia lherminieri sanctaeluciae) – under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, which prohibits the take, import, export, transport, sale, etc. of these species.

CBP to Post Revised ACE ABI CATAIR Chapters for Upcoming ACE Deployment

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:42:06 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message stating that revised ACE ABI CATAIR chapters for an upcoming ACE deployment will soon be posted to CBP's website. The changes to the affected CATAIR chapters (Entry Summary Create/Update and Entry Summary Query) are specifically to revise and clarify the party definitions for the parties to the ACE entry summary transaction.

The deployment of these revisions to ACE is currently scheduled for August 28, 2010. CSMS messages will be issued when the chapters have been posted and again when the deployment has occurred.

(CSMS #10-000193, dated 08/16/10)

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:01:17 -0400

Canada: Fuels
European Communities: Vehicles

Treasury Posts Fact Sheet on Iran Sanctions Act Final Rule

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 17:38:50 -0400

The Treasury Department has posted a fact sheet on the Office of Foreign Assets Control's August 16, 2010 final rule establishing regulations to codify certain financial institution provisions of the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010 (CISADA), which was signed into law on July 1, 2010. (See ITT's Online Archives or 08/16/10 news, [Ref:10081618], for BP summary of the OFAC Federal Register notice.)

DDTC Name Change Notices

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:54:24 -0400

The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls has announced the following entity name and/or address change(s) for new DDTC license applications. New license applications received after the listed deadline will be considered for return without action for correction to the new name/address (notices hyperlinked):

Sentry Technology Group, Inc. (address change)– 09/24/10
Meggitt Thermal Systems Inc. to Meggitt (Simi Valley), Inc.– 10/01/10
Engineered Fabrics Corporation to Meggitt (Rockmart), Inc. – 10/01/10
FATS Canada Inc. to Meggitt Training Systems (Quebec) Inc. – 10/01/10
F.A.T.S Singapore Pte Ltd. to Meggitt Training Systems Pte Ltd.– 10/01/10

CBP's Weekly TRQ/TPL Commodity Report as of August 16

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 10:43:25 -0400

CBP has issued its weekly tariff rate quota and tariff preference level commodity report as of August 16, 2010. This report includes TRQs on various products such as beef, sugar, dairy products, peanuts, cotton, cocoa products, and tobacco; and certain BFTA, DR-CAFTA, Israel FTA, JFTA, MFTA, OFTA, SFTA, UAFTA (AFTA) and UCFTA (Chile FTA) non-textile TRQs; etc. Each report also includes the AGOA, ATPDEA, BFTA, DR-CAFTA, CBTPA, Haitian HOPE, MFTA, NAFTA, OFTA, SFTA, and UCFTA TPLs and TRQs for qualifying textile articles and/or other articles; the TRQs on worsted wool fabrics; etc.

CIT Rules Certain Flavorings are Food Preparations and Not Broth

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 15:06:09 -0400

In Aromont USA Inc., v. U.S., the Court of International Trade determined that certain food flavorings (derived from veal, chicken, duck, lamb, beef, fish, lobster, mushroom or vegetable stock), imported from France should not be classified as soups or broths, but instead as unfinished food preparations, principally used as ingredients in gravies, sauces, and salad dressings. The CIT ruled these flavorings were properly classified in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule under subheading 2106.90.99 at 6.4 percent ad valorem and not under subheadings 2104.10.00/ 9903.02.41 at 3.2 percent plus 100 percent ad valorem as Customs and Border Protection had classified and liquidated them.

AESDirect is Back On-Line

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 10:14:25 -0400

On August 13, 2010, the Census Bureau issued an AES broadcast announcing that the power has been restored to the primary datacenter for the AESDirect program and AESDirect is back on-line. All AESDirect program transactions for shipments that moved under the AES Downtime Policy must now be filed along with any new AES transactions. AES broadcast #201043 available by emailing documents@brokerpower.com.

Ports of Pensacola, Gulfport Navigation Still Restricted Due to Oil Spill

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 08:17:34 -0400

Mexico Ends AD Duties on Imports of Certain U.S. Beef

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 09:52:37 -0400

On August 11, 2010, Mexico’s Secretary of Economy published a notice in the Diario Oficial announcing that it is ending its antidumping duties on imports of certain U.S. beef, effective April 29, 2010. According to an unofficial translation of the Diario notice and a National Cattlemen’s Beef Association news release, U.S. beef should enter the Mexican market duty-free. Companies that have paid duties since April 29, 2010 are entitled to a refund of all duties paid.

EU Official Journal Notices for August 13, 2010

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:36:44 -0400

In the August 13, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Notice of initiation of an antidumping proceeding concerning imports of certain fatty alcohols and their blends originating in India, Indonesia and Malaysia;
Regulation concerning the classification of certain goods in the Combined Nomenclature;
Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables; and
Regulation amending the representative prices and additional import duties for certain products in the sugar sector fixed by Regulation (EC) No 877/2009 for the 2009/10 marketing year.

ITC Investigation Notices

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:29:40 -0400

The International Trade Commission has issued notices on:

DOT to Amend Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Procedures

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:33:45 -0400

The Department of Transportation has issued a final rule, effective October 1, 2010, to amend certain provisions of its drug testing procedures dealing with laboratory testing of urine specimens. Some of the changes will also affect the training of and procedures used by Medical Review Officers. According to DOT, the changes are intended to create consistency with many, but not all, of the new requirements established by the Department of Health and Human Services.

FTC Makes Technical Correction to July 2010 Light Bulb Labeling Rule

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:32:49 -0400

The Federal Trade Commission has issued a final rule correcting the Spanish language text in Sample Label 13, published in FTC's July 19, 2010 final rule which amended the light bulb labeling requirements of the Appliance Labeling Rule. (See ITT's Online Archives or 07/22/10 news, 10072228, for BP summary of the July final rule.)

TTB Posts 2010 Version of Wine Seminar Handout

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:54:07 -0400

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau has posted the 2010 version of its Wine Seminar Handout Packet.

OFAC Issues Final Rule to Codify Iran Sanctions Act

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:31:31 -0400

The Office of Foreign Assets Control has issued a final rule, effective August 16, 2010, which establishes regulations to codify provisions of the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010, which was signed into law on July 1, 2010. Comments may be submitted until October 15, 2010. Among other things, the Act expanded the sanctions imposed against Iran by banning imports of certain Iranian textile and floor coverings and foodstuffs, requiring certain procurement certification, etc.

PierPASS Says Nearly Half of LA/LB Trucks Make 4 or More Transactions per Day

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:45:07 -0400

According to a PierPASS press release, the latest transaction data from marine terminal operators at the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach shows that nearly half of trucks conducted at least four transactions (pickups or deliveries of containers) per day in late July, while almost two-thirds of trucks made three or more transactions per day.

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:44:07 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

Croatia - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals: Standing Report
India - FSSAI Seeks Comments on New India Food Safety Law: Sanitary/Phytosanitary/Food Safety
Thailand - Oil Palm Situation Field Trip: Oilseeds and Products
Thailand - Rice Price – Weekly: Weekly Rice Price Update
India - 2010 Monsoon Report 4: Agricultural Situation
Nigeria - Rice Trade – Quarterly: Nigerian Rice Smuggling Eases
Egypt - Impact of Russian Wheat Export Ban: Grain and Feed

List of Trade Related Notices from Mexico's Aug 13 Diario

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 15:12:20 -0400

Mexico's Diario Oficial of August 13, 2010 lists a notice from the Secretary of the Economy on the following:

Final resolution of the review of effectiveness of the antidumping duty imposed on imports of tubular aluminum containers originating in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, regardless of the country of origin. This commodity is classified under tariff item 7612.10.01 of the Tariff Act of the General Taxes of Import and Export

President Signs CBP SW Border Supplemental Funding Bill into Law

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 16:24:05 -0400

On August 13, 2010, President Obama signed into law H.R. 6080, which provides $600 million in emergency supplemental appropriations for FY 2010 to secure the Southwest border and enhance Federal border protection, law enforcement, and counternarcotics activities.

CBP Updates List of NVOCC Participants in Sea AMS

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 09:10:53 -0400

CBP has posted an updated list of non-vessel operating common carrier sea Automated Manifest System (AMS) participants.

August 12 Opening of Special Import Quota for Upland Cotton

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 09:28:41 -0400

CBP has issued a memorandum announcing a special import quota of 14,717,826 kg for upland cotton that is provided for in HTS Chapter 99, Subchapter III, U.S. Note 6 and is entered under HTS 9903.52.99. (CBP notes that this quantity is not subject to the TRQs in Chapter 52 Additional U.S. Notes 5 through 10.)

The quota period is August 12, 2010 - February 7, 2011. To be counted under this quota, the cotton must be imported during this period and purchased not later than November 9, 2010. The opening date is August 12, 2010.

President Signs Miscellaneous Trade Bill into Law

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 09:54:18 -0400

On August 11, 2010, the President signed into law H.R. 4380, the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010 (also known as the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act of 2009, or MTB). H.R. 4380 consists of hundreds of individual HTS 9902 bills, covering such products as loudspeakers, batteries, household appliances, bicycles, monitors, yarns, fibers, footwear, chemicals, chemical products, etc. All of the HTS 9902 changes in the bill are effective for goods entered or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption on or after the 15th day after the date of enactment, i.e., approximately August 26, 2010. Retroactive duty treatment for expired provisions is available upon request (subject to certain conditions).

CPSC Corrects Citations in Regs on Flammable Exemptions

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 08:14:57 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is amending its regulations concerning exemptions for small packages, minor hazards, and special circumstances to correct internal citations to the definitions of “extremely flammable solid” and “flammable solid."

EC Initiates Investigation of U.S. Circumvention of AD/CV Measures on Biodiesel

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 10:39:39 -0400

The European Commission has initiated an investigation of possible circumvention of certain countervailing and antidumping duty measures imposed on imports of biodiesel originating in the U.S. The EC states that the request was lodged on June 30, 2010 by the European Biodiesel Board and contains sufficient preliminary evidence that the CV measures on imports of biodiesel from the U.S. are being circumvented by means of the transhipment of biodiesel via Canada and Singapore and by exports of biodiesel in a blend containing by weight 20% or less of biodiesel.

India Criticizes U.S. and EU Subsidization of Agriculture

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 11:07:35 -0400

India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a press release on U.S. and European Union subsidization of agriculture, which it describes as a substantial trade distortion. The Ministry quotes Organization for Economic Development and Cooperation statistics which put the level of support of agricultural producers at 9% in the U.S. in 2007-09 (expressed as a percentage of producer revenues) and 23% in the EU. The Ministry states that if the key, draft WTO proposals on agriculture are ever agreed to, the EU and U.S. would be required to reduce their levels of support to farmers by 55%-80%.

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:37:27 -0400

European Communities: Biocidal products
European Communities: Biocidal products
European Communities: Biocidal products
European Communities: Biocidal products
European Communities: Chemicals
Mexico: Cereals, foods prepared from cereals, edible seeds, flour, semolina or mixtures thereof, and bakery products
Mexico: New and used trailers and semi-trailers
Paraguay: Valves for cylinders for the storage of compressed natural gas (CNG)

APHIS Miscellaneous and Processed Products PPQ Manual Updated

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:39:20 -0400

On August 12, 2010, APHIS updated its Miscellaneous and Processed Products PPQ Manual. The manual is used for regulating imported items that are processed and are not intended for propagation.

Census Announces AESDirect Program Outage Due to Bad Weather

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:42:51 -0400

On August 12, 2010, the Census Bureau issued an Automated Export System broadcast announcing that due to severe weather conditions, the power at the AESDirect program site is down. During the outage all AESDirect program filers may submit shipments under the AES Downtime Policy. State Department licensable shipments cannot be exported under the AES Downtime Policy and must be held until the connection is restored and an Internal Transaction Number (ITN) is received. Once the connection is restored, all AESDirect program transactions for shipments that were exported under the AES Downtime Policy must be filed along with any new AES transactions. AES PcLink users are encouraged to continue creating and storing shipments in a queue on their local computer for transmission when AESDirect is brought back on-line.

Census states that if a filer utilizes the AES Downtime Policy for export, the filer should contact the port where the filer will export from. In lieu of the AES Proof of Filing citation, the filer should use the the AES Downtime citation, which consists of the phrase AESDOWN, an individual company's Filer ID, followed by the date. Copies of AES Broadcast #2010042 available by emailing document@brokerpower.com

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 08:06:19 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued a notice on:

AD: Polyethylene Retail Carrier Bags from Thailand

CITA Allows Non-DR-CAFTA Woven Yarn-Dyed Fabrics in Unrestricted Quantities

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 08:04:29 -0400

The Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements has determined that certain woven yarn-dyed fabrics of lyocell and cotton classifiable under HTS subheading 5516.13.0000 or 5516.43.00 cannot be supplied in commercial quantities in a timely manner by Dominican Republic-Central America-U.S. Free Trade Agreement countries. The product will be added to the list in Annex 3.25 of the DR-CAFTA in unrestricted quantities.

EU Official Journal Notices for August 11, 2010

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:56:13 -0400

In the August 11, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulations concerning the classification of certain goods in the Combined Nomenclature;
Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables;
Regulation amending the representative prices and additional import duties for certain products in the sugar sector fixed by Regulation (EC) No 877/2009 for the 2009/10 marketing year; and
Decision amending Joint Action 2008/851/CFSP on a European Union military operation to contribute to the deterrence, prevention and repression of acts of piracy and armed robbery off the Somali coast.

FMCSA Administrator's Remarks at Trucking Conference Available

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:26:58 -0400

The remarks of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Administrator Ferro before the Minnesota Trucking Association Annual Conference held on August 4, 2010 in Minnesota have been posted.

FDA Announces Draft Guidance on Egg Salmonella Prevention

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 08:03:52 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration is announcing the availability of a draft guidance entitled "Prevention of Salmonella Enteritidis in Shell Eggs During Production, Storage, and Transportation," which, when finalized, will provide compliance guidance to egg producers. Comments are due by October 12, 2010.

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 15:10:47 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

Canada - Grain and Feed Update: Grain and Feed - July Lock-Up Report
China - Passion for Pizza-- Lifestyle Media Event: CSSF Activity Evaluation
China - Suzhou Profile Update: Market Development Reports
China - Yangzhou City Profile: Market Development Reports

Transitional Mexico Duties on Certain China Goods End in Dec 2011

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 10:38:17 -0400

In June 2008, Mexico and China signed an Agreement on Trade Remedy Measures to eliminate the antidumping duties Mexico had in place on the Chinese origin goods listed in Annex 7 to the Protocol of Accession of China to the World Trade Organization. The June 2008 agreement also allowed for transitional duties to be imposed on certain of these products, until December 2011.

The AD duties were revoked, and the transitional duties were imposed, in October 2008. The transitional duties are reduced each year (2009 – 2011), and are scheduled to end on December 11, 2011. The transitional duties affect various tariff numbers in Chapters 29, 34, 38, 54, 61, 62, 63, 64, 82, 83, 84, 85, 87, 95, and 96.

Annex 7 available here.

FDA Urged to Ensure Adequate Funding in FY 2012 Budget Request

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 10:22:45 -0400

On August 5, 2010, several House Committee and Subcommittee Chairmen sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Sebelius regarding funding levels for the Food and Drug Administration in the FY 2012 budget request. The letter urges Secretary Sebelius to ensure that the FDA’s FY 2012 budget request will set forth a funding level sufficient for FDA to fulfill its public health mission.

CBP Posts Updated Public ACS FIRMS Report

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 09:01:39 -0400

CBP has posted an updated version of its Public Automated Commercial System FIRMS (Facilities Information and Resources Management Systems) report that is organized by port code and alphabetically by company name.

CBP Updates its TRQ/TPL Threshold to Fill List

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 09:06:18 -0400

EU Official Journal Notices for August 10, 2010

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 09:49:22 -0400

In the August 10, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables; and
Regulation amending for the 133rd time Council Regulation (EC) No 881/2002 imposing certain specific restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities associated with Usama bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban.

FDA Request Comments on Fruit and Vegetable Safety Info Collection

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 08:08:34 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration requests comments on a proposed collection of certain information regarding the guidance document entitled "Guidance for Industry: Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards of Fresh-Cut Fruits and Vegetables." Comments are due by October 12, 2010.

State Dept Proposes to Amend ITAR on Dual/Third Country National Screening

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 08:11:32 -0400

The State Department has issued a proposed rule to amend the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to update the policies regarding end-user employment of dual nationals and third-country nationals, which would place the affirmative screening responsibility upon the foreign company, government, or international organization accepting the U.S. Munitions List defense article. Comments are due by September 10, 2010.

USTR Announces Petiitions for 2009 GSP Review, Initiation of 2010 Review

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 08:07:30 -0400

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has issued a notice announcing it has accepted petitions in connection with the 2009 General System of Preferences Annual Review to modify the GSP status of certain GSP beneficiary developing countries because of country practice, which are available here. The GSP Subcommittee will hold a public hearing for all country practice petitions on September 24, 2010. USTR also announces the initiation of the 2010 Annual GSP Country Eligibility Practices Review and determines that the deadline for new country practice petitions is 5 p.m. on September 10, 2010.

Coalition of Service Industries to Hold Global Services Summit in September

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 10:46:47 -0400

The Coalition of Service Industries will holding its annual Global Services Summit on September 22, 2010 in Washington, DC. The Summit, which is on "Breaking the Deadlock on Services Trade and Investment," will feature speakers such as U.S. Commerce Secretary Locke, U.S. Trade Representative Kirk, World Trade Organization Director General Lamy, House Ways and Means Chairman Levin and Ranking Member Camp, and various foreign trade ministers.

ITA Announces Civil Nuclear Trade Meeting on Trade Promotion, Etc.

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 08:12:36 -0400

The International Trade Administration announces a meeting of the Civil Nuclear Trade Advisory Committee on September 1, 2010. The agenda for the public session includes a trade promotion activities update, including on a Commerce-led civil nuclear trade mission to Europe, U.S. industry program at the International Atomic Energy Agency, and U.S.-Brazil Nuclear Codes and Standards Workshop.

State Dept Issues Fact Sheet on Central America Regional Security Initiative

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 10:08:26 -0400

On August 5, 2010, the State Department issued a fact sheet on the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI), which envisions strengthening and integrating security efforts from the U.S. Southwest border to Panama, including the littoral waters of the Caribbean. The desired objective of CARSI is to produce a safer and more secure region where criminal organizations, including those involved with illicit drugs, no longer wield the power to destabilize governments or threaten national and regional security and public safety,

CBP is Preparing for a One Year IPR Voluntary Disclosure Pilot

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:45:47 -0400

During the August 4, 2010 meeting of the Departmental Advisory Committee on Commercial Operations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Related Homeland Security Functions (COAC) in Detroit, MI, a CBP official provided an update on various intellectual property rights issues, including CBP plans for a one year pilot of an IPR voluntary disclosure pilot and CBP's continued work on its 5-year IPR enforcement strategy. Additional information is available via email by sending a request to documents@brokerpower.com.

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:52:20 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

Serbia - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals: Biotechnology Annual Report
Thailand - Rice Price – Weekly: Weekly Rice Price Update
Vietnam - Growth in Pork Meat Consumption Leads to Opportunities for U.S. Exporters: Livestock and Products, Oilseeds and Products, Grain and Feed, Agricultural Situation, Market Development Reports
Russian Federation - Government Slashes Grain Production Forecast: Grain and Feed
Portugal - New Technical Requirements for Wood Products: Wood Products
Italy - Poultry Outlook 2010: Poultry and Products
China - Ningbo Profile - An Merging City Market in East China: Market Development Reports
China - Taizhou - The Cradle of Private Enterprise in China: Market Development Reports
China - Stone Fruit Annual 2010: Stone Fruit
Italy - Agricultural News for Italy and the EU – July 2010: Agriculture in the News
Turkey - Grain and Feed Update
Brazil - Agricultural Situation: Brazil Offers Agricultural Debt Renegotiation to Producers
Thailand - Bangkok Newsletter - August 2010: Agricultural Situation, Market Development Reports
Greece - Greece Stone Fruit 2010: Stone Fruit
Pakistan - Sugar Update: Sugar
Pakistan - Rice Update: Grain and Feed
India - Weekly Highlights and Hot Bites No. 31: Agriculture in the News
Brazil - Grain and Feed Update: July 2010
Mexico - Mexico Lifts Ban on Poultry Imports from Meeker MN: Poultry and Products, Sanitary/Phytosanitary/Food Safety
Mexico - Mexico Proposes Amendment to NOM 022: WTO Notifications

APHIS Animal Product PPQ Manual Updated

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:54:36 -0400

On August 10, 2010, APHIS updated its Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Animal Product Manual. This Manual provides the background, procedures, and regulatory actions to enforce the regulations governing the import and export of animals, animal products, and animal by-products.

FSIS Updates Instructions and U.S. Plants for Exporting Meat and Poultry

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:58:10 -0400

FSIS has provided updated information for the export of U.S. meat and poultry to the following countries:

Long Beach Harbor Commission Approves New Desmond Bridge Project

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:08:57 -0400

The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners has voted unanimously to approve a nearly $1 billion plan to replace the aging Gerald Desmond Bridge with a new, nearly $1 billion span that will improve traffic flow, safety and vessel navigation. Among other things, the new bridge would be higher to allow for the newest generation of green cargo ships to pass underneath. (See ITT's Online Archives or 07/29/10 news, 10072902, for BP summary of the Port releasing the final environmental analysis report for the new bridge.)

ITA Issues Preliminary AD Rates for China Drill Pipe

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 12:02:40 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued a fact sheet announcing its affirmative preliminary determination in the antidumping duty investigation of drill pipe from China, with preliminary AD rates ranging from zero to 429.29% (A-570-965).

Senator Schumer Introduces Bill to Protect Fashion Design

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:34:58 -0400

On August 6, 2010, the American Apparel and Footwear Association issued a press release announcing that Senator Schumer (D) had introduced the Innovative Design Protection and Piracy Prevention Act (S. 3728), a bill that would offer intellectual property protection to unique and original fashion designs. Supported by the AAFA and the Council of Fashion Designers of America, S. 3728 would, for the first time, allow American designers to benefit from legal protections and at the same time continue to ensure the competitiveness of the U.S. apparel and footwear industry as it delivers fashionable and affordable clothing to consumers.

Senate Passes Resolution Supporting U.S. Hardwoods Industry

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:34:01 -0400

On August 5, 2010, the Senate agreed to S. Res. 411, recognizing the importance and sustainability of the U.S. hardwoods industry and urging that U.S. hardwoods and the products derived from U.S. hardwoods be given full consideration in any program to promote construction of environmentally preferable commercial, public, or private buildings, and the resolution was then agreed to.

Russia to Introduce a Temporary Ban on the Export of Some Grains

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 08:51:45 -0400

The Ministry for Economic Development of the Russian Federation reports that Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Putin signed a resolution on August 5, 2010 to introduce a temporary ban on the export of some agricultural products from the Russian Federation, due to a sharp change in crop forecast. The ban is imposed from August 5 - December 31, 2010. The issue of lifting the embargo on the export of Russian grain is postponed till December, after the results of harvesting campaign are known.

Under the ban are such grain-crops as wheat and meslin, barley, rye, corn, as well as wheat or wheat-rye flour.

CIT Rejects ITA Approach to AD/CV for NMEs, Orders No CV for China Tires

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:26:58 -0400

The Court of International Trade rejected the International Trade Administration’s approach to combined antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) tariffs on imports from non-market economies, and ordered the agency to forego imposing CVDs on off-the-road (OTR) tires from China. The ruling is likely to mean lower combined rates in the future for diverse imports from China and other non-market economy countries¹ that are subject to both types of trade remedy tariffs.

COAC ISF Subcommittee Recommends Benefits for Highly Compliant Importers

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:29:36 -0400

COAC's Importer Security Filing Subcommittee has issued its recommendations with respect to benefits afforded to importers that are highly compliant with ISF requirements.

ITC Investigation Notices

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 08:21:30 -0400

The International Trade Commission has issued a notice on:

FAS Issues July 2010 Citrus Update on Global Orange Production

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 10:43:05 -0400

The Foreign Agricultural Service's July 2010 Citrus Update states that global production and trade, which is estimated at 49.8 million metric ton (MMT) and 3.5 MMT, are both down 5 percent from the January forecast. Production in Brazil declined 8 percent, from 17.8 MMT to 16.2 MMT, due to excessive rainfall during blossoming and fruit development. U.S. orange trade is expected to continue to rise in response to strong demand from Canada and South Korea and larger exportable supplies. However, South African exports are expected to decline due to reduced exportable supplies and weaker demand from Russia and the Middle East.

APHIS Requests Comments on Info Collection on Animal Exports

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 08:17:01 -0400

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announces its intention to request extension of approval of an information collection associated with the export of animals and animal products from the U.S. for an additional three years. Comments are due by October 12, 2010.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:24:49 -0400

Non-Review Liquidation Instruction for Chlorinated Isocyanurates from the People’s Republic of China for the Period 06/01/2009 through 05/31/2010 Message No.: 0217307
Antidumping Duty Order in the Investigation of Certain Steel Grating from China (A-570-947) Message No.: 0217306
Non-Review Liquidation Instruction for Non-Frozen Apple-Juice Concentrate from China (A-570-855) Message No.: 0217304
Non-Review Liquidation Instruction for Folding Metal Tables and Chairs from the People’s Republic of China for the Period 06/01/2009 through 05/31/2010 Message No.: 0217303
Partial Revocation of Antidumping Duty Order on Certain Frozen Warmwater Shrimp from India for Devi Seafoods Ltd. (A-533-840-001) Message No.: 0217302
Cash Deposit Instructions for the New Shipper Review of Wooden Bedroom Furniture from China Exported and Produced by Zhejiang Tianyi Scientific & Educational Equipment Co., Ltd. (A-570-890-191) Message No.: 0217301

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:26:51 -0400

Kenya: Plastic pipes for water supply (HS 3917.22)
Kenya: Particle boards (HS 4410)
Kenya: Particle boards (HS 4410)
Korea: Livestock products
Korea: Reflectors for automobiles (HS 3926.90)
Korea: Medical devices

DDTC Name Change Notices

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 17:06:40 -0400

SKF USA Inc. (address change) – 10/02/10
Stinnes Holding Corporation to DB US Holding Corporation – 09/15/10

China Scraps Preferential Power Rates for Energy-Intensive Firms

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 21:26:07 -0400

On August 6, 2010, GOV.cn reported that preferential electricity rates granted by 22 provincial governments for high energy-consuming businesses have been totally scrapped. All energy-intensive enterprises must be subject to the new power tariff surcharges introduced in May, said the National Development and Reform Commission in a statement posted on its website. The news comes three days after Chinese statistics authorities said China's consumption of energy relative to economic output rose in the first half by 0.09 percent from the same period last year. "This points to the difficulty of the country reaching its target of improving energy efficiency by 20 percent between 2005 and 2010," said Li Zuojun, researcher of energy policies at the Development Research Center of the State Council.

China Hopes U.S. Won't be Too Demanding on its GPA Reapplication

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 23:23:04 -0400

Xinhuanet.com reported on August 5, 2010 that China's ambassador to the World Trade Organization, Sun Zhenyu, stated the country is committed to joining the government procurement agreement (GPA) "as soon as possible", but still hopes GPA member nations including the U.S. are not "too demanding" on its revised offer.The GPA is a set of standards that grant foreign companies nondiscriminatory access to government purchases. Many expect China's procurement market to become open to foreign businesses if the country joins the GPA. Joining will also allow Chinese enterprises to enter the government procurement markets in 41 WTO member nations that have joined the GPA.

CBP Message on AD and CV Duty Actions

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 07:46:22 -0400

No Shipments Inquiry for Certain Hot-Rolled Carbon Steel Flat Products from India (A-533-820-001/002/004); JSW Steel Ltd, ISPAT Industries Limited, ESSAR Steel Limited Message No.: 0215302

Ports of Pensacola, Gulfport Navigation Still Restricted Due to Oil Spill

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 07:35:53 -0400

U.S., West African Union Hold Sixth TIFA Council Meeting

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 09:11:35 -0400

Representatives of the U.S. and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) recently convened the sixth meeting of the U.S.-UEMOA Trade and Investment Framework Agreement Council. The two sides discussed a broad range of trade and investment-related issues, including implementation of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, cooperation in the World Trade Organization, and issues relating to regional integration, agriculture, business climate and investment, infrastructure and trade capacity building.

Rep Michaud Praises Senate Bill to Allow Permanent Truck Weight Changes

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 10:00:51 -0400

On August 5, 2010, Representative Michaud, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, issued a press release praising Senators Crapo, Collins, and Kohl for introducing the Senate version of his bill, the Safe and Efficient Transportation Act (H.R. 1799), which would allow Maine and other states to increase the weight of trucks allowed on the Interstate System within state borders. Michaud states that the current patchwork of differing weight requirements harms safety by forcing trucks onto roads not designed for their use and hurts the economy by reducing the efficiency of freight networks.

OFAC Blocks 2 Entities, 7 Individuals Under Terrorism EO

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 08:39:17 -0400

The Office of Foreign Assets Control is publishing the names of two newly-designated entities and seven individuals in Iran, Lebanon, and Syria whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to Executive Order 13224, “Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions With Persons Who Commit, Threaten To Commit, or Support Terrorism,"effective on August 3, 2010.

Commerce Names New Members to ITA Manufacturing Council

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 10:16:59 -0400

Commerce Secretary Locke on August 5, 2010 announced his appointment of 24 members to the 2010 Manufacturing Council. The Council, which is directed by the Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration, was established in 2004 and recently re-chartered to increase its membership from 15 to 25 members. The Secretaries of Labor, Energy and Treasury have also been added as ex officio members of the Council to better collaborate on the cross-cutting issues the Council will address. Locke's remarks available here.

EU Official Journal Notices for August 6, 2010

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 11:04:31 -0400

In the August 6, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Information concerning the entry into force of the Agreement between the EC & Australia on trade in wine;
Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables; and
Decision on the signing and provisional application of the Agreement on Air Transport between the EC and Canada.

FMCSA to Eliminate Registrant-Only Numbers Under PRISM Program

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 08:55:40 -0400

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announces elimination of the “registrant-only” USDOT number as part of the Performance and Registration Information Systems Management (PRISM) program, effective September 1, 2011, as it has concluded that the practice of issuing registrant-only numbers to entities that are not motor carriers is having an adverse affect on FMCSA's ability to track motor carriers’ safety violations. FMCSA will maintain all existing numbers as dormant registrant-only USDOT numbers.

FSIS Guide for Products with Small Amounts of Meat/Poultry Available in 4 Languages

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 11:17:34 -0400

The Food Safety Inspection Service's Import Permit Guide for Products with Small Amounts of Meat and Poultry, issued in April 2009, is available in the following languages, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese. The Guide details the requirement that importers of FSIS-exempt food products (e.g. dry soup mixes, bouillion cubes) that contain small amounts (less than 2%) of meat or poultry that comes from an animal disease country will not be granted a new (or renewed) APHIS import permit unless FSIS makes a determination that the meat or poultry ingredient is from an approved source.

USDA Radio Broadcast on Recent Russian Roadblock to U.S. Poultry Exports

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 10:24:14 -0400

In a USDA radio broadcast, top Obama Administration officials reacted to Russia's July 30, 2010 announcement that it wanted to audit and inspect U.S. facilities before allowing U.S. poultry to be exported to Russia, an extra requirement not the in June 2010 agreement reached between the two countries to reopen Russia's markets to U.S. poultry exports. USDA states that the first U.S. exports were already packed and ready to go when news of this development was received.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:28:35 -0400

Antidumping Scope Ruling on Folding Metal Tables and Chairs from the People’s Republic of China Message No.: 0216304
Gap Period Liquidation Instructions for the Antidumping Duty Order on Certain Steel Grating from China (A-570-947) (07/06/2010 fo 07/18/2010) Message No.: 0216303
Revocation of Antidumping Duty Order on Natural Bristle Paint Brushes and Brush Heads from China (A-570-501) Message No.: 0216302
Notice of Final Determination in the Antidumping Duty Investigation of Narrow Woven Ribbons With Woven Selvedge from China (A-570-952) Message No.: 0216301

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:30:14 -0400

China: Printers, fax machines and multi-function device (MFD) (HS 8443, 8517)
China: Digital television adapters (HS 8528)
China: Small-power motor (HS 8501)
Colombia: Chocolate
European Communities: In vitro diagnostic medical devices
European Communities: In vitro diagnostic medical devices
Mexico: Producers of milk, milk formula, combined dairy products and dairy by-products
Mexico: AC motors

CPSC Considers Proposed Info Collection on Durable Nursery Product Ownership

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:01:17 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is scheduled to vote by August 12, 2010 on a draft Federal Register notice seeking comments on a proposed information collection regarding durable nursery products. The information collection would seek information on ownership characteristics, the life cycle of the products, and consumer behaviors and perceptions regarding such products.

Change to ACE Authorized Data Extract Reports

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:16:36 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message stating that the number of rows available when running an Authorized Data Extract report increased from 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 rows effective August 1, 2010. The data is returned in a raw data format and will need to be saved in an “Excel” or “CSV” format for data manipulation. An Authorized Data Extract report should be used when the data requested in one report exceeds the current data quantity limitation of 65,000 rows. CBP notes that only the Trade Account Owner or the Proxy Trade Account Owner can schedule the Authorized Data Extract reports. Authorized Data Extracts will be returned to the “inbox.” The "Create Date Begin and End," which defaults to 01/01/2006 01/01/2007, needs to be changed before scheduling the extract. For extract of 1,000,000 rows or larger, CBP recommends opening them during non-peak hours.

(CSMS #10-000186, dated 08/02/10)

FMCSA Introduces Cargo Tank Driver Rollover Prevention Video

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 09:28:48 -0400

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has introduced a new training video that it states will help make the highways safer for cargo tank drivers and motorists alike. The video provides cargo tank drivers with best practices and safety tips on how to avoid rollover crashes while transporting hazardous materials. Developed in partnership with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the National Tank Truck Carriers, the “Cargo Tank Driver Rollover Prevention Video” uses driver interviews and on-road scenarios to highlight the factors that contribute to rollovers. The video will be distributed to cargo tank motor carriers nationwide, and is available online.

Updated ABI Software Vendors List

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:49:42 -0400

CBP's Office of Information and Technology has posted an updated list of companies/persons offering ABI data processing services to the trade community.

President Discusses Trade Enforcement in AFL-CIO Speech

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:24:39 -0400

In his speech before the AFL-CIO Executive Council, President Obama noted that the U.S. is finally enforcing its trade laws - in some cases for the very first time. He added that his Administration is also fighting for tax breaks for companies that invest in the U.S. as opposed to companies that are investing overseas or keep their profits offshore.

CPSC to Vote on Lifting Testing/Certification Stay for Youth ATVs

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 09:25:46 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is scheduled to vote by August 11, 2010 on a draft Federal Register notice establishing accreditation requirements for third-party labs to be able to test children's (or youth) all-terrain vehicles for compliance with 16 CFR Part 1420. Publication of these lab requirements would effectively lift the testing and certification stay that has been in effect for these products since February 2009.

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:24:20 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

ITA Anounces Availability of 2010 Certain Worsted Wool Fabric Grant Funds

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:26:12 -0400

The International Trade Administration announces that the Commerce Department iis providing financial assistance in calendar year 2010 for U.S. manufacturers of certain worsted wool fabrics. The total amount of grants to manufacturers of worsted wool fabrics described in HTS 9902.51.11 and HTS 9902.51.15 shall each be $2,666,000 in calendar year 2010. Applications by eligible U.S. producers of certain worsted wool fabrics must be received and validated by Grants.gov, postmarked, or provided to a delivery service on or before 5 p.m. EDT, August 20, 2010.

CBP Seeks HTS Change to Make Certain Festive Apparel, Etc. Duty-Free

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 11:07:56 -0400

On July 1, 2010, U.S. Customs and Border Protection sent a letter to the International Trade Commission requesting that the ITC commence a Section 1205 investigation regarding the possible addition of a new Chapter 98 duty-free provision for certain utilitarian festive articles. CBP letter to ITC available via email by sending a request to documents@brokerpower.com

N. Carolina Man Pleads Guilty for Role in Bribing Kyrgyzstan Officials

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:40:31 -0400

The Department of Justice has announced that a North Carolina businessman has pleaded guilty for his role in a conspiracy to pay bribes to officials of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan, in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). At sentencing, Elkin faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

CPSC Commissioners Comment on Public Accommodation Vote Under Pool Act

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 11:03:07 -0400

Four of the five Commissioners of the Consumer Product Safety Commission have posted statements regarding their recent vote to adopt a different definition of “public accommodation facility” from the one they adopted in draft form last March for purposes of enforcing the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.

USTR Requests Comments on Foreign Trade Barriers

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:26:48 -0400

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative's Trade Policy Staff Committee requests comments on issues that USTR should examine in preparing the National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, and the reports on standards-related measures and sanitary and phytosanitary measures that create barriers to U.S. exports. Comments are due by October 4, 2010.

EU Official Journal Notices for August 5, 2010

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 11:29:07 -0400

In the August 5, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 828/2009 laying down detailed rules of application for the marketing years 2009/10 to 2014/15 for the import and refining of sugar products of tariff heading 1701 under preferential agreements;
Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables; and
Regulation amending the representative prices and additional import duties for certain products in the sugar sector fixed by Regulation (EC) No 877/2009 for the 2009/10 marketing year.

APHIS Officials Clarify "Plant" in Proposed Rule on Lacey Act Definitions

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 11:56:46 -0400

APHIS officials have provided clarification on the proposed definition of the term “plant” and the use of that term in the proposed definitions of “common cultivar” and “common food crop".These sources explain that the proposed definition of the term “plant” (including the descriptor “wild”) is for those plants subject to the Act.Common cultivars and common food crops are categorically exempted from the Act. For all practical purposes, this means that these items are not subject to the Act, and their proposed definitions are not subject to the proposed definition of “plant”.

Revised FDA Import Alert

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:07:39 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted a revised version of the following Import Alert on the detention without physical examination of:

16-08: Swordfish for Methyl Mercury

Pakistan Firm Files with FMC Against Forwarder's Release of Goods Before Payment

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 14:46:18 -0400

The Federal Maritime Commission states that a complaint has been filed by Bimsha International against Chief Cargo Services, Inc., and Kaiser Apparel, Inc., alleging that in three transactions these firms fraudulently, unlawfully and wrongfully released shipments sent by Bimsha without obtaining the negotiable Bills of Lading and remitting payment for the shipments as required by the Shipping Act and the Bill of Lading Act.

Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria Agree to Establish Free Trade Zone

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 09:47:31 -0400

In June 2010, Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria agreed to set up a free trade zone which will be based on existing bilateral agreements and practices on free trade and visa exemption between the parties. However, Turkey and Lebanon will need to complete a bilateral arrangement before the four-way process can go ahead.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 09:02:16 -0400

Cash Deposit Instructions for Certain Hot-Rolled Carbon Steel Flat Products from India (C-533-821-004), Tata Iron and Steel Co. Ltd. (Tisco) Message No.: 0211307
Scope Ruling on Antidumping Duty Order on Certain Cased Pencils from China (A-570-827); Inspired Design LLC's Pedestal Pets Sets Message No.: 0211306
Automatic Liquidation Instructions for Certain Polyester Staple Fiber from Taiwan for the Period 05/01/2009 through 04/30/2010 (A-583-833); Excepted Firms Listed Message No.: 0211305
Automatic Liquidation Instructions for Ball Bearings and Parts Thereof from Japan for the Period (A-588-201)-Excepted Firms in Paragraph Two Message No.: 0211304
Automatic Liquidation Instructions for Ball Bearings and Parts Thereof from the United Kingdom (A-412-201)-Excepted Firms Listed in Paragraph Two Message No.: 0211302
Automatic Liquidation Instructions for Ball Bearings and Parts Thereof from Germany (A-428-201); Excepted Firms Listed Message No.: 0211301
Notification of Rescission of Administrative Review of Antidumping Duty Order of Certain Large Diameter Carbon and Alloy Seamless Standard, Line and Pressure Pipe from Japan (A-588-850) (06/01/2008 To 05/31/2009) Message No.: 0211303

Trade-Related Bills Introduced on Aug 3

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 09:08:39 -0400

On August 3, 2010, the following trade-related bill was introduced:

drugs

S. 3690. A bill to provide for additional quality control of drugs

Xinhuanet Reports on China's Scrapping of Tariffs, Taxes on High Tech Imports

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 10:53:15 -0400

Xinhuanet.com reports on August 3, 2010, that China has scrapped tariffs and value-added taxes on core equipment, components, and raw materials imported and used in civilian high-tech projects since July 15, according to a circular of the Ministry of Finance and other departments.The move seeks to encourage research and development in the nation' s major strategic products, core technologies and major projects, said the circular.The projects that have been exempted from taxation include core electronics, high-end universal chips, basic software, integrated circuit-manufacturing equipment, new generation wireless mobile communication networks, and new drugs for prevention and treatment of some infectious diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recall

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 12:23:01 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recall:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
Bunk Beds: Entrapment Hazard	Pottery Barn Kids, a division of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (CA)	10-312

CBSA Revises AD Schedule for China Carbon Steel Pipe Fittings

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 17:11:30 -0400

On August 3, 2010, the Canada Border Services Agency revised its schedule concerning the antidumping re-investigation of certain carbon steel pipe nipples and adaptor fittings, in nominal diameters up to and including 6 inches and the metric equivalents, originating in or exported from China. The re-investigation will now be concluded on September 10, 2010. File #: 4258-119. Case #: AD/1291.

FTZB Requests Comments on Proposed Alternative Site Framework Adjustments

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 08:27:46 -0400

The Foreign-Trade Zones Board is inviting public comment on a staff proposal to make minor adjustments to the Board’s practice regarding the alternative site framework adopted by the Board in December 2008 as an option for grantees to designate and manage their general-purpose FTZ sites. The proposed adjustments focus on eliminating the current requirement for “activation limits” on a site-specific basis and on allowing more flexibility regarding letters from jurisdictions within a grantee’s proposed “service area.”

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 08:31:48 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

USTR Kirk Opens the Ninth AGOA Forum

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:16:55 -0400

U.S. Trade Representative Kirk spoke at the opening ceremony of the Ninth U.S.-Sub-Saharan Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum, better known as “the AGOA Forum.” In attendance were cabinet ministers and senior officials from the 38 sub-Saharan African countries that benefit from the AGOA trade preference program, as well as representatives of African regional economic communities, the American and African private sector, and civil society. The ministerial portion of the event is being held in Washington, D.C. from August 2-3, 2010. A separate session focused on the private sector and opportunities for U.S.-African trade in the agribusiness sector, is being held in Kansas City, Missouri from August 4-6. A transcript of Kirk's speech is available here.

APHIS Proposes Rule on Lacey Act Definitions of Common Cultivar, Food Crop, Etc.

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 08:24:25 -0400

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has issued a proposed rule to define “common cultivar” and “common food crop”, which are among the categorical exemptions to the Lacey Act Amendments requirements.APHIS is also proposing to add the definition of the term “plant.”Comments on this proposed rule are due by October 4, 2010. See future issue of ITT for a more detailed summary of the proposed rule.

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 09:05:14 -0400

European Communities: Fertilizers (HS 31)
Georgia: Sites bearing increased technical threat
Qatar: Tobacco products
South Africa: Apricots (HS 0809.10)

FSIS Issues Notice for its Inspection Personnel and Public

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 09:06:04 -0400

FSIS has issued the following notice:

Notice 41-10 (July 29, 2010): Synchronization of Field Computers

Treasury Blocks Iran Gov't Supported Organizations Under Terrorism EO, Etc.

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:52:11 -0400

The Treasury Department announces a set of designations targeting the Government of Iran's support for terrorism and terrorist organizations, including Hizballah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC) and the Taliban, pursuant to Executive Order 13224. All transactions involving the designees and any U.S. person are prohibited, and any assets the designees may have under U.S. jurisdiction are frozen. Treasury also identified 21 entities in Iran's banking, insurance and investment, mining, and engineering industries determined to be owned or controlled by the Government of Iran, with which transactions are prohibited under the Iranian Transactions Regulations, in a press release available her e.

Business Software Alliance Testifies at House Hearing on Jobs and IP Piracy

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:26:59 -0400

During July 21, 2010 testimony at a House Committee for Small Business hearing on "The Impact of Intellectual Property on Entrepreneurship and Job Creation", the Business Software Alliance stated that it will soon be releasing a study to quantify the impact of unfair software competition. Preliminary results estimate that addressing this problem in China alone would add over 25,000 new U.S. software jobs and many times that amount throughout the rest of the economy. SBA recommended that small businesses continue to be trained to manage their software licenses to protect themselves from the legal, technical and financial consequences of using unlicensed software. BSA has partnered with the Small Business Administration to develop resources for small businesses, including its “Software Strategies for Small Business” guide and its www.smartaboutsoftware.org website.

USDA Announces FY 2011 TRQs for Raw, and Refined and Specialty Sugar

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:18:21 -0400

On July 30, 2010, the Department of Agriculture announced the raw, and refined and specialty sugar import tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) for fiscal year 2011 (October 1, 2010 – September 30, 2011). The fiscal year 2011 import TRQ for raw sugar will be established at 1,231,497 short tons raw value (STRV), the minimum amount to which the United States is committed under the World Trade Organization (WTO) Uruguay Round Agreements. The fiscal year 2011 refined and specialty sugar TRQ will be established at 109,251 STRV. This amount includes the WTO minimum amount of 24,251 STRV, of which 1,825 STRV is reserved for specialty sugar, as well as an additional specialty sugar amount of 85,000 STRV to accommodate a rapidly expanding organic food sector.

Northwest Airlines to Pay $38M for its Part in Air Cargo Price Fixing Conspiracy

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:09:52 -0400

The Department of Justice announces that Northwest Airlines LLC has agreed to plead guilty and to pay a $38 million criminal fine for its role, through Northwest Airlines Cargo, in a conspiracy to fix prices in the air transportation industry, in violation of the Sherman Act.

FY 2011 State and Financial Services Bills Reported in Senate

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 09:42:25 -0400

On July 29, 2010, the following measures were reported in the Senate:

S. 3676, making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2011. (S. Rept. No. 111-237)
S. 3677, making appropriations for financial services and general government for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2011. (S. Rept. No. 111-238)

PTO Supplemental Appropriations Act Passed by Senate

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 10:03:33 -0400

On July 29, 2010, the Senate passed H.R. 5874, making supplemental appropriations for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010.

Trade-Related Bills Introduced on July 30

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 10:35:34 -0400

On July 30, 2010, the following trade-related bills were introduced:

China trade relations	H.R. 6071. A bill to withdraw normal trade relations treatment from the products of the People's Republic of China, to provide for a balanced trade relationship between that country and the U.S., and for other purposes
trade expansion	H.R. 6007. A bill to amend section 310 of the Trade Act of 1974 to strengthen provisions relating to the identification of U.S. trade expansion priorities
beef testing	H.R. 6024. A bill to amend the Federal Meat Inspection Act to develop an effective sampling and testing program to test for E. coli in boneless beef manufacturing trimmings and other raw ground beef components
airport screening	H.R. 6047. A bill to improve airport screening and security
U.S. textile support	H.R. 6060. A bill to support innovation and research in the United States textile and fiber products industry

USTR Comments on Peru's Inadequate Forest Sector Governance

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 09:57:56 -0400

U.S. Trade Representative Kirk announced that the U.S. is deeply concerned that the Government of Peru has not yet taken all necessary steps to ensure complete implementation of the Annex on Forest Sector Governance under the Peru Trade Promotion Agreement by the August 1, 2010 deadline.

The Office of the USTR is assessing the other options available to it under the Agreement, but as a first step, it will be sending a senior USTR official to Lima in the coming days to meet with Peruvian officials to determine how this situation can be promptly resolved. The USTR is also requesting to convene a meeting of the PTPA’s Forest Sector Sub-Committee at the earliest possible date to reach agreement on a concrete course of action that can bring Peru into compliance within a limited timeframe.

President Signs Bill into Law Extending SBA Programs

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 10:05:35 -0400

On July 30, 2010, the President signed into law H.R. 5849, which extends the authorizations of certain Small Business Administration programs until September 30, 2010.

EU Official Journal Notices for July 31, 2010

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 10:12:38 -0400

In the July 31, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables;
Regulation amending the representative prices and additional import duties for certain products in the sugar sector fixed by Regulation (EC) No 877/2009 for the 2009/10 marketing year;
Regulation fixing the import duties in the cereals sector applicable from August 1, 2010; and
Decision authorizing the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified maize.

U.S. and India Sign Nuclear Procedures, Expect Increase in Nuclear Trade

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 10:43:01 -0400

On July 30, 2010, the U.S. and India signed an agreement on arrangements and procedures under the Agreement for Cooperation Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy. These procedures will facilitate participation by U.S. firms in India’s expanding civil nuclear energy sector by enabling India's reprocessing of U.S.-obligated nuclear material at a new national reprocessing facility in India. According to the U.S. embassy in India, increased civil nuclear trade with this country will create thousands of new jobs for the U.S. economy.

DOE Allows Samsung to Use Alternate Refrigerator-Freezer Test Procedure

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 08:24:10 -0400

The Department of Energy gives notice of the decision and order (Case No. RF-014) that grants to Samsung Electronics America, Inc. a waiver from the DOE electric refrigerator and refrigerator-freezer test procedure for certain basic models of residential refrigerator-freezers containing relative humidity sensors and adaptive control antisweat heaters. Samsung shall be required to test and rate these refrigerator-freezers using an alternate test procedure that takes this technology into account when measuring energy consumption.

ITA Announces Services Trade Data Initiative Conference

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 08:23:34 -0400

The International Trade Administration, in conjunction with the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is announcing a kick-off conference on September 14, 2010 for its services trade data initiative. Primary goals include enhancements to services data to ensure that it is effective for commercial decision-making, policy planning, and is relevant for trade agreements in support of increased US services exports.

USDA Amends GSM-102 Credit Guarantees for Agricultural Commodity Export Sales

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:00:17 -0400

On July 30, 2010, the Department of Agriculture amended the availability of the following credit guarantees for sales of U.S. agricultural commodities under the Commodity Credit Corporation's Export Credit Guarantee Program (GSM-102) for fiscal year 2010, as follows :

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:40:37 -0400

Automatic Liquidation Instructions for Stainless Steel Plate in Coils from Belgium (C-423-809); Except Arcelormittal SS Belgium (formerly ALZ N.V. and UGINE & ALZ Belgium) (01/01/2009 to 12/31/2009) Message No.: 0210304
Countervailing Duty Order on Certain Steel Grating from China (C-570948) Message No.: 0210303
Cash Deposit Instruction for Saccharin from The People’s Republic of China (07/01/2008 to 06/30/2009) Message No.: 0210301
Termination of the Antidumping Duty Investigation of Monopotassium Phosphate (MKP) from China (A-570-962); Continue Suspension DKP and TKPP Message No.: 0210302

CBP Posts Exchange Rate Multipliers for Week Ending July 30

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:23:24 -0400

CBP has posted the weekly foreign currency exchange rate multipliers for the week ending July 30, 2010.

COAC Bond Subcommittee Meeting Minutes

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:27:40 -0400

CBP has posted the minutes from the July 12, 2010 COAC Bond Subcommittee meeting.

U.S. Closes Juarez Consulate as Part of Security Review

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:28:48 -0400

At the State Department's July 30, 2010 press briefing, the agency stated that its Juarez Consulate is a major component of the U.S. government's ability to process visa applications for Mexicans wishing to come to the U.S. The State Department is reviewing its security posture at the consulate. It was closed on July 30 as part of that review. There is some threat information that the Department has received that it is evaluating.

CBP Posts CAMIR-Intermodal Amendment 25

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 07:41:43 -0400

CBP has posted Amendment 25 to the Customs Automated Manifest Interface Requirements (CAMIR)-Intermodal. The following sections were revised: Appendix D (Disposition Codes) and Appendix F (Schedule K).

CBP Can Now Accept Electronic Product Guides for IP Enforcement

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:03:09 -0400

CBP has announced that trademark and copyright holders can now provide their product identification guides electronically for use by CBP to identify counterfeit goods and prevent them from entering the U.S.This electronic system will allow CBP to provide the information to CBP field personnel nationwide for immediate use in identifying suspect shipments. The new system also makes these in-depth resources readily available to all CBP personnel involved in intellectual property rights enforcement.

FDA Product Codes Updated, Tips for Partial Releases, Lacey/FDA Filings

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:28:03 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message providing Food and Drug Administration information regarding product codes, partial release, and Lacey Act declaration and FDA reporting.

Foreign Trade Zone Board Actions and Notices

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:22:48 -0400

The Foreign Trade Zone Board has issued the following notice:

FTZ 138 – Applications for Reorganization under Alternative Site Frameworks: Foreign Trade Zone 138; Columbus, OH

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:26:17 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

Trade-Related Bills Introduced on July 29

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 10:11:29 -0400

On July 29, 2010, the following trade-related bills were introduced:

food labeling	S. 3669. A bill to increase criminal penalties for certain knowing violations relating to food that is misbranded or adulterated
pavement markings	S. 3670. A bill to establish standards limiting the amounts of arsenic and lead contained in glass beads used in pavement markings

Labor Dept Gives $10M to El Salvador for Child Labor Eradication Efforts

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:37:01 -0400

In her visit to El Salvador, Labor Secretary Solis announced a new U.S. contribution of $10 million to support the Salvadoran government’s efforts to combat and eradicate child labor. The project will address the issue of child labor in an integrated manner by focusing on the entire family, including both parents and children. It also will work in a coordinated fashion with other ILO programs such as the Global Jobs Pact and initiatives that promote decent work for adults so that they do not need to rely on their children for survival. Solis noted that El Salvador has been at the forefront of global efforts to combat child labor. In 2000 it was one of the first countries in the world, and the first in Latin America, to commit itself to a time-bound program to combat the worst forms of child labor.

DOT Reports May 2010 Surface Trade with Canada and Mexico Rose 39.5%

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:10:28 -0400

The DOT's Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that trade using surface transportation between the U.S. and its North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) partners Canada and Mexico was 39.5 percent higher in May 2010 than in May 2009, reaching $66.8 billion. The 39.5 percent increase was the largest percentage year over year increase in total U.S.-NAFTA trade by surface modes on record back to April 1994.

WCO Announces Pakistani Heroin Seizure by UN-WCO Container Control Unit

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:30:52 -0400

In a July 29,2010 press release, the World Customs Organization announced a recent seizure by Pakistani officials of 90 kilograms of heroin in a container shipment bound for Europe. This seizure is the largest to date in a number of significant seizures made by the Port Control Unit in Karachi since the team was created under the auspices of the joint UNODC-WCO Container Control Programme (CCP). Units of the CCP are trained by experts from WCO Member Customs administrations with the support of UNODC personnel to profile containers on the basis of WCO risk indicators. The initial sites for CCP implementation in Pakistan were the container terminals in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest and busiest seaport and Port Qasim but now include an additional seven inland container terminals.

CITES Announces Caspian States Agreement on 2010 Quotas for Wild Caviar

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:46:27 -0400

On July 23, 2010, the Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora published the export quotas for caviar and other sturgeon products agreed to by the Caspian States for 2010. The 2010 quotas were agreed by Azerbaijan, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Kazakhstan, the Russian Federation and Turkmenistan during a meeting held in Tehran. The quota year for export of caviar and sturgeon meat runs from March 1, 2010 to February 28, 2011, in order to reflect the fishing season. The quantities that can be exported are lower than in 2008, when export quotas were last published. The countries that share the Black Sea and Lower Danube sturgeon populations (Bulgaria, Romania and Serbia) and the Heilongjiang/Amur River population (China and the Russian Federation) have not yet informed the CITES Secretariat about their quotas for this year. In 2009, the lack of agreement between the five Caspian countries resulted in a suspension of wild caviar imports from those countries.

Updated Sea AMS Data Processing Service Providers List

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:09:32 -0400

CBP has posted an updated list of companies/persons offering sea Automated Manifest System data processing services to the trade community.

CBP Posts Updated ESAR A2.2 Programming Issues Spreadsheet

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:15:26 -0400

CBP has posted an updated version of its spreadsheet of ESAR A2.2 programming issues.

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:28:26 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

Senegal - New Senegalese Minister of Agriculture Named: Agriculture in the News
Israel - Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Narrative: FAIRS Country Report
Russian Federation - Custom Union Update July 2010: Sanitary/Phytosanitary/Food Safety, Policy and Program Announcements
Paraguay - Biofuels Annual: Paraguay
Australia - Ag DownUnder - Issue 5 - 2010: Agriculture in the News, Grain and Feed, Oilseeds and Products, Livestock and Products, Market Promotion/Competition
Italy - Italy Stone Fruit Report 2010: Stone Fruit
Thailand - Rice Price – Weekly: Weekly Rice Price Update
Burma - Beans and Pulses Monthly Trade Report - June: Grain and Feed
Kenya - Kenya Corn Update Report: Grain and Feed

Senator Reid Introduces Clean Energy, Coral Reef, Home Star Bill

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:54:02 -0400

On July 27, 2010, Senator Reid (D) introduced the "Clean Energy Jobs and Oil Company Accountability Act of 2010". The bill would invest $5 billion in a Home Star retrofit rebate program and promote the manufacturing and deployment of clean vehicles that use natural gas and electricity. The bill also has provisions on coral reef ecosystems and would make it unlawful for any person to destroy, take, cause the loss of, or injure any coral reef or any component thereof. The bill would hold BP and all the oil companies involved in the Gulf Coast oil spill fully accountable for the true costs of the damages they caused. The bill as introduced does not appear to include any international reserve allowance or border (import) tax provisions.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:17:28 -0400

Scope Ruling on Antidumping Duty Order on Ball Bearings and Parts Thereof from The United Kingdom (A-412-201) Hawker Pacific Aerospace Ball Assembly for a Locking Spring Within Scope Message No.: 0207302
Scope Ruling on Antidumping Duty Order on Certain Steel Nails from China (A-570-909) Message No.: 0207301

Revisions to Incoterms Take Effect January 1, 2011

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:23:32 -0400

The U.S. Council for International Business (USCIB) states that Incoterms® 2010 rules by the International Chamber of Commerce will take effect on January 1, 2011. Shippers, credit executives and others involved in international trade need to familiarize themselves with imminent changes to the global rules governing terminology used in international sales contracts. The USCIB plans a nationwide series of seminars beginning in September to explain the changes.

Visit www.iccincoterms2010.org for a full list of seminar dates and locations, and to register. Pre-orders of the official ICC publication, Incoterms® 2010, which goes on sale September 1, 2010, are being accepted at the ICC Books USA website (www.store.iccbooksusa.net).

CPSC Seeks Comments on Draft Strategic Plan for 2011-2016

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:53:04 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a draft 2011-2016 Strategic Plan for public comment. According to CPSC, the plan recognizes and accounts for CPSC’s new legislative mandates, the growing global supply chain, and technological advances in consumer products. It reflects CPSC’s commitment to proactively address and reduce consumer product hazards and is the result of a six-month strategic planning process involving a wide range of internal and external CPSC stakeholders. Comments are due August 9, 2010.

Senators, Representatives Call on President to Investigate China Paper Subsidies

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:51:53 -0400

Senators Snowe (R) and Collins (R) and Representatives Michaud (D) and Pingree (D) called on President Obama to conduct an in-depth examination of China’s unfair subsidization of its domestic paper industry. These Senator and Representatives were joined by over 100 lawmakers from 30 states in asking the President to use the study as the basis for action to remedy unfair trade practices.

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:22:56 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

CIT Denies Ford Motor's Claims for Reconcilation Duty Refunds

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:59:58 -0400

In Ford Motor Company, v. U.S. et al., the Court of International Trade denied Ford’s request to liquidate and refund duties paid on ten reconciliation entries of imported Jaguar brand vehicles. The CIT dismissed all of Ford’s claims on grounds ranging from lack of case or controversy, lack of jurisdiction, mootness, or in some instances, at the Court’s discretion.

CPSC Announces Open Meetings with Industry Stakeholders

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:11:38 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has updated its list of meetings between CPSC and industry stakeholders that are open to the public, unless otherwise stated:

Chairman Tenenbaum and staff meeting with Karen Cohen and Ken Nahigian of the ZAC Foundation to discuss Pool and Spa Safety; 08/03/10; and
Commissioner Adler and staff meeting with Karen Cohn of the ZAC Foundation to discuss CPSC's interpretation of the VGB Pool and Spa Safety Act; 08/03/10.

Commerce Secretary Highlights Partnership With UPS for Boosting Exports

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 11:03:56 -0400

Commerce Secretary Locke visited the UPS Global Operations Center in Louisville, Ky., on July 28, 2010 to highlight opportunities for local Kentucky businesses to sell their goods and services abroad and support job creation in their community. Locke toured the facility and held a discussion with local business owners on how the Commerce Department can help them grow their businesses and create jobs. Expanding on an existing partnership, UPS has joined with the Commerce Department to identify new markets for current exporters and potential candidates to expand their exports with the help of Department resources through the New Market Exporter Initiative.

China Bank Official Speaks on Exchange Rate Reform

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 11:37:29 -0400

In a July 26, 2010 speech, Deputy Governor Hu Xiaolian of the People's Bank of China praised China's actions toward having a more flexible exchange regime, noting numerous benefits to China's domestic economy and monetary policy. However, she said that China cannot afford to lose monetary policy independence and subject itself to the economic policies of other countries.

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:28:47 -0400

Brazil: Maize
Brazil: Medicines
Brazil: Active pharmaceutical ingredients
Costa Rica: Medicines
Japan: Substances with probable effects on the central nerve system

CPSC Makes Moves to Lift Testing/Certification Stay for Children's Textiles, Mattresses

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:14:01 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is scheduled to vote by August 4, 2010 on draft Federal Register notices establishing accreditation requirements for third-party labs to test: (1) children’s clothing textiles pursuant the Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles; and (2) children’s mattresses pursuant to the Standard for the Flammability of Mattresses and Mattress Pads and/or Standard for the Flammability (Open Flame) of Mattress Sets. Publication of these notices would effectively lift the stay of enforcement of the CPSIA testing and certification requirements for such products 90 days after publication.

CBP News Releases

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:26:12 -0400

CBP has issued the following news releases:

TWIC Announces ID Requirements for U.S. Citizens Born Outside U.S. and non-U.S. Citizens

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 07:03:57 -0400

The Transportation Security Administration states that after August 16, 2010, U.S. citizens born outside of the U.S. and non-U.S. citizens will not be allowed to enroll for a TWIC unless the required identity and immigration documents are presented during enrollment. See list of required documents at www.tsa.gov/twic.

SEC Charges General Electric and Two Subsidiaries with FCPA Violations

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 07:34:40 -0400

The Securities and Exchange Commission on July 27, 2010 charged General Electric Company with violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act for its involvement in a $3.6 million kickback scheme with Iraqi government agencies to win contracts to supply medical equipment and water purification equipment. "GE failed to maintain adequate internal controls to detect and prevent these illicit payments by its two subsidiaries to win Oil for Food contracts, and it failed to properly record the true nature of the payments in its accounting records" according to the Chief of the SEC's Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Unit.

Trade-Related Bills Introduced on July 26-27

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 09:07:32 -0400

On July 26 and July 27, 2010, the following trade-related bills were introduced:

Port security	S. 3659. A bill to reauthorize certain port security programs, and for other purposes
Border security	H.R. 5875. A bill making emergency supplemental appropriations for border security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010, and for other purposes
Toy warning labels	H.R. 5887. A bill to amend the Federal Hazardous Substances Act to require the inclusion of warning labels on Internet and catalogue advertising of certain toys and games
FTA implementation	H. Res. 1562. A resolution recognizing the importance of trade to job creation and the U.S. economy and calling for the immediate implementation of the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, U.S.-Panama Free Trade Agreement, and U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement
DOT appropriations	S. 3644. An original bill making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2011

House Passes 2010 Supplemental Appropriations Bill

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:01:02 -0400

On July 27, 2010, the House agreed to the Senate amendment of H.R. 4899, the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2010. (A previous version of H.R. 4899 contained provisions for funding enforcement on the Southwest border, restricting funding for contracts without Iran Sanctions certifications, etc.)

Online Registration for August 4 COAC Meeting Available

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:15:32 -0400

The online registration for the August 4, 2010 COAC meeting is now available on CBP's website.

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:50:50 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

House Passes Federal Advisory Committee Act Amendments Bill

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:32:41 -0400

On July 26, 2010, the House passed H.R. 1320, amended, to amend the Federal Advisory Committee Act to increase the transparency and accountability of Federal advisory committees.

Reports on Fur Labeling, Clean Energy Technology/Export Assistance, Carbon Monoxide Detector Bills Filed in House

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:23:17 -0400

On July 27, 2010, reports for the following bills were filed in the House:

H.R. 2480, to improve the accuracy of fur product labeling, with an amendment (H. Rept. 111-571);
H.R. 5156, to provide for the establishment of a Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Fund to assist United States businesses with exporting clean energy technology products and services, with an amendment (H. Rept. 111-572, Pt. 1); and
H.R. 1796, to amend the Consumer Product Safety Act to require residential carbon monoxide detectors to meet the applicable ANSI/UL standard by treating that standard as a consumer product safety rule, to encourage States to require the installation of such detectors in homes, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 111-573).

President Signs Resolution Renewing Burma Import Ban, Jadeite/Ruby Sanctions

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:16:38 -0400

On July 27, 2010, President Obama signed into law H.J. Res. 83, which renews the import restrictions contained in the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003.

MOFCOM Announces 108th China Import and Export Fair Begins Oct 15

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:22:39 -0400

China's Ministry of Commerce is announcing the 108th China Import and Export Fair, also called the Canton Fair, which is China's largest trade fair of the highest level. The fair will be held from October 15 to November 4, 2010, in the China Import and Export Fair Complex, No. 382, Yuejiang Zhong Road, Guangzhou, China. The official website for the fair is www.cantonfair.org.cn.

Treasury Lists Countries Requiring Cooperation With International Boycotts

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:51:28 -0400

The Treasury Department is publishing a current list of countries which require or may require participation in, or cooperation with, an international boycott, which are: Kuwait; Lebanon; Libya; Qatar; Saudi Arabia; Syria; United Arab Emirates; and Yemen. Treasury notes that Iraq is not included in this list, but its status with respect to future lists remains under review.

Appeals Court Says EPA Misbranding Authority is Ripe for Review

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:07:18 -0400

The Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (CADC) has ruled that manufacturers may appeal Environmental Protection Agency “misbranding” actions in district court when the agency’s actions effectively threaten to cancel a product’s registration without due hearings and argument.

Deputry USTR Meets with Malaysian Officials, Discuss IPR, TPP, Etc.

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 16:11:44 -0400

Deputy USTR Marantis recently went to Malaysia to attend meetings with Malaysian Government officials and business leaders. The government meetings focused on Malaysia's planned market opening in the financial sector. Marantis also addressed implementation of Malaysia's new competition law and efforts to strengthen Malaysia's intellectual property regime. He updated his Malaysian Government counterparts on the Obama Administration's trade policy goals, including the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Canada Lists Requirements for Import, Manufacture of Formaldehyde

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:21:28 -0400

Canad's Department of the Environment has issued a notice stating that it permits the manufacture or import of the following in accordance with the conditions listed: Formaldehyde, polymer with N1-(2-aminoethyl)-N2[2-[(2-aminoethyl)amino]ethyl]-1,2-ethanediamine, alkane bis oxymethyleneoxirane, 4,4′-(1-methylethylidene)bis[phenol] and 2,2′-[(1-methylethylidene)bis(4,1-phenyleneoxymethylene)]bis [oxirane], reaction products with Bu glycidyl ether and 1-[[2-[(2-aminoethyl)amino]ethyl]amino]-3-phenoxy-2-propanol, acetates (salts).

NAM, Farmers and Service Coalition List Policy Changes Needed to Double Exports

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:12:43 -0400

On July 26, 2010, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the Coalition of Service Industries and the National Association of Manufacturers put forth a comprehensive approach to double U.S. exports in five years – a key goal of President Obama’s. Under this approach, the three organizations outline policy changes needed to improve market access and level the playing field in a competitive global market. These changes include enacting pending trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea, pursuing new trade agreements, reducing non-tariff barriers, and improving competitiveness with investments in infrastructure and trade facilitation initiatives.

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:49:16 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

El Salvador - Biotechnology - GE Plants and Animals: Annual
Thailand - Rice Price – Weekly: Weekly Rice Price Update
Vietnam - Rice Price – Weekly: 2010
Vietnam - Rice Price – Weekly: 2010
Vietnam - Circular 18 Regulates Pesticide Sales and Distribution: Agricultural Situation, Policy and Program Announcements
Zimbabwe - Grain and Feed Quarterly Update: Grain and Feed
Mexico - Mexico Aims to Streamline Standards: Policy and Program Announcements, Sanitary/Phytosanitary/Food Safety, Beverages, Cotton and Products, Dairy and Products, Dried Fruit, Fishery Products, Food Processing Ingredients Sector, Fresh Fruit, Grain and Feed, Livestock and Products, Pest/Disease Occurrences, Potatoes and Potato Products, Organic Products, Sugar, Tree Nuts, Wood Products
Canada - Biofuels Annual: Canada Biofuels Annual

OFAC Issues Updated Guidance on Blocked Funds

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:46:01 -0400

The Office of Foreign Assets Control has issued revised "Guidance on the Release of Limited Amounts of Blocked Funds for Payment of Legal Fees and Costs Incurred in Challenging the Blocking of U.S. Persons in Administrative or Civil Proceedings."

OFAC has revised the policy, inter alia, so that its overall attorney fee and cost caps do not apply for applications submitted by a blocked party who has not been designated but whose property and interests in property have been "blocked pending investigation." Such a blocked party must meet all other requirements of the policy before obtaining access to blocked funds, and the hourly fee cap of $125 will continue to be applied to such applications. This revision to the policy applies only to pending and future licensing applications submitted pursuant to this policy as of July 23, 2010, and will not be applied retroactively to persons whose property or interests in property previously were blocked pending investigation but who are not longer in that status.

ITC Institutes Patent Investigation of Inkjet Supplies Brought by Hewlett-Packard

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 09:10:51 -0400

The International Trade Commission has instituted a section 337 patent-based investigation of certain inkjet ink supplies and components thereof, pursuant to a complaint filed by Hewlett-Packard Company of Palo Alto, CA, and Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. of Houston, TX against seven respondents (Inv. No. 337-TA-730).

U.S., India Sign Counterterrorism MOU on Border Security, Etc

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 09:36:48 -0400

On July 23, 2010, U.S. Ambassador to India Roemer signed the Counterterrorism Cooperation Initiative (CCI) Memorandum of Understanding with India's Home Affairs Secretary Pillai. The CCI establishes specific areas where the two countries will work together to expand collaboration on counterterrorism, such as transportation security, border security, money laundering and terrorist financing, and mega-city policing.

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:40:22 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

ITA Seeks Comments on Cybersecurity and Internet Economy

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:39:44 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued a notice of inquiry regarding the nexus between cybersecurity challenges in the commercial sector and innovation in the Internet economy. The ITA seeks comments from all stakeholders, including the commercial, academic and civil society sectors, on measures to improve cybersecurity while sustaining innovation. Comments are due by September 13, 2010.

Foreign Trade Zone Board Actions and Notices

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:36:56 -0400

The Foreign Trade Zone Board has issued the following notice:

FTZ 201 – Grants of Authority for Subzone Status: Foreign Trade Subzone 201C; Whately and South Deerfield, MA

ATF Proposes Regulations for Certain Cigarette/Tobacco Trafficking

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:39:03 -0400

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives has issued a proposed rule to implement certain provisions of the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 relating to trafficking in contraband cigarettes or smokeless tobacco. Comments are due by October 26, 2010.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recall

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:41:46 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recall:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
Youth and Adult Brine VIP Lacrosse Gloves: Violation of Lead Paint Standard	Brine, a division of Warrior Sports Inc. (MI)	10-310

APHIS Animal Product PPQ Manual Updated

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:44:01 -0400

On July 26, 2010, APHIS updated its Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Animal Product Manual. This Manual provides the background, procedures, and regulatory actions to enforce the regulations governing the import and export of animals, animal products, and animal by-products.

FSIS Updates List of Canadian Firms That Export Meat & Poultry to U.S.

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:46:51 -0400

The Food Safety and Inspection Service has issued updated versions of its list of Canadian (July 23, 2010) firms eligible to export meat and poultry to the U.S.

AAR International Settles AECA, ITAR Defense Export Violations

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:03:51 -0400

The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls announces that AAR International, Inc. has entered into a consent agreement to settle 13 violations of the Arms Export Control Act and International Traffic in Arms Regulations in connection with the unauthorized export of defense articles by Presidential Airways, Inc. and its affiliates Aviation Worldwide Services, LLC; Air Quest, Inc,; STI Aviation, Inc,; and EP Aviation, LLC.

CBP Border Patrol Weekly Blotter for July 15 - 21

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:40:04 -0400

CBP has posted the U.S. Border Patrol Weekly Blotter for July 15 - 21, 2010. The Blotter provides information on Border Patrol activities during the specified week.

EC Proposes Consolidated Tractor Trailer Equipment Standards

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:44:19 -0400

The European Commission has proposed to simplify European Union law on agricultural and forestry vehicles (tractors, trailers and towed equipment) so that 50 Directives and the related implementing legislation of 27 Member States would be replaced by just five Regulations. The proposal also foresees increased safety for these vehicles.

Slovenia Becomes Member of OECD

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:44:33 -0400

On July 21, 2010, Slovenia became a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, pledging its full dedication to achieving OECD's aims.

FHWA Seeks Proposals for FY 2012 International Scanning Program

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:41:08 -0400

The Federal Highway Administration has announced that it is seeking proposals for the fiscal year 2012 cycle of the International Technology Scanning Program (ITSP). The ITSP enables U.S. highway professionals to evaluate innovative technologies and practices in other countries that could significantly improve highway transportation in the U.S. Proposals are due by September 30, 2010.

OTEXA Announces Free Webinar on Brazil Apparel Market

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:41:24 -0400

The Office of Textiles and Apparel has announced a free webinar on export market opportunities in selected markets in Brazil for apparel firms that will be held on July 29, 2010. The focus will be on small and medium sized companies in the retail apparel industry. Presentations will feature information and background on export opportunities, trends in exporting apparel products to Brazil, and how to begin developing market entry strategies.

3 from Congress Work with USDA for Approval of Cattle Export from Maine

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:46:58 -0400

U.S. Senators Snowe and Collins along with Congressman Michaud announced on July 16, 2010 that the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service approved a shipment of 500 cattle from Eastport, Maine. A Texas-based company’s request to utilize Eastport, Maine as a special port of embarkation for 500 dairy heifers to Turkey had been in limbo due to bureaucratic challenges relating to port and livestock inspections.

EU Reminds Carriers 24 Hour Advance Data Required from Jan 1, 2011

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:49:18 -0400

In guidance documents on the European Union's import procedures, the EU reminds carriers that after January 1, 2011, the EU will require that the entry summary declaration (ENS) be filed at least 24 hours before loading in each foreign port.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:38:33 -0400

Non-Review Liquidation Instructions for Uncovered Innerspring Units from The Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the Period 08/06/2008 Through 11/30/2009 Message No.: 0202305
Automatic Liquidation Instructions for Silicomanganese from India for the Period 05/01/2009 Through 04/30/2010 (A-533-823) Message No.: 0202304
Notice of Final Determination in the Antidumping Duty Investigation of Narrow Woven Ribbons With Woven Selvedge from Taiwan (A-583-844) Message No.: 0202302

Asst USTR Concludes 2nd Asia-Pacific Meeting on Trade in Legally Harvested Trees

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:24:26 -0400

Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Linscott has concluded the second meeting of the Asia-Pacific Regional Dialogue to promote trade in legally harvested forest products. Countries participating in the July 2010 dialogue in Seattle included Australia, Cambodia, China, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Thailand and Vietnam. Linscott stated that “this second meeting of the Regional Dialogue continued the constructive discussions that we started last year in Jakarta. We exchanged information, described our respective efforts and explored collaborative, regional approaches to address the challenges associated with promoting legal trade and combating illegal trade.” (The first meeting of the broader Regional Dialogue took place in Jakarta, Indonesia in September 2009 and included nine Asia-Pacific countries that share concerns with illegal logging and associated international trade. Based on the success of that meeting, the United States and Indonesia agreed to move forward with a larger group of countries in the region.)

CBP Posts TSN Great Idea Form

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:37:23 -0400

CBP has posted the following Trade Support Network GIF:

CSPO GIF 1144 (ACT 069) Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB) Report

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:17:49 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

CBP Experiencing Issues with ACE Reports

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:26:41 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message stating that it is currently experiencing a problem with creating a new ACE report and modifying existing reports. The “canned” ACE reports are working correctly. CBP will be delivering a production repair on Tuesday evening, July 27, 2010.

(CSMS #10-000179, dated 07/23/10)

July 14, 2010 CBP Bulletin Has 2 Ruling Notices

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:33:42 -0400

U.S. Customs and Border Protection's July 14, 2010 Customs Bulletin (Volume 44, No. 29) contains 2 notices of ruling actions, as follows:

Revocation of Ruling and Revocation of Treatment Relating to the Tariff Classification of a Certain “Shamu Snak Pak”
Modification and Revocation of Rulings and Revocation of Treatment Relating to the Tariff Classification of Certain Driver Organizers

CPSC Seeks Comment on Technological Feasibility of Children's 100 ppm Lead Content Limit

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:42:42 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a notice seeking comments and information by September 24, 2010 on the technological feasibility of meeting the 100 parts per million lead content limit for children’s products. The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act provides that, as of August 11, 2011, children’s products may not contain more than 100 ppm of lead, unless CPSC determines it is not technologically feasible for a specific product or product category to meet the limit.

Montreal Port Announces Labor Agreement, Work to Resume at Terminals

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:10:24 -0400

The Montreal Port Authority has issued a press release announcing that the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) and its longshore labor force have reached an agreement allowing work to resume at the Port of Montreal’s terminals. According to the Port Authority, following this back to work agreement, here is the situation at the Port of Montreal:

The terminals affected by the labor dispute were to resume operation on July 24, 2010 at 8:00 a.m.
All rail traffic has resumed.
Construction work continues.
Vessels that were diverted and not unloaded in another port are en route back to the Port of Montreal.
The Port entrances at Berri, Viau and Hector-Barsalou streets remain open. The other entrances will gradually reopen.

CBP Posts CATAIR Amendment 51

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:01:35 -0400

CBP has posted Amendment 51 to the Customs and Trade Automated Interface Requirements document. The following sections were revised: Daily Statement, Foreign Trade Zone, Appendix B (Valid Codes), and Appendix P (FTZ Error Messages).

CBP Posts Exchange Rate Multipliers for Week Ending July 23

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:04:11 -0400

CBP has posted the weekly foreign currency exchange rate multipliers for the week ending July 23, 2010.

CBP Posts Outbound Issues Webinar Presentation

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:14:25 -0400

CBP has posted the webinar recording and the presentation from its June 10, 2010 webinar on outbound issues. The presentation covers the process and common reasons for detentions and seizures of exports, among other things.

CBP Announces August 1 Opening for Certain Cotton TRQs

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 18:45:30 -0400

CBP has issued memos announcing the August 1, 2010 opening (for the quota period of 08/01/10- 07/31/11) of the following Uruguay Rounds/GATT cotton tariff rate quotas:

Harsh or rough cotton, not carded or combed, the product of any country or area including the U.S., and described in HTS Chapter 52, Additional U.S. Note 6 with an in-quota (low-duty) restraint level of 1,400,000 kg (QBT-10-536)
Cotton, not carded or combed, the product of any country or area including the U.S., and described in HTS Chapter 52, Additional U.S. Note 7 with an in-quota restraint level of 11,500,000 kg (QBT-10-537)
Cotton, not carded or combed, the product of any country or area including the U.S., and described in HTS Chapter 52, Additional U.S. Note 8 with an in-quota restraint level of 40,100,000 kg (QBT-10-538)

CBP states that articles that are the product of Mexico shall not be permitted or included in the aforementioned TRQs and no such articles shall be classified therein.

In addition, articles that are the product of countries or areas who are not members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) shall not be permitted or included in these TRQs.

Federal Reserve Chairman Acknowledges China Currency Policy as a Subsidy at Senate Hearing

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:25:25 -0400

During the question and answer portion of a July 21, 2010 Senate Banking Committee hearing on the Federal Reserves Semiannual Monetary Policy Report to Congress, the press reports that Federal Reserve Chairman Bernanke stated that, broadly speaking, China's currency policy is a type of subsidy, noting that the literature has reported its value at 10-30%.

EU Official Journal Notices for July 22, 2010

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:44:31 -0400

In the July 22, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation on guidelines for the development of national co-existence measures to avoid the unintended presence of GMOs in conventional and organic crops; and
Euro exchange rates.

Export.gov Announces Export Seminars

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:26:18 -0400

Export.gov has announced a series of export seminars sponsored by Fedex and supported by the West Virginia District Export Council, local Chambers of Commerce, and Economic Development Authorities to help companies compete in the global marketplace. The next seminar, “European Union Standards,” will be held July 23, 2010 in Martinsburg, WV.

OFAC Blocks Individual in U.S./Yemen Under Terrorism EO

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:42:34 -0400

The Office of Foreign Assets Control is publishing the name of one newly-designated individual, who is a citizen of the U.S. and Yemen, whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to Executive Order 13224, “Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions With Persons Who Commit, Threaten To Commit, or Support Terrorism,” and the Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations.

AMS Requests Comments on Possible Frozen Vegetable Grade Revisions

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:40:49 -0400

The Agricultural Marketing Service is soliciting comments on the possible revisions to eighteen U.S. grade standards for frozen vegetables issued on or before July 22, 1985 pursuant to its annual review, which include revising certain grade terms. Comments are due by September 21, 2010.

CBP Fixes Issue with Bar Codes Not Being Displayed in Truck e-Manifest Cover Sheets

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:21:45 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message stating that it has resolved a previously announced issue in which the bar code was not being displayed on cover sheets for truck e-Manifest. The trip cover sheets printed from the ACE Portal should now display a bar code. (See ITT's Online Archives or 07/20/10 news, 10071934, for BP summary announcing this issue.)

(CSMS #10-000176, dated 07/22/10)

OFAC Block 2 Entities in Mexico Under Kingpin Act

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:41:59 -0400

The Office of Foreign Assets Control has designated two Mexican entities, Arte y Diseno de Culiacan S.A. de C.V. and Autotransportes JYM S.A. de C.V., pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act, which prohibits U.S. persons from conducting financial or commercial transactions with the two designated entities and freezes any assets they may have under U.S. jurisdiction.

Canada to Require Account Number on Animal Import and Export Certificates

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:26:50 -0400

As of September 1, 2010 importers and exporters of cattle, bison and sheep will be asked to provide their Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) or Agri-Traçabilité Québec (ATQ) database account number on animal health export certificates and import permits. Adding the database account number to import permits and export certificates will enhance Canada’s ability to track animals entering or leaving the country. Producers can contact the CCIA at 1-877-909-2333 or the ATQ at 1-866-270-4319 for their database account number.

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:18:45 -0400

Ukraine: Meat and meat products (HS 0202 - 0206, 0209, 1601, 1602)
Ukraine: Milk and milk products (HS 0401-0406, 1901, 2105 & 2106)
Ukraine: Meat and edible by-products of poultry (HS 0105, 0207, 0209, 1501, 1601 & 1602)

CBP Updates List of NVOCC Participants in Sea AMS

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 09:02:16 -0400

CBP has posted an updated list of non-vessel operating common carrier sea Automated Manifest System (AMS) participants.

TSCA Reform Bill Introduced in House

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 09:25:37 -0400

On July 22. 2010, following hearings and an extended stakeholder process in response to the release of a discussion draft in April, Representative Rush (D), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection, and Representative Waxman (D), Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, introduced H.R. 5820, the Toxic Chemicals Safety Act of 2010, a bill aimed at strengthening and updating the decades-old Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) of 1976, the primary statute governing the safety of chemicals in commerce.

Resolution Renewing Burma Import Ban, Jadeite/Ruby Sanctions Cleared for President

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 09:14:58 -0400

On July 22, 2010, the Senate passed H.J. Res. 83, a resolution approving the renewal of import restrictions contained in the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003, clearing the measure for the President.

CBP Posts COAC's Global Supply Chain Security Subcommittee Report, Meeting Minutes, Etc.

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 09:18:51 -0400

CBP has posted the following documents related to COAC's Global Supply Chain Security Subcommittee: membership directory, final report, and minutes from meetings held on April 16, April 29, May 6, May 13, May 20, June 2, June 10, June 30, and July 2.

BIS Announces Update 2010 Export Conference

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 10:46:47 -0400

The Bureau of Industry and Security announces the Update 2010 Conference on Export Controls and Policy on August 31-September 2, 2010, which gives the exporting community the opportunity to learn first-hand from senior U.S. Government officials about current issues and trends in export control policies, regulations and practices.

Commerce Secretary Locke Held Talks with Korean Minister on Trade & Investment Issues

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 10:12:56 -0400

Commerce Secretary Locke and Korea's Minister of Knowledge-Economy Choi confirmed on July 20, 2010 the importance of strengthening the U.S.-Korea commercial relationship and continuing to deepen cooperation on trade and investment issues. Both expressed interest in finding a way forward on the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA).

TTB Finalizes Excise Tax Increases, Criteria for Denial of Tobacco Permits, Etc.

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 08:44:05 -0400

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau is adopting as a final rule, with minor technical changes, effective August 23, 2010, temporary regulations that implemented increases in Federal excise tax rates on tobacco products and cigarette papers and tubes, the floor stocks tax provisions of the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009, and the new statutory criteria for denial, suspension, or revocation of tobacco permits.

DOE Repeals Cooking Efficiency Test Procedure for Microwave Ovens

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:55:29 -0400

The Department of Energy is issuing a supplemental notice to its proposed rule on manufacturer test procedures for microwave ovens, which proposes definitions of modes and language to clarify measurement of standby mode and off mode power consumption. DOE will hold a meeting on these issues on September 16, 2010. DOE has also issued a final rule which repeals the regulatory provisions establishing the cooking efficiency test procedure for manufacturers of microwave ovens.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recall

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:45:43 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recall:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
Bamboo Torches: Laceration Hazard	Atico International USA Inc. (FL)	10-306

CBP Posts Quota FAQs

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:38:24 -0400

CBP has posted a compilation of frequently asked questions on quota to provide a useful consolidated resource for information on quota-related topics.

Senate Begins Consideration of House Resolution to Renew Burma Import Ban, Jadeite/Ruby Sanctions

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 10:33:40 -0400

On July 22, 2010, the Senate will begin consideration of H.J. Res. 83, approving the renewal of import restrictions contained in the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003. (The House passed H.J. Res. 83 on July 14, 2010, see ITT's Online Archives or 07/16/10 news, 10071628, for BP summary of H.J. Res. 83.)

House Committee Reports Registered Agent, Manufacturing Strategy, Etc. Bills

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 10:10:35 -0400

On July 21, 2010, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce ordered reported, amended, the following bills: H.R. 4678, Foreign Manufacturer Legal Accountability Act of 2010; H.R. 4692, National Manufacturing Strategy Act of 2010; and H.R. 5156, Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act of 2010.

ITC Investigation Notices

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:51:27 -0400

The International Trade Commission has issued notices on:

OFAC Blocks 9 Individuals, 13 Entities Under Narcotics EO

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:46:49 -0400

The Office of Foreign Assets Control is publishing the names of nine individuals and 13 entities in Colombia, Mexico, Panama, and Spain whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to Executive Order 12978, “Blocking Assets and Prohibiting Transactions with Significant Narcotics Traffickers," effective July 15, 2010.

FTC Joins APEC Network of Privacy Enforcement Authorities

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:42:54 -0400

The Federal Trade Commission has joined an agreement with privacy enforcement authorities from other member economies of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation forum. The agreement provides a framework for agencies from different APEC member economies to help each other with enforcement investigations. It also enhances information sharing among these agencies. The APEC privacy enforcement agreement, known as the Cross-border Privacy Enforcement Arrangement, also advances the FTC’s use of the U.S. SAFE WEB Act.

EPA Issues Significant New Use Rule for Certain Mercury Use

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:44:52 -0400

The Environmental Protection Agency has issued a final rule, effective August 20, 2010, to issue a significant new use rule under section 5(a)(2) of the Toxic Substances Control Act for elemental mercury (CAS No. 7439976) for use in flow meters, natural gas manometers, and pyrometers, except for use in these articles when they are in service as of September 11, 2009. This action will require persons who intend to manufacture (including import) or process elemental mercury for an activity that is designated as a significant new use by this rule to notify EPA at least 90 days before commencing that activity.

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:10:22 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

Russian Federation - Fish and Seafood Production and Trade Update: Fishery Products
Zimbabwe - Cotton and products annual report
Venezuela - Food basket price rose 8.43 percent in April: Agricultural Situation
Pakistan - Oilseeds and Products Annual: 2010
Japan - U.S. Beef Fair at Hotel Nikko Osaka: ATO ACTIVITIES reports
Philippines - Hog Industry Updates: Livestock and Products
India - Weekly Highlights and Hot Bites No. 28: Agriculture in the News
Pakistan - Pakistan Flour Millers End Strike: Grain and Feed
Brazil - Agricultural Situation: Brazil Announces Credit Package for 2010-11 Crop Year
United Kingdom EU-27 - Crop update - weather creates uncertainty if not concern: Grain and Feed
Argentina - Raisin Annual: 2010

FSIS Issues Notices for its Inspection Personnel and Public

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:11:04 -0400

FSIS has issued the following notices:

Notice 37-10 (July 16, 2010): Communicating with the Office of Inspector General (OIG)
Notice 38-10 (July 20, 2010): Fifth Food Defense Plan Survey

TSA Webinar on August 1 Air Cargo Mandatory Screening on July 27

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:17:33 -0400

The Department of Commerce and the Department of Homeland Security are co-hosting a webinar on July 27, 2010, at 1 p.m Eastern Time. Participants will be informed of the details of the August 1, 2010 requirement that every shipment (100%) of cargo flown on passenger aircraft originating in the U.S. must be screened at the piece level - which is the individual item within a shipment - before loading. The webinar will also cover TSA’s voluntary Certified Cargo Screening Program (CCSP), through which trusted shippers and forwarders can pre-screen their cargo and avoid delays. Speakers will include Marc Rossi, Branch Chief, Certified Cargo Screening Program, Transportation Security Administration. Register for this webinar here.

CBP Posts Updated Public ACS FIRMS Report

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:16:17 -0400

CBP's Weekly TRQ/TPL Commodity Report as of July 19

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:25:07 -0400

CBP has issued its weekly tariff rate quota and tariff preference level commodity report as of July 19, 2010. This report includes TRQs on various products such as beef, sugar, dairy products, peanuts, cotton, cocoa products, and tobacco; and certain BFTA, DR-CAFTA, Israel FTA, JFTA, MFTA, OFTA, SFTA, UAFTA (AFTA) and UCFTA (Chile FTA) non-textile TRQs; etc. Each report also includes the AGOA, ATPDEA, BFTA, DR-CAFTA, CBTPA, Haitian HOPE, MFTA, NAFTA, OFTA, SFTA, and UCFTA TPLs and TRQs for qualifying textile articles and/or other articles; the TRQs on worsted wool fabrics; etc.

Trade-Related Hearings for July 21

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:06:55 -0400

On July 21, 2010, the following trade-related hearings will be held:

House Committee on Energy and Commerce Committee’s mark up of H.R. 4678, Foreign Manufacturer Legal Accountability Act of 2010, H.R. 4692, National Manufacturing Strategy Act of 2010, and H.R. 5156, Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act of 2010.
House Committee on Small Business hearing entitled Impact of Intellectual Property on Entrepreneurship and Job Creation.
House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure’s Subcommittee on Highway and Transit hearing on Oversight of the Highway Bridge Program and the National Bridge Inspection Program
House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, hearing on Assessing the Merida Initiative: A Report from the GAO.
Senate Committee on Appropriations’ Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies business meeting to mark up proposed budget estimates for fiscal year 2011 for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies.
Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs hearing to examine the semiannual monetary policy report to the Congress.
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing to examine Security and Accountability For Every (SAFE) Port Act reauthorization, focusing on U.S. infrastructure.
Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing to examine the Homeland Security Department's Quadrennial Homeland Security Review and Bottom Up Review.

EU Appeals WTO Airbus Panel Report

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:48:16 -0400

The European Union announced it is appealing the June 2010 World Trade Organization panel report on EU subsidization of Airbus (DS316) as there are aspects of the report which “need to be corrected or clarified.” The appeal covers a number of panel findings, including that: certain instances of repayable launch investment for the A380 are export subsidies; there is a causal link between Airbus support and adverse effects to Boeing; and certain infrastructure measures taken by EU Member States constitute subsidies.

House Passes Miscellaneous Trade Bill

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 16:52:55 -0400

On July 21, 2010, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4380, the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act of 2009 by a vote of 378 yeas and 43 nays. According to Congressional sources, the version of H.R. 4380 passed by the House was the House Ways and Means Committee’s draft manager’s amendment with some technical changes, including the insertion of one additional section that was accidentally omitted, and a name change.

ITC Institutes Patent Inv. of Semiconductor Products Against Samsung, Etc.

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 17:22:08 -0400

The International Trade Commission has instituted a section 337 patent-based investigation of certain semiconductor products made by advanced lithography techniques and products containing same, pursuant to a complaint filed by STC.UNM of Albuquerque, NM against Samsung Electronics Company Limited of South Korea; and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited of Taiwan (Inv. No. 337-TA-729).

CBSA Concludes AD Re-Investigation on Steel Plate from China, Bulgaria, Czech Rep, Romania, Ukraine

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:45:00 -0400

The Canada Border Services Agency has concluded, effective July 16, 2010, a re-investigation to adjust the antidumping normal values for certain hot-rolled carbon steel plate, carbon steel plate, and high-strength low-alloy plate, variously, originating in or exported from China, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Romania and Ukraine. A complete response was only submitted by Azovstal and the Metinvest Group of Companies (Azovstal) from Ukraine. As a result, Azovstal has been provided with updated normal values. Normal values for all other exporters will be based on the export price of the goods advanced by 80.2% (China), 74.6% (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, and Romania), and 21.3% Ukraine.

FSIS Announces 2010 Microbiology and Residue Training Seminars

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:38:50 -0400

The Food Safety Inspection Service is announcing its 2010 International Microbiology Laboratory Training Seminar and the International Residue Laboratory Training Seminars. The purpose of these seminars is to familiarize international government laboratory officials with laboratory testing methods and procedures used by FSIS to assure that the nation's meat, poultry and egg products are safe and wholesome. These seminars will be held on Sep 13-17, 2010 (Microbiology) in Athens, GA, Sep 21-23, 2010 (Residue) in St. Louis, MO, and Sep 27-28, 2010 (Residue) in Alameda, CA.

Foreign Trade Zone Board Actions and Notices

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:41:18 -0400

The Foreign Trade Zone Board has issued the following notice:

FTZ 152 – Expansions of Zone: Foreign Trade Zone 152; Burns Harbor, IN

Bar Codes Not Being Displayed in Truck e-Manifest

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:24:15 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message stating that it has identified an issue in which the bar code is not being displayed on cover sheets for truck e-Manifest. This has not affected any other system processing and manifests can still be filed as usual and trucks can still be processed at border ports. Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

(CSMS #10-000171, dated 07/18/10)

OTEXA Creates Miscellaneous Tariff Bill Database

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 09:18:06 -0400

The Office of Textiles and Apparel has created a new Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB) database, which provides information on MTBs related to man-made fibers, textiles, apparel, footwear, and travel goods.

CBP News Releases

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:50:33 -0400

CBP has issued the following news releases:

GOV.cn reports on Signing of Revised Agreement for Chinese RMB Business in HK

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:55:22 -0400

GOV.cn reports that the People's Bank of China , or the central bank, and Hong Kong's renminbi clearing bank, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, on July 19, 2010 signed a revised Settlement Agreement on the Clearing of Renminbi Businesses in Hong Kong. As a result of the agreement, "there will no longer be restrictions on banks in Hong Kong in establishing renminbi accounts for and providing related services to financial institutions; and individuals and corporations will be able to conduct renminbi payments and transfers through the banks."

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:35:42 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

95-04: Laser Pointers, Laser Gunsights, Laser Levels, Laser Light Shows, Laser Pointer Key Chains, & Similar Products That Fail To Comply With Applicable Performance Standards And Reporting Requirements
86-07: Non-Prescription Sunglasses

Senate to Resume Consideration of Tax Extenders Bill

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 09:15:30 -0400

The Senate has reached a unanimous-consent agreement that on July 20, 2010, it will resume consideration of the Senate amendment of House-passed H.R. 4213, the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act (Tax Extenders or Jobs bill). (The House-passed version of H.R. 4213 included cotton and wool fund provisions, etc.) During its consideration of H.R. 4213 on July 20, 2010, the Senate is expected to vote on a motion to end debate on the measure.

House Energy and Commerce Requests Info on Philip Morris Intl Labor Practices

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 09:07:45 -0400

House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Waxman (D) and Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Chairman Stupak (D) sent a letter to Philip Morris International requesting information on its labor practices in Kazakhstan and other Philip Morris International markets.

FMC Announces Complaint Against NVOCCs, Ocean Carrier

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:21:25 -0400

The Federal Maritime Commission announces that a complaint has been filed by Yakov Kobel and Victor Berkovich against non-vessel operating common carriers Limco Logistics, Inc. and International TLC, Inc.; and Hapag-Lloyd America, Inc., an ocean carrier registered/licensed with FMC. The complainants assert that the respondents: failed to return and subsequently shipped a damaged container; failed to provide proper bills of lading at the time of shipment; changed the bill of lading to name an individual other than complainants as exporter and consignee; demanded “false, excessive and unearned shipping charges”; and liquidated three of five containers.

CPSC Issues Lab Requirements for Children's Carpets/Rugs, Lifts Testing Stay

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:16:49 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is issuing a notice of requirements, effective July 21, 2010, that provides the criteria and process for CPSC accreditation of third party labs to test children's carpets and rugs for compliance with certain CPSC regulations under the Flammable Fabrics Act. This notice also triggers, 90 days after its publication, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 third-party testing and certification requirement for these products, which has been stayed since February 2009.

House Energy and Commerce to Markup U.S. Registered Agent Bill, Etc. on July 21

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:08:09 -0400

On July 21, 2010, the House Energy and Commerce Committee will hold a markup of H.R. 4678, the Foreign Manufacturer Legal Accountability Act of 2010. According to the Committee’s briefing memo, at the markup, Chairman Waxman (D) may offer a manager’s amendment to address the minimum requirements for documenting the designation of a registered agent. The amendment may also make a technical change to clarify the effective date for the requirement to register an agent.

On July 21, 2010, the Committee will also mark up H.R. 4692, the “National Manufacturing Strategy Act of 2010” and H.R. 5156, the “Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act.”

House May Consider Miscellaneous Trade Bill as Early as July 21

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:13:48 -0400

The House Ways and Means Committee has issued a press release announcing that the House of Representatives is scheduled to consider H.R. 4380, the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act of 2009 the week of July 19, 2010, and possibly as early as July 21, 2010.

Updated Interest Rates for Additional Duties on Reconciliations

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:50:34 -0400

CBP posted an updated list of the interest rates (updated for the third quarter of 2010) for additional duty payments owed to Customs as a result of reconciliation. CBP notes that when a reconciliation results in additional monies owed CBP, the payment must be made with interest, calculated by the filer using the rates provided in the list.

ECHA Seeks Comments on Classification and Labeling of 2 Chemicals

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:13:12 -0400

The European Chemicals Agency is seeking comments by August 22, 2010 on the harmonized classification and labeling of 4-tert-Butylbenzoic acid and by August 5, 2010 for Leucomalachite Green. The comment request is part of the EU Regulation on Classification, Labeling and Packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP Regulation), which allows individual EU Member States and industry to propose harmonized classification and labeling of substances (e.g. as mutagenic, carcinogenic, etc.).

Foreign Trade Zone Board Actions and Notices

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:08:47 -0400

The Foreign Trade Zone Board has issued the following notices:

FTZ 163 – Expansion of Zone: Foreign Trade Zone 163; Ponce, Puerto Rico
FTZ 163 – Expansion of Zone: Foreign Trade Zone 163; Ponce, Puerto Rico
FTZ 17– Reorganization/Expansion of Zone: Foreign Trade Zone 17; Kansas City, MO
FTZ 61 – Reorganization/Expansion of Zone: Foreign Trade Zone 61; San Juan, Puerto Rico

FTC Issues Final Amendments to Lamp Labeling Requirements

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:04:09 -0400

The Federal Trade Commission has issued a final rule which makes final amendments to the lamp labeling requirements in the Appliance Labeling Rule. FTC also seeks further comment on several issues for consideration in any subsequent rulemaking. Certain testing, reporting, and sampling requirement amendments under 16 CFR 305.8 will become effective August 18, 2010. All other amendments will become effective July 19, 2011. Comments are due by September 20, 2010.

FDA’s OASIS Down on July 17

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:27:51 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message announcing that the FDA's OASIS import system will be down for maintenance on Saturday, July 17, 2010, starting at approximately 01:00 am ET (0100) and is not anticipated to be back up until 10:00 pm ET (2200). As a result, FDA will be operating under the Prior Notice Contingency - Scenario 2. CBP states that due to the length of this downtime, it may take some extra time for FDA field staff to perform FDA entry review and make admissibility “801(a)” decisions once OASIS becomes available. It is also possible that FDA field staff may need to rescind system "May Proceeds" issued right after the downtime is over. Notification of these "May Proceed" rescinds will be provided to filers. (See message for details on procedures to be followed during outage.)

(CSMS #10-000163, dated 07/15/10)

CBP to Modify Daily Statement Record for New Electronic Invoice Indicator

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:30:32 -0400

CBP has issued a CSMS message stating that it will modify the daily statement output (Application Code QR) Q2 record to display a new electronic invoice indicator. The new field will alert the trade that an electronic invoice is required for an ACS entry summary transmitted with an electronic indicator (e.g, an ACS EIP entry filed locally or remotely).

The new field will be displayed in the following manner.

Record identifier Q2 (output)

Data element – Invoice Required Indicator

Length/class – 1A

Position – 77

Status – conditional

Description – this field applies to an ACS electronic invoice filed summary and is part of the Automated Invoice Interface (AII) program. A code of ‘I’ indicates that invoice data should be submitted for the summary. A space in this field indicates that invoice data is not required to be submitted at this time. The invoice required indicator field applies to summaries where an ‘E’ is indicated in the entry summary record identifier 10 Input Record in position 56.

The trade will be notified in a future message when the above system changes have been completed.

(CSMS #10-000165, dated 07/16/10)

USTR Kirk Says ITC Small Business Report Can Guide U.S. Export Effort

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:28:34 -0400

U.S. Trade Representative Kirk commented on the International Trade Commission's new report on small and medium-sized enterprises. According to Kirk, the report shows that SMEs have a relatively smaller export role in the U.S. than in Europe, identifies top export barriers reported by U.S. SMEs, and can help guide U.S. trade policy efforts to boost SME exports.

WCO Announces 2nd Technology & Innovation Forum on Smart Borders

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:26:34 -0400

The World Customs Organization is organizing the Second Technology and Innovations Forum in Cairo, Egypt. In addition to demonstrating a wide range of new and emerging technologies, this year’s Forum focuses on engaging all relevant stakeholders in the discussion on the efficient use of technology at the border. The forum will be held on November 2-4, 2010 in Cairo.

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:11:52 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

Mexico - Food Security and Nutrition in Mexico: Food Security
India - 2010 Monsoon Report 2: Agricultural Situation
China - Food Processing Ingredients: 2010 Annual Report
Canada - This Week In Canadian Agriculture Issue 11: Agriculture in the News
India - Weekly Highlights and Hot Bites No. 27: Agriculture in the News
Philippines - Biofuels Annual: Philippine Biofuels Situation and Outlook
Philippines - Chicken Industry Updates: Poultry and Products
Thailand - Biofuels Annual: Annual 2010
Thailand - Bangkok Newsletter - July 2010: Agricultural Situation, Market Development Reports
EU-27 - Commission Communications on Sustainability and Voluntary Schemes: Bio-Fuels
Uganda - Uganda Coffee Annual Report: Coffee
Germany - Germany Extends Transition Period - POS Required for 2010 Harvest: Bio-Fuels, Trade Policy Monitoring
Bangladesh - Melamine-Free Certification Requirements for imported milk products: Dairy and Products
Vietnam - Grain and Feed Update: June 2010
Vietnam - Rice Price – Weekly: 2010
Vietnam - Rice Trade – Monthly: June 2010

Executive Communications to Congress for July 15

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:17:28 -0400

On July 15, 2010, the following executive communications were received by Congress:

U.S. exports to Brazil	8346. A letter from the Export-Import Bank, transmitting a report to the House on transactions involving U.S. exports to Brazil
U.S. exports to Mexico	8346. A letter from the Export-Import Bank, transmitting a report to the House on transactions involving U.S. exports to Mexico
U.S. exports to Honduras	8347. A letter from the Export-Import Bank, transmitting a report to the House on transactions involving U.S. exports to Honduras
U.S. exports to Ethiopia	8348. A letter from the Export-Import Bank, transmitting a report to the House on transactions involving U.S. exports to Ethiopia

CBP Posts C-TPAT 5 Step Risk Assessment

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:52:44 -0400

CBP has posted a Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism 5 Step Risk Assessment process guide. In order to assist C-TPAT Partners with conducting a risk assessment of their international supply chain(s) in accordance with C-TPAT minimum security criteria, the 5 Step Risk Assessment Process is recommended. CBP has also FAQs on the assessment.

FMCSA Hours of Service and CSA 2010 Proposed Rules Targeted for 2010

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:40:04 -0400

On June 11, 2010, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Chief Safety Officer stated that the FMCSA’s new proposed rule on Hours of Service (HOS) is expected to be out for public comment this fall and will be based on evidence and performance data. In addition, the FMCSA's new Comprehensive Safety Analysis (CSA) 2010 program is expected to “go live” and be fully operational in all 50 states later this year. CSA 2010 is based on operating information, mainly from a greater use of roadside inspections. Companies can go online and review the CSA 2010 data FMCSA has on their company. A proposed rule that explains the new safety rating process is also expected later in the year.

Labor Dept Issues Final List of Products Requiring Certification as to Child Labor

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:35:17 -0400

The Labor Department has issued a final determination, effective July 20, 2010, which updates the list of products, by country of origin, which the Departments of Labor, State and Homeland Security, have a reasonable basis to believe might have been mined, produced, or manufactured by forced or indentured child labor. Federal contractors who supply products on this list are required to certify, among other things, that they have made a good faith effort to determine whether forced or indentured child labor was used to produce the item.

Export.gov Announces New and Recorded Export Webinars

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 09:59:26 -0400

Export.gov has a variety of upcoming webinars. These webinars cover a variety of topics. There is also a variety of recorded webinars available. These webinars include both beginner and advanced topics.

Export Compliance Introduction
A Quick Guide to Foreign Trade Regulations
Classifying Your Commodity
Registering for AESDirect
Filing a Shipment in AESDirect
Response Messages from AES
Proof of Filing Citations (AESDirect)
North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
NAFTA Certificates of Origin (Part I)
NAFTA Certificates of Origin (Part II)
Preference Criterion (NAFTA)
NAFTA Rules of Origin
Taxes and Tariffs

DOE Reopens Comments on Proposed Standards for 3 Types of Heaters/Coolers

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:50:17 -0400

The Department of Energy has issued three notices that it is reopening the comment periods on its framework documents on proposed energy conservation standards for furnace fans and commercial refrigeration equipment; and a preliminary technical support document on walk-in coolers and freezers. Comments are now due by July 27, 2010 for furnace fans; and by July 30, 2010 for refrigeration equipment and coolers and freezers.

FTC Settles False Advertising Charge for Kids Drinks with Priobiotics

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:01:20 -0400

The Federal Trade Commission announces the settlement of a false advertising charge involving a drink for kids that contains probiotics. The FTC complaint charged that from fall 2008 to fall 2009, Nestlé HealthCare Nutrition, Inc. made false claims in television, magazine, and print ads that BOOST Kid Essentials prevents upper respiratory tract infections in children, protects against colds and flu by strengthening the immune system, and reduces absences from daycare or school due to illness. BOOST Kid Essentials is a nutritionally complete drink intended for children ages 1 to 13. The probiotics in BOOST Kid Essentials are embedded in a straw that comes with the drink, which was prominently featured in ads for the product.

CPSC Announces Open Meetings with Industry Stakeholders

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:11:29 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has updated its list of meetings between CPSC and industry stakeholders that are open to the public, unless otherwise stated:

CPSC staff and the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers to discuss CPSC Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Testing and Labeling Pertaining to Product Certification; 07/15/10;
CPSC staff and YKK Corporation of America to discuss CPSC Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Testing and Labeling Pertaining to Product Certification; 07/15/10;
Commissioners Northup and Nord and the Society of Glass and Ceramic Decorated Products to discuss how ceramic and glass products are decorated; 07/19/10 and 07/20/10;
Commissioner Nord and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) to give an update on ROHVA's continued standards development activity and other safety initiatives; 07/20/10;
Second meeting of the Chronic Advisory Panel (CHAP) on Phthalates and Phthalate Substitutes; 07/26-07/28;
CPSC's Vince Amodeo to attend the ASTM F15 Children’s Jewelry task group meeting; 08/12/10.

EC and British American Tobacco Sign Agreement to Fight Illicit Tobacco Trade

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:07:39 -0400

The European Commission has announced a multi-year agreement with British American Tobacco (BAT) to work together in tackling the illicit trade in tobacco products. Under the legally binding agreement, BAT will provide significant funds (totaling $200 million over the next 20 years) and work with the EC, its anti-fraud office OLAF, and Member States’ law enforcement authorities to help in the fight against contraband and counterfeit cigarettes.

FSIS Announces Codex Committee Meeting on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Food

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:05:11 -0400

The Food Safety and Inspection Service is announcing that the U.S. Delegates to the Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Food (CCRVDF) have scheduled a public meeting prior to their committee meeting, to inform the public about the meeting agenda and proposed U.S. positions on relevant Codex issues. The meeting will be held on August 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C. The call-in phone number (to listen-in) is 1-866-692-3158, the passcode is 5986642.

DDTC Announces D-Trade Will be Unavailable 5-9 PM July 16

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:15:25 -0400

The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls announces that DTrade will undergo essential system upgrades on Friday, July 16, 2010 from 5:00 p.m- 9:00 p.m. EST. During this time, the DTrade system will not be able to accept or process submissions until maintenance is completed. MARY will be available to check submission statuses.

U.S.-Turkey Trade and Investment Council Meets

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:19:13 -0400

On July 15, 2010, the U.S. and Turkey began the seventh meeting of the U.S.-Turkey Trade and Investment Council. The two-day meeting will cover the importance of the U.S.-Turkey trade and investment relationship and is a key step in preparations for the first formal meeting, envisioned for later this year, of the U.S.-Turkey Strategic Economic and Commercial Cooperation dialogue.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:22:14 -0400

Notification of Partial Rescission of Administrative Review of Antidumping Duty Order on Polyethylene Retail Carrier Bags from Thailand (A-549-821) Message No.: 0194301

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:20:23 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

89-08: Class III Devices Without Approved PMA's or IDE's and Other Devices Not Equivalent or No 510k
66-41: Unapproved New Drugs Promoted In The U.S.
45-02: Foods Containing Illegal and/or Undeclared Colors
16-81: Seafood Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella

FSIS Issues Notices for its Inspection Personnel and Public

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:19:54 -0400

FSIS has issued the following notices:

Notice 36-10 (July 15, 2010): Communicating with the Office of Inspector General (OIG)

Senate Passes Conference Version of Conflict Minerals & FCPA Whistleblower Bill

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:50:44 -0400

On July 15, 2010, the Senate agreed to the conference report for H.R. 4173, the financial reform bill, which contains provisions that would impose new requirements on companies that use “conflict minerals” and provide new Foreign Corrupt Practices Act whistleblower rewards, clearing the measure for the President. (See ITT's Online Archives or 07/14/10 news, 10071428, for details on the conference report's conflict minerals and FCPA whistleblower provisions.)

Senate Commerce Committee Orders DOT Maritime Bill Reported

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:27:57 -0400

On July 15, 2010, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation ordered favorably reported S. 3566, to authorize certain maritime programs of the Department of Transportation, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute;

Bills Reported in the Senate on July 15

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:30:33 -0400

On July 15, 2010, the following measures were reported in the Senate:

S. 3606, making appropriations for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2011. (S. Rept. No. 111-221)

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:43:36 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

NCBFAA Opposes Proposed Importer Declaration for U.S. Registered Agent Bill

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:38:09 -0400

On July 14, 2010, the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association sent a second letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Committee regarding its concerns with H.R. 4678, the Foreign Manufacturer Legal Accountability Act, which would require foreign manufacturers or producers of covered products to register an agent in the U.S. to accept service of process on their behalf, for state or federal regulatory proceedings and civil actions. NCBFAA's second letter addresses revised language that is under discussion that would amend H.R. 4678 to require an importer declaration. The declaration would attest to the importer’s belief, after appropriate inquiry, that the foreign manufacturer or producer of the covered product has a registered agent in the U.S. NCBFAA opposes the proposed new language.

CBP Memo on Nicaragua's Recently Reduced Apparel TPL

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:48:11 -0400

CBP has issued a memorandum regarding CITA's recent reduction of Nicaragua’s tariff preference level for non-originating cotton and manmade fiber apparel under the Dominican Republic - Central America-U.S. Free Trade Agreement by 761,138 SME. (See ITT's Online Archives or 07/13/10 news, 10071307, for BP summary on the TPL reduction.)

FAS Global Agriculture Information Network Reports

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:54:58 -0400

The Foreign Agriculture Service issued the following GAIN reports:

Argentina - Biofuels Annual: Argentina
Australia - Biofuels Annual: Biofuels Annual 2010
India - Biofuels Annual: 2010
New Zealand - Biofuels Voluntary Report: Bio-Fuels
EU-27 - New EU beef import quota – first year state of play: Livestock and Products
Turkey - Turkey Cotton Update June 2010: Agricultural Situation, Cotton and Products, Oilseeds and Products
Thailand - Rice Price – Weekly: Weekly Rice Price Update
Venezuela - The BRV set new rules for importers to get dollars: Agricultural Situation

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:26:52 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

99-19: Food Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella
99-08: Processed Foods for Pesticides
99-05: Raw Agricultural Products for Pesticides
95-04: Laser Pointers, Laser Gunsights, Laser Levels, Laser Light Shows, Laser Pointer Key Chains, & Similar Products That Fail To Comply With Applicable Performance Standards And Reporting Requirements
66-41: Unapproved New Drugs Promoted In The U.S.
21-12: Frozen and Refrigerated Guacamole and Processed Avocado Products
16-81: Seafood Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella
16-18: Shrimp
02-02: Processed Rice-Based Products Due to Filth

APHIS Treatment PPQ Manual Updated

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:57:36 -0400

On July 13, 2010, APHIS updated its Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Treatment Manual. This Manual serves as an operational guide for selecting and conducting quarantine treatments. The procedures and treatment schedules in this manual are administratively authorized for use by APHIS to prevent the movement of agricultural pests into or within the United States. Listed treatments include chemical treatments such as fumigation with methyl bromide, and nonchemical treatments with heat, cold, or irradiation.

FSIS Updates List of Argentina, Canadian and New Zealand Firms That Export Meat & Poultry to U.S.

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:59:05 -0400

The Food Safety and Inspection Service has issued updated versions of its list of Argentina (July 13), Canadian (July 12, 2010) and New Zealand (July 13, 2010) firms eligible to export meat and poultry to the U.S.

Ambassador to WTO Discusses U.S. Views on AD, Subsidies, Regional Trade Agreements

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:32:21 -0400

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has issued a statement by U.S. Ambassador to the WTO Michael Punke which congratulates Dennis Francis for his election as Chair of the WTO Negotiating Group on Rules, states that the U.S. is committed to achieving a balanced and ambitious agreement within this group, and outlines U.S. viewpoints on antidumping, fisheries subsidies, horizontal subsidies, and regional trade agreements.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:06:51 -0400

Liquidation Instructions for Fresh Garlic from The People’s Republic of China Exported by the NME-Wide Entity for Period 11/01/2007 Through 10/31/2008 (A-570-831). Message No.: 0193303
Liquidation Instructions for Fresh Garlic from The People’s Republic of China Exported by Various Companies for the Period 11/01/2007 Through 10/31/2008 (A-570-831) Message No.: 0193302
Cash Deposit Instructions for the New Shipper Review of Certain Frozen Fish Fillets from Vietnam Exported and Produced by NTSF Seafoods Joint Stock Company (A-552-801-026) (08/01/2008 To 01/31/2009) Message No.: 0193301

Bill, Resolution Reports Filed in House on July 14

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:18:11 -0400

On July 14, 2010, reports were filed on the following measures in the House:

H.R. 5381, to require motor vehicle safety standards relating to vehicle electronics and to reauthorize and provide greater transparency, accountability, and safety authority to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with an amendment (H. Rept. 111-536)

Senate to Resume Consideration of Conflict Minerals & FCPA Whistleblower Bill

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:09:07 -0400

The Senate reached agreement to resume consideration on July 15, 2010 of the conference report for H.R. 4173, the financial reform bill, which contains provisions that would impose new requirements on companies that use “conflict minerals” and provide new whistleblower rewards. On July 15, 2010, the Senate is expected to vote on ending debate on the conference report.

CBP Border Patrol Weekly Blotter for July 8 - 14

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:10:33 -0400

CBP has posted the U.S. Border Patrol Weekly Blotter for July 8 - 14, 2010. The Blotter provides information on Border Patrol activities during the specified week.

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:59:48 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

Senate Finance Ranking Member Urges Implementation of Pending FTAs

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:21:19 -0400

At a July 14, 2010 press conference, Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Grassley urged implementation of the pending free trade agreements with Korea, Panama, and Colombia. Grassley noted that there is no reason why the implementation of the pending FTAs with Panama and Colombia cannot be put on the same timeline recently announced for the Korea FTA (KORUS FTA). Grassley stated that he is ready to work with the President on the Panama and Colombia FTAs, something he would like to see happen in 2010.

EC Regrets WTO Panel Delay of Boeing Report, Needed to Give Full Picture

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:52:50 -0400

The European Commission has issued a statement of extreme disappointment that the World Trade Organization panel examining the Boeing dispute (DS 353) is delaying its report. According to the EC, the time lag between this case, and the U.S. case against support to Airbus (DS 316) has constantly increased over the six years this dispute has been running, and the gap is now at nearly a year. It creates the wrong impression that Airbus has received some WTO incompatible support, whereas Boeing has not. Only when both panel reports have been issued will both sides have a more complete picture of the dispute.

EC Takes Steps to Allow Each Member Country to Decide on GMO Restrictions

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:50:44 -0400

On July 13, 2010, the European Commission proposed to confer to EU Member Countries the freedom to allow, restrict or ban the cultivation of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) on part or all of their territory. According to the EC, the legislative proposal will be adopted through co-decision with the European Parliament and the Council.The EC has also issued a question and answer document on the European Union's "new approach" to the cultivation of GMOs.

Russian Economic Development Ministry Creates Trade Website in English

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:53:17 -0400

The Ministry for Economic Development of the Russian Federation has created a new website in English about Russian trade regulations, the customs union between Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus, trade events. etc.

CITT Hearing to Consider Chapter 99 Eligibility of Rock Wool Blocks

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 09:40:59 -0400

The Canadian International Trade Tribunal will hold a public hearing on July 27, 2010 to consider A.M.A. Plastics Ltd. v. President of the Canada Border Services Agency, on whether blocks of rock wool, which are classified under tariff item No. 6806.10.90, are entitled to the benefit of tariff item No. 9903.00.00 as articles and materials which enter into the cost of manufacture or repair of, and are for use in agricultural or horticultural machines of heading No. 84.36.

FAS Reports on U.S. Agriculture Exports to EU

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 09:36:41 -0400

The Foreign Agricultural Service has issued a July 13, 2010 International Agriculture Trade Report which states U.S. agricultural exports to the European Union are on the rebound. In recent years, exports of agricultural products to the EU have trailed growth in overall U.S. agricultural exports to the world. From 2000 to 2009, U.S. exports to all destinations increased by 90 percent (from $52.7 billion to $96.6 billion); over the same time period exports to the EU increased only 17 percent making it one of the slowest growing markets. However, shipments have been strong through the first seven months of fiscal 2010 and are forecast for the year at $8.3 billion, up 9 percent over last year. Exports over the second half of the year will be influenced by the European financial situation, strength of the dollar, and competitor supplies.

TTB Issues Guidance on Alcohol Content of Kombucha Product

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:00:29 -0400

The Alcohol and Tobacco Trade and Tax Bureau on June 23, 2010 issued guidance stating that Kombucha products containing at least 0.5 percent alcohol by volume are alcohol beverages. Kombucha is a fermented tea that is typically marketed as a non-alcoholic beverage, which means that it may contain a trace amount of alcohol, as long as the overall alcohol content is less than 0.5 percent alcohol by volume. However, In some cases these products have alcohol contents that significantly exceed 0.5 percent. This means that producers, importers, and wholesalers of Kombucha that is a alcohol beverage product may be subject to the permit, labeling, and advertising requirements of the Federal Alcohol Administration Act (FAA Act), dependingn on the classification of the product. In addition, the production of alcohol beverages is subject to strict regulation under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (IRC).

Locke Announces Members of Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:03:13 -0400

Commerce Secretary Locke announced on July 13, 2010 the members of the National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a group that will support the Administration's innovation strategy by helping to develop policies that foster entrepreneurship and identifying new ways to take ideas from the lab to the marketplace to drive economic growth and create jobs. Included on the list are Steve Case, Mary Sue Coleman, and Desh Deshpande who will serve as Co-Chairs.

Trade-Related Hearings for July 14

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 09:24:26 -0400

On July 14, 2010, the following trade-related hearings will be held:

Senate Finance Committee Subcommittee on International Trade, Customs, and Global Competitiveness hearing to examine marine wealth, focusing on promoting conservation and advancing American exports
House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces oversight hearing on the activities of the Maritime Administration
Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection, hearing on H.R. 4692, National Manufacturing Strategy Act of 2010

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:53:13 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

BIS Revises CCL to Update/Clarify Crime Control License Requirements

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:51:48 -0400

The Bureau of Industry and Security has issued a final rule, effective July 15, 2010, which updates and clarifies export and reexport license requirements on striking weapons, restraint devices, shotguns and parts, optical sighting devices, and electric shock devices; and adds equipment designed for the execution of humans to the Commerce Control List, as part of an ongoing review of crime control license requirements and policy.

CPSC May Seek Comment on Feasibility of Children’s 100 ppm Lead Limit

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:06:51 -0400

The Commissioners of the Consumer Product Safety Commission are scheduled to vote by July 20, 2010 on a draft Federal Register notice seeking comments on the technological feasibility of meeting the 100 parts per million (ppm) lead content limit for children’s products.

ITA Issues Final AD/CV Determinations for Woven Ribbons from China, Taiwan

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 16:12:21 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued a fact sheet announcing its affirmative final determinations in the antidumping and countervailing duty investigations of narrow woven ribbons with woven selvedge from China, and in the AD duty investigation for Taiwan, with AD duty rates ranging from zero to 247.65% for China, and zero to 4.37% for Taiwan; and CV duty rates ranging from 1.56% to 117.95% for China.

Future ISO on Energy Management Progresses

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 09:03:40 -0400

The International Organization for Standardization has announced that the future ISO 50001 standard for energy management was recently approved as a Draft International Standard (DIS). ISO 50001 will establish a framework for industrial plants, commercial facilities or entire organizations to manage energy.

Now that ISO 50001 has advanced to the DIS stage, national member bodies of ISO have been invited to vote and comment on the text of the standard during the five-month balloting period. If the outcome of the DIS voting is positive, the modified document will then be circulated to the ISO members as a Final Draft International Standard. If that vote is positive, ISO 50001 is expected to be published as an International Standard by early 2011.

Press Reports Lawmaker Brawl in Taiwan over ECFA

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 09:06:02 -0400

The Washington Post reported that a brawl occurred among lawmakers on the legislative floor in Taipei, Taiwan on July 8, 2010 as discussion began on a preferential trade agreement, the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) planned with China.

FDA Final Rule on Food Safety Requirements for Eggs in Effect

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 08:54:21 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration says that as many as 79,000 illnesses and 30 deaths due to consumption of eggs contaminated with the bacterium Salmonella Enteritidis may be avoided each year with new food safety requirements for large-scale egg producers. The new food safety requirements are effective on July 9, 2010, through a rule for egg producers having 50,000 or more laying hens – about 80% of production. Among other things, it requires them to adopt preventive measures and to use refrigeration during egg storage and transportation.

BIS Announces Informations Systems TAC Meeting

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 09:00:25 -0400

The Bureau of Industry and Security announces that the Information Systems Technical Advisory Committee will hold a partially open meeting on July 28 and 29, 2010. The agenda for the July 28 public session includes discussion of Smart Grid, civil satellite telecommunications, and GPU/CPU/accelerators.

CPSC Considering Public Hearing on Its FY 2012 Priorities

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 08:57:31 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has scheduled a Commission vote on July 15, 2010 on a draft Federal Register notice announcing an opportunity for comment and a public hearing on August 11, 2010 concerning CPSC's agenda and priorities for fiscal year 2012.

USTR Announces Results of 2009 GSP Product Review

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 08:52:36 -0400

The Office of the United States Trade Representative announces the results of 2009 Generalized System of Preferences Annual Product Review with respect to: (1) disposition of the product petitions accepted for review, including petitions to add and remove products; (2) waivers of the Competitive Need Limitations; (3) revocation of CNL waivers; and (4) de minimis waivers and redesignations. (See ITT's Online Archives or 07/02/10 news, 10070221, for previous BP summary of the 2009 Annual GSP Review results. See ITT's Online Archives or 07/06/10 news, 10070606, for BP summary of the Presidential Proclamation implementing the GSP changes.)

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:24:13 -0400

Discontinue Suspension of Liquidation in the Countervailing Duty Investigation of Certain Potassium Phosphate Salts from China (C-570-963); Continue to Suspend Entries From 03/08/10 To 07/05/10 Message No.: 0189301
Liquidation Instructions According to Rescission of Administrative Review for Add Order on Certain Preserved Mushrooms from India (A-533813) Message No.: 0189303
Notification of Rescission of Administrative Review of Countervailing Duty Order of Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India (C533-839) Message No.: 0189302

Updated CF 1400, CF 1401 Reports

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 09:24:02 -0400

CBP has posted an updated version of its CF 1400 (Record of Vessel in Foreign Trade Entrances) - an electronic query report for CF 1400 of the Vessel Management System (VMS), in accordance with 19 CFR 4.95, organized by entrances. CBP has also posted an updated CF 1401 (Record of Vessel in Foreign Trade Clearances) - an electronic query report for CF 1401 of the VMS, in accordance with 19 CFR 4.95, organized by clearances.

Senator Stabenow Urges Legislative Action to Stop Currency Manipulation

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 10:00:57 -0400

Senator Stabenow has issued a statement in response to the Treasury Department’s semi-annual currency report. According to Senator Stabenow, bipartisan legislation must be passed that would require the U.S. Departments of Treasury and Commerce to take action and stop currency violating countries from cheating.

Trade-Related Bills Introduced on July 12, 2010

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 10:18:20 -0400

On July 12, 2010, the following trade-related bills were introduced:

Citrus disease fund	S. 3568. A bill to amend the Trade Act of 1974 to create a Citrus Disease Research and Development Trust Fund to support research on diseases impacting the citrus industry, and for other purposes
DOT maritime programs	S. 3566. A bill to authorize certain maritime programs of the Department of Transportation, and for other purposes

Commerce and Postal Service Launch New Initiative on U.S. Exports

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 11:03:36 -0400

On July 12, 2010, the Commerce Department and U.S. Postal Service announced that they have joined forces to support President Obama’s National Export Initiative (NEI). The two government bodies are launching the New Market Exporter Initiative (NMEI) in order to identify current USPS customers who are exporting their goods and services abroad, and help expand their reach to additional international markets. The announcement expands a strategic partnership formed in 2008 between the two entities.s or 07/08/10 news, 10070811, for BP summary of President Obama’s update on NEI.)

ITC Institutes Patent Investigation of Collaborative Teaching Systems

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:47:41 -0400

The International Trade Commission has instituted a section 337 patent-based investigation of certain collaborative teaching systems, primarily used in schools, that include a display, a host computer, wireless tablets, and electronic pens, pursuant to a complaint filed by eInstruction Corporation of Denton, TX against two companies (Inv. No. 337-TA-728).

CBP Border Patrol Weekly Blotter for July 1 - 7

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:40:40 -0400

CBP has posted the U.S. Border Patrol Weekly Blotter for July 1 - 7, 2010. The Blotter provides information on Border Patrol activities during the specified week.

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:44:25 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

99-05: Raw Agricultural Products for Pesticides
80-04: Surgeon's and Patient Examination Gloves
23-11: Nuts and Nut Containing Products for Aflatoxin
21-12: Frozen and Refrigerated Guacamole and Processed Avocado Products
16-18: Shrimp

Xinhuanet Says Western China to be Part of New Domestic-Growth Drive

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:56:19 -0400

Xinhuanet.com states that ten years after it unveiled a strategy to promote growth in its western area, China announced a plan to continue the initiative. The move to further develop the West came as the government took steps such as subsidizing auto and home appliance buyers, to boost domestic demand and lessen reliance on exports.

CBP Posts Updated ESAR A2.2 Programming Issues Spreadsheet

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:41:19 -0400

CBP has posted an updated version of its spreadsheet of ESAR A2.2 programming issues.

Foreign Trade Zone Board Actions and Notices

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:53:49 -0400

The Foreign Trade Zone Board has issued the following notice:

FTZ 116A - Foreign-Trade Subzone 116A; Motiva Enterprises, LLC (Oil Refinery)
FTZ 265C - Grant of Authority For Subzone Status Materials Science Technology, Inc., Conroe, TX

WTO Describes Water Footprint of Footwear

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:58:35 -0400

The World Trade Organization has posted an article describing the "water footprint" associated with footwear, which is a measure of the consumption and pollution of water through the footwear manufacturing process.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:34:05 -0400

Termination of Suspension of Liquidation in the Countervailing Duty Investigation of Certain Coated Paper from Indonesia (C-560-824) (03/09/2010 To 07/06/2010) Message No.: 0188303

CBP Posts Exchange Rate Multipliers for Week Ending July 9

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 08:11:36 -0400

CBP has posted the weekly foreign currency exchange rate multipliers for the week ending July 9, 2010.

TPCC Asks Exporters, Others for Input on Developing NEI

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:32:57 -0400

The Commerce Department states that the Administration’s interagency Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee is seeking information from exporters and other interested parties on how the Obama Administration should develop the National Export Initiative (NEI). Comments are due by July 26, 2010. (President Obama launched the NEI via Executive Order 13534 on March 11, 2010, in order to achieve the goal of doubling the exports of goods and services over five years to facilitate the creation of jobs in the U.S. The NEI Export Promotion Cabinet, through the TPCC, is required to provide a report to the President within 180 days of that date, on a comprehensive plan to carry out the goals of the NEI.)

CPSC Posts FAQ on Issuing Its Own Detention Notices

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 10:48:22 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has posted an updated frequently asked questions document on the agency's issuance of its own detention notices, staring June 14, 2010. The FAQs are substantially similar to details previously released by CPSC on these notices.

ITA Antidumping and Countervailing Notices

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 08:49:17 -0400

The International Trade Administration has issued notices on:

U.S. and Vietnam to Work Together to Prevent Nuclear Smuggling

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 11:14:24 -0400

The U.S. and Vietnam have signed an agreement to begin a cooperative effort to deter, detect and interdict illicit smuggling of nuclear and other radioactive material. The agreement paves the way for the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) to work with the Ministry of Finance’s General Department of Customs and other government ministries in Vietnam to install radiation detection equipment and an associated communications system at the port of Cai Mep in the province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau.

EU Questions Argentina’s Measures on Food Imports

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 17:17:57 -0400

At a meeting of the Council for Trade in Goods, the European Union expressed concern over an internal government note in Argentina that it said restricted food imports, including from the EU, which includes long delays in the granting of certificates and cancellation of long-standing orders to the EU. The EU questioned the consistency of these measures with WTO rules.

CBP Posts Updated ACE Entry Summary Instructions

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:04:51 -0400

CBP has posted an updated version (version 2.2) of its ACE Entry Summary Instructions document, which provides guidance to ACE users on what entry summary information to provide in ACE.

EU Official Journal Notices for July 8, 2010

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:56:50 -0400

In the July 8, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables; and
Regulation amending EU Regulation No 576/2010 fixing the import duties in the cereals sector applicable from July 1, 2010.

USTR Allocates Second Additional FY 2010 Raw Cane Sugar TRQ

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:47:36 -0400

The Office of the U.S.Trade Representative is providing notice of country-by-country allocations of a second additional fiscal year 2010 in-quota quantity of the tariff-rate quota for imported raw cane sugar in the amount of 272,155 metric tons raw value in specified amounts to 25 countries. (See ITT's Online Archives or 07/08/09 news, 10070804, for previous BP summary.)

CBP News Releases

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:44:48 -0400

CBP has issued the following news releases:

NIST's Latest Notifications of Possible Foreign Trade Barriers

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:20:13 -0400

Brazil: Alcohol Alcoholic beverages (HS 2203 to 2206 or 2208); non-alcoholic beverages (HS 2202); grapes (HS 0806.10)
Canada: Radio communications equipment
Canada: Radio communications equipment
Chile: Organic agricultural products
France: Processing aids used in certain foods
Kenya: Baby shawls (HS 5501.30)
Kenya: Hydrogen peroxide (HS 2847)
Korea: Cosmetics
Morocco: Television receivers
Oman: Toys
Uganda: Solar energy engineering
Uganda: Solar energy engineering
Uganda: Hospital equipment
Uganda: Hospital equipment
Uganda: Construction materials
Uganda: Fire fighting
Uganda: Fire fighting
Uganda: Fire fighting
Uganda: Fire fighting

ITC Investigation Notices

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 08:52:55 -0400

The International Trade Commission has issued a notice on:

Natural Bristle Paint Brushes from China

Xinhuanet States that China Seeks Input on Food Safety Draft

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 10:22:23 -0400

Xinhuanet.com states that a draft of rules designed to protect the safety of exported and imported food has been opened for public debate until next Friday. It is the first systematic regulation concerning the safety of exported and imported food.. The import and export of food additives, food products, grains, fruit and live animals intended for human consumption are all covered by the regulations.

Canada Amends its NAFTA TPL Wool Apparel Allocation Policy

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:34:28 -0400

Canada's Minister of International Trade is amending the NAFTA Tariff Preference Level (TPL) Wool Apparel Allocation Policy as follows: Effective July 5, 2010, the current balance of unallocated TPL for the 2010 allocation year will be available on a first-come, first-served basis to exporters once they have utilized their current allocation. On January 1, 2011, TPL will be allocated on the basis of 2010 performance with any remaining balance made available on a first-come, first-served basis during the course of the year. In addition, the transfer of wool apparel TPL between allocation holders will no longer be permitted and the current 25% return to the Minister policy will be maintained.

CBP Messages on AD and CV Duty Actions

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:28:37 -0400

Termination of Suspension of Liquidation in the Countervailing Duty Investigation of Certain Seamless Carbon and Alloy Steel Standard, Line, and Pressure Pipe from The PRC (C-570-957) (03/01/2010 To 06/28/2010) Message No.: 0182304
Automatic Liquidation Instructions for Stainless Steel Bar from India for the Period 02/01/2002 Through 01/31/2003 (A-533-810) Message No.: 0182303
Liquidation Instructions for Frozen Warmwater Shrimp from Ecuador (A-331-802) Message No.: 0182301
No Shipments Inquiry for Garlic From China (A-570-831-000/039)-Shandong Chenhe International Trading Co., Ltd. Message No.: 0182308
No Shipments Inquiry for Garlic from China (A-570-831-000/043)-Shenzhen Greening Trading Co., Ltd. Message No.: 0182307
Liquidation Instructions According to Adminstrative Review of Certain Pasta from Italy (C-475-819-002/005/006/049/053) (01/01/2008 To 12/31/2008) Message No.: 0182306
Antidumping Duty Order in the Investigation of Prestressed Concrete Steel Wire Strand from China (A-570-945) Message No.: 0182305
Cash Deposit Instructions for Certain Pasta from Italy (C-475-819) Message No.: 0183302
Cash Deposit Instructions for Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India (A533-838) Message No.: 0183301

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:29:06 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

99-19: Food Products Due To The Presence Of Salmonella
99-08: Processed Foods for Pesticides
95-04: Laser Pointers, Laser Gunsights, Laser Levels, Laser Light Shows, Laser Pointer Key Chains, & Similar Products That Fail To Comply With Applicable Performance Standards And Reporting Requirements
80-04: Surgeon's and Patient Examination Gloves
02-02: Processed Rice-Based Products Due to Filth
99-05: Raw Agricultural Products for Pesticides
66-41: Unapproved New Drugs Promoted In The U.S.
45-02: Foods Containing Illegal and/or Undeclared Colors
20-05: Fruit Juices and Fruit Juice Concentrates Due to Heavy Metal Contamination
16-81: Seafood Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella
16-39: Processed Seafood and Analogue Seafood (Surimi) Products for Listeria Monocytogenes

FSIS Updates Instructions and U.S. Plants for Exporting Meat and Poultry

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:29:14 -0400

FSIS has provided updated information for the export of U.S. meat and poultry to the following countries:

USTR Announces U.S. Contribution to WTO Technical Assistance Efforts

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:35:54 -0400

U.S. Trade Representative Kirk announced that the U.S. will contribute $1.05 million for trade-related technical assistance (TRTA) to the World Trade Organization. The WTO’s TRTA program provides training for developing countries that enhances their ability to analyze issues, assess their interests and participate effectively in the negotiations. The program also provides these nations with assistance in meeting their WTO obligations and ensures they fully benefit from the results of WTO negotiations.

U.S., Ghana Hold Sixth Meeting of U.S.-Ghana Trade and Investment Council

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:38:04 -0400

Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Liser recently concluded her two-day visit to Ghana, where she met with senior government officials and private sector representatives to discuss the importance of the U.S.-Ghana trade relationship. Liser also co-chaired with Ghanaian Trade Minister Hannah Tetteh the sixth meeting of the U.S.-Ghana Trade and Investment Council, under the U.S.-Ghana Trade and Investment Framework Agreement, which was signed in 1999.

APHIS Issues Pest Risk Analysis on Wall Rocket Leaves from UK

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:36:46 -0400

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has prepared a pest risk analysis which evaluates the risks associated with the importation into the continental U.S. of fresh leaves of perennial wall rocket from the United Kingdom. Comments are due by September 7, 2010.

European Parliament Passes Directive to Limit Industrial Emissions

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:33:42 -0400

On July 7, 2010, the European Parliament approved a directive to establish stricter rules for industrial emissions, beginning in 2016. Parliament has given its seal of approval to the second reading agreement that was reached with Council. The Council will also need to officially rubber stamp the text, after which Member States will be required to apply the directive in their national legislation.

DFAIT Announces July 5 Filling of Frozen Pork TRQ

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:29:20 -0400

Canada's Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade states that effective July 5, 2010, the frozen pork TRQ from the EU imported under tariff item No. 0203.29.00 of the Customs Tariff has been filled and therefore all imports to July 31, 2011 will be subject to the European Union Surtax Order. The surtax is applicable in the amount equal to the value for the duty (100%) determined in accordance with sections 45 to 56 of the Customs Act.

Sri Lanka to Lose Preferential Access to EU Market Starting August 15

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:26:46 -0400

The European Commission has confirmed that Sri Lanka will temporarily lose its preferential access to the EU market, starting August 15, 2010. Though the European Council offered to delay its February 2010 decision to remove Sri Lanka's GSP+ status pending tangible and sustainable progress on a number of outstanding issues, the Commission has not heard anything from Sri Lankan authorities and is moving forward with the revocation.

President Issues Statement on Food Safety

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:41:01 -0400

President Obama has issued a statement on food safety. A year ago, the Food Safety Working Group announced key findings on how to upgrade the food safety system. Since then, the Administration has taken steps to ensure the safety of food. He also thanked the House for its work and support efforts in the Senate to pass S. 510, the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act.

European Parliament Calls for Ban of Food from Cloned Animals

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:22:53 -0400

European Parliament voted on July 7, 2010 that new EU legislation be proposed to expressly prohibit foods from cloned animals and their descendants, with a moratorium on their sale in the meantime.

Treasury Says China's Currency Is Undervalued but Does Not Call It Currency Manipulation

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 21:20:04 -0400

On July 8, 2010, the Treasury Department sent its Semi-Annual Report on International Economic and Exchange Rate Policies to Congress, which concludes that China’s renminbi remains undervalued but does not conclude that China is a “currency manipulator.”

Eagle Pass CBP Seizes 2,000 Pounds of Marijuana Hidden in Bricks on Commercial Truck

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:58:30 -0400

CBP officers at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry intercepted more than 2,000 pounds of marijuana on June 30, 2010 at Bridge II. The seizure took place at the commercial import lot when a CBP officer referred a 1997 Freightliner tractor - pulling a flatbed trailer, manifesting a shipment of ceramic bricks - for secondary examination. CBP officers at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry discovered nearly 2,100 packages of marijuana hidden inside individual ceramic bricks.

CBP Posts Exchange Rate Multipliers for Week Ending July 2

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:01:41 -0400

CBP has posted the weekly foreign currency exchange rate multipliers for the week ending July 2, 2010.

U.S.-Ukraine Strategic Partnership Commission Met for Second Time

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:17:03 -0400

The State Department announced that the Foreign Minister of Ukraine and U.S. Secretary of State met July 2, 2010 in Kyiv, Ukraine for the second session of the U.S.-Ukraine Strategic Partnership Commission. They reiterated that their common interests include democracy, economic freedom and prosperity, security and territorial integrity, energy security, cooperation in the defense area, the rule of law and people-to-people contacts.

CITES Announces New Web-Based Trade Data Dashboards

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:35:14 -0400

The Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species on the occasion of its 35th anniversary has announced its new web-based CITES Trade Data Dashboards, which uses the trade data from the annual reports of the Parties to provide an instant overview of the magnitude of wildlife trade per country and per species group, such as mammals, birds or fish.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recalls

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:11:22 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recalls:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
External laptop battery: Fire Hazard	Tekkeon Inc. (CA)	10-744
Children’s Coin Purse and Jewelry: Risk of Lead Exposure	Daiso California LLC (CA)	10-292

Revised FDA Import Alerts

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:24:39 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alerts on the detention without physical examination of:

99-19: Food Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella
99-08: Processed Foods for Pesticides
16-81: Seafood Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella
02-01: White or Brown Basmati Rice from India

House Homeland Security Chair Issues Statement on Biological Threats EO

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:29:21 -0400

On July 2, 2010, the Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security issued a statement regarding the President’s Executive Order on the security of biological select agents and toxins in the U.S. The Chairman states that as with the WMD Prevention and Preparedness Act of 2010, which is moving through the House, the EO requires the Federal government to develop security enhancements to help prevent biological agents and toxins, like smallpox and anthrax, from getting in the hands of terrorists.

U.S. and Barbados Reach Open-Skies Agreement

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:27:36 -0400

The Transportation Department announces that representatives of the U.S. and Barbados have reached an Open-Skies Agreement. Upon its signature, airlines from both countries will be allowed to select routes, destinations and prices for both passenger and cargo service based on consumer demand and market conditions. The agreement, which was reached on July 1, 2010 and provides airlines, for the first time, with codesharing and intermodal rights.

EPA Draft Proposed Rule to Declare Prion a Pest Under FIFRA

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:28:12 -0400

The Environmental Protection Agency has forwarded to the Secretaries of Agriculture and Health and Human Services a draft proposed rule to declare a prion (i.e., proteinaceous infectious particle) a pest under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, so a product intended to reduce the infectivity of any prion on inanimate surfaces (i.e., a prion product) is considered to be a pesticide and regulated as such.

CBP Updates its TRQ/TPL Threshold to Fill List

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:50:10 -0400

CPSC Delays Discussion of Phthalates Stay to July 14, to Also Vote on Crib Rule

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:11:40 -0400

The Commissioners of the Consumer Product Safety Commission have postponed their discussion of the “Interim Policy and Partial Lifting of the Stay on Testing and Certification of Children’s Toys and Child Care Articles to the Phthalates Limits” from July 7 to July 14, 2010. The Commissioners will also vote on a proposed rule establishing new mandatory safety standards for cribs on July 14, 2010. CPSC notice on rescheduling its meeting on phthalates available here.

July 7, 2010 CBP Bulletin Has 5 Ruling Notices

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:17:11 -0400

U.S. Customs and Border Protection's July 7, 2010 Customs Bulletin (Volume 44, No. 28) contains 5 notices of ruling actions, as follows:

Modification of a Ruling and Revocation of Treatment Relating to the Tariff Classification of Media Optical Discs
Proposed Modification of a Ruling and Revocation of Treatment Relating to the Tariff Classification of Distilled Rose and Orange Blossom Waters
Proposed Revocation of Two Rulings and Proposed Revocation of Treatment Relating to the Tariff Classification of IPOD® Docking Stations With Speakers
Proposed Revocation of Two Rulings and Proposed Revocation of Treatment Concerning the Classification of Wafer Probe Cards
Proposed Revocation of a Ruling and Proposed Revocation of Treatment Relating to the Tariff Classification of 6-Bromo-1-Hexanol

DFAIT Announces Aug 1 Opening of Wheat and Barley TRQs

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:28:41 -0400

Canada's Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade states that the 2010-2011 tariff rate quotas for wheat, barley and their products will open on August 1, 2010. The TRQs are administered on a first come, first served basis. The following annual (August 1 to July 31) TRQ levels apply:

wheat 226,883 tonnes;
barley 399,000 tonnes;
wheat products 123,557 tonnes (grain equivalent);
barley products 19,131 tonnes (grain equivalent).

WTO Issues Revision to June 2010 Trade Policy Review for China

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:51:24 -0400

The World Trade Organization has issued a revised "summary" section of its third Trade Policy Review for China, which was issued in June 2010 and which reviewed China's measures affecting imports and exports, including intellectual property rights, lack of transparency, etc.

CPSC Announces July 7 Closed Compliance Meeting

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:15:31 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a closed meeting on July 7, 2010, in which the staff will brief the Commission on various compliance matters.

CPSC Lists Voluntary Recalls

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:13:50 -0400

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has published notice of the following voluntary recalls:

Product: Reason	Company	Release #
Salomon “Quest Touring Pads” and Salomon “Quest Pro Pebax” and “Quest Pro” touring-style ski boots: Fall Hazard	Salomon USA (UT)	10-285
Power Inflator: Drowning Hazard	Aqua Lung America (CA)	10-286
Children’s Happy Charm Bracelets and Football Rings: High Levels of Cadmium	Toy Network (IA) and Fun Express Oriental Trading Company (NE)	10-287
Powertec Drill Presses: Shock Hazard	Southern Technologies (IL)	10-288
Women’s Bathrobes: Violation of Federal Flammability Standard	Christy (NC)	10-289
2009 Felt model B12, B16 and S32 road bicycles: Fall Hazard	Felt Bicycles (CA)	10-290

Australian Wool Organization Working on Response to U.S. Associations' Mulesing Concerns

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:33:03 -0400

The Federation of Australian Wool Organizations Inc. has responded to a June 9, 2010 letter from U.S. apparel and retail associations on their continued concerns over the Australian animal husbandry practice for sheep known as mulesing. The Federation stated that the Australian industry is committed to a strategy that removes the need for mulesing to prevent flystrike in Australian sheep and that it would formally respond to the U.S. association concerns in August.

Revised FDA Import Alert

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:16:18 -0400

The Food and Drug Administration has posted revised versions of the following Import Alert on the detention without physical examination of:

99-04: Manufacturers of Low Acid Canned Foods and Acidified Foods

APHIS Agricultural Clearance PPQ Manual Updated

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:20:02 -0400

On June 30, 2010, APHIS updated the Manual for Agricultural Clearance. The manual provides CBP personnel working at airport and maritime locations with the guidelines, directions, and policy for clearing carriers and passengers/crew and controlling garbage and cargo.

NAM Says U.S. Should Negotiate More FTAs, Expand Export Promotion Programs, Etc.

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:26:29 -0400

The National Association of Manufacturers has issued a manufacturing strategy to create jobs and make the U.S. more competitive. Among its trade-related recommendations, NAM suggests that the U.S. enact the pending free trade agreements and negotiate additional FTAs, become more engaged in the WTO Doha Round, modernize the outdated export controls system, and expand export promotion programs and export credit assistance.

EU Official Journal Notices for July 2, 2010

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:33:32 -0400

In the July 2, 2010 edition of the Official Journal of the European Union, the following trade-related notices were posted:

Regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 367/2006 imposing a definitive countervailing duty on imports of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film originating in India;
Implementing Regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 452/2007 imposing a definitive anti-dumping duty on imports of ironing boards originating, inter alia, in Ukraine; and
Regulation establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables.

AMS Adds Certain Sulfurous Acid to National Substances List, Amends Tetracycline

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:18:19 -0400

The Agricultural Marketing Service has issued a final rule, effective July 7, 2010, which amends the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances by adding sulfurous acid to the List for use in organic crop production; and revising the annotation for tetracycline to eliminate the parenthetical reference and add an expiration date.

EPA Proposed Confidentiality Determinations for Data Required Under Mandatory GHG Rule

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:31:44 -0400

The Environmental Protection Agency has issued proposed confidentiality determinations for data required under the mandatory greenhouse gas reporting rule and proposed amendment to special rules governing certain information obtained under the Clean Air Act.

Presidential Proclamation Implements July 1st GSP Changes

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 11:48:43 -0400

President Obama has issued Proclamation 8539, which amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule to modify duty-free treatment and certain designations under the Generalized System of Preferences program. The proclamation makes two tariff numbers (beans and mixed vegetables) eligible for all GSP countries (rather than just the A+ countries). It also removes GSP benefits for five country/tariff number combinations (two types of India gold jewelry, certain Thailand tires and shrimp products, and certain wood from Brazil). These changes are effective for goods entered or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption on or after July 1, 2010.

ITC Issues 2010 Report on Services Trade, Requests Comments on 2011 Report

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 10:45:35 -0400

The International Trade Commission announces that its 2010 report, "Recent Trends in U.S. Services Trade," is available online and in CD and printed form. ITC also invites interested members of the public to furnish information in connection with the 2011 report by October 12, 2010. A press release on the 2010 report is also available here.

GEMS Initiative to Strengthen Commercial Cooperation between the U.S. and India

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 10:37:02 -0400

Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Francisco Sánchez announced the Growth in Emerging Metropolitan Sectors (GEMS) initiative at the June 30, 2010, “Accelerating Inclusive Growth: The Future of the U.S.-India Commercial Relationship” seminar in Washington. The initiative will focus on building commercial ties between the United States and India’s emerging regions.

OMB Approves BIS Final Rule to Revise CCL on Crime Control Activities

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 10:39:19 -0400

The Office of Management and Budget has approved a Bureau of Industry and Security final rule that will update and clarify certain items on the Commerce Control List that indicate "crime control" as a reason for control. The specific changes made by this rule include replacing obsolete terminology, adding items to illustrative lists of categories of items in certain entries, and removing duplicative or redundant controls.

ITC Final Negative AD/CV Injury Determinations on China Wire Decking, No Orders Issued

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 08:28:08 -0400

The International Trade Commission has determined that a U.S. industry is neither materially injured nor threatened with material injury by reason of imports of wire decking from China. As a result of these negative determinations, no antidumping or countervailing duty order will be issued on imports of wire decking from China.

House Appropriations Subcommittee Approved FY 2011 DOT Appropriations Bill

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 10:48:34 -0400

On July 1, 2010, the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies approved for full Committee action the Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies fiscal year 2011 Appropriations bill.

House and Senate Adjourn for Independence Day Recess

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 10:49:16 -0400

The House and Senate have adjourned for their Independence Day Recess. The House and Senate are scheduled to return on July 13, 2010 and July 12, 2010, respectively.

CIT Rules Canada Lumber with an Angle Cut is HTS 4407 Sawn Wood

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:39:15 -0400

In Canex International Lumber Sales Ltd., v. U.S., the Court of International Trade ruled that cut lumber, with an angle cut on one end and a square cut on the other end was properly classified as sawn wood under Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) 4407.10.0015 free of duty, and not as roof trusses under 4418.90.4020 at 3.2% ad valorem, or as other articles of wood under 4421.90.9840 at 3.3% ad valorem.

CITA Reduces 2010 TPL for Cotton/MMF Trousers from Nicaragua

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:49:25 -0400

The Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements is reducing the 2010 TPL for Nicaragua to 99,238,862 square meters equivalent to account for the shortfall in meeting the one-to-one commitment for cotton and man-made fiber woven trousers exported from Nicaragua to the U.S.

DDTC Posts July 7 DTAG Agenda on Certain Export Exemptions, Policies

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:39:18 -0400

The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls has posted the agenda for its July 7, 2010 Defense Trade Advisory Group Plenary Session, which includes working group discussions on the special exemption for the export of components and spare parts in support of previously exported U.S. origin items, and on the policy on the export/re-export of defense articles incorporated into EAR commodities.

APHIS Postentry Quarantine PPQ Manual for State Inspectors Updated

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:32:35 -0400

On June 23, 2010, APHIS updated its Postentry Quarantine PPQ Manual for State Inspectors. This manual covers procedures for conducting PEQ tasks beginning with the request to approve a growing site and ending with the release or refusal of the plant material.

PHMSA Requests Comments on Draft Radioactive Material Regulations Revision

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:41:40 -0400

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration is seeking public comment on a draft revision of the International Atomic Energy Agency's "Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material'' (TS-R-1), which is scheduled for publication in 2012. Comments are due by October 29, 2010.

OFAC Updates Regs to Reflect Changes to List of Blocked Persons, Etc.

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:42:23 -0400

The Office of Foreign Assets Control has issued a final rule, effective July 1, 2010, which amends Appendix A to 31 CFR Chapter V to reflect the addition to, or removal of persons with whom transactions and dealings are prohibited by various economic sanctions programs, and the addition of Somalia as a sanctions program, etc.

DOE to Establish Test Procedures, Energy Standards for HID Lamps

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:42:54 -0400

The U.S. Department of Energy has made a final determination, effective July 30, 2010, that energy conservation standards for certain high-intensity discharge lamps are technologically feasible and economically justified, which initiates the process of establishing test procedures and potential energy conservation standards for this equipment.

EU Organic Food Labeling Rules Take Effect July 1, 2010

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 14:26:31 -0400

The European Commission has issued a press release on new EU rules on organic food labeling which enter into force on July 1, 2010. The “Euro-Leaf” symbol will now be obligatory on pre-packaged organic food products that have been produced in any of EU Member States and meet the necessary standards. The logo remains optional for non-packed and imported organic products.

New House Bill Would Allow Non-Asset Based 3PLs to Join C-TPAT

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:22:19 -0400

On June 28, 2010, Representative Owens (D) introduced H.R. 5619, which would amend the SAFE Port Act to provide for the eligibility of non-asset based third party logistics providers (3PLs) that arrange international transportation of freight, including motor carrier brokers of property licensed by the Department of Transportation, to participate in the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program.