CALL: 1-800-284-7822
For local contact information, choose a location from the menus below.
News & Events > Industry News
Sep 3,2008
Update on Gulf Ports
 The Journal of Commerce is reporting that as of late yesterday several of the Gulf ports were awaiting channel surveys and checks on navigational aids before reopening and the lower Mississippi River remains closed pending Coast Guard evaluation and clean-up, but overall the region seems to. . . Read More

Aug 7,2008
Container Seal Requirement Takes Effect Oct. 15.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced that all loaded containers, including foreign cargo remaining on board, arriving by vessel at a port of entry in the U.S. on or after Oct. 15 are required to be sealed with a seal meeting the International Organization. . . Read More

Jul 29,2008
West Coast Ports Reach New Labor Agreement
 It what can only be termed exciting news for shippers and importers the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) late Monday announced a preliminary agreement on terms for a new contract which will cover more than 25,000 dockworkers at 29. . . Read More

May 30,2008
They're Here - Mandatory AES & Late Filing Penalties
 Well, the long awaited and much anticipated regulations requiring automated filing of export information, along with attendant penalties for late filing, will be officially published on Monday, June 2. These regulations will appear in that day’s Federal Register which, for the curious and brave, will. . . Read More

Mar 20,2008
Brazilian Customs Workers Strike Delaying Shipments
 Brazilian customs employees went on strike March 18 after nearly 98 percent of them voted in favor of that action March 11. Services that have been suspended as a result of the strike, which is expected to last until at least March 24, include most import. . . Read More

Feb 12,2008
Andean Trade Preference Act Expires on 2/29
 As many of you may have heard, the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) is set to expire on February 29. This agreement extends duty free status to most products imported into the U.S. from Colombia, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. The issue of whether to. . . Read More

Dec 31,2007
2008 HTS and Schedule B Numbers Now Available
 We wanted to let you all know that the 2008 Schedule B and HTS product classification numbers are available now and will actually become effective on January 1, without the chaos that marked the annual changeover last year. The HTS numbers must be used for. . . Read More

Sep 21,2007
10 + 2 Getting Closer
 It looks like the proposed rules for Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) latest security effort, the so-called "10 + 2" program, are almost ready for public view – and no doubt for a great deal of public comment as well. It is being reported that. . . Read More

Aug 3,2007
No Peak Season Congestion Seen for 2007
According to the Journal of Commerce North American ports are gearing up to handle record container volumes in August and again in October, but they should make it through the peak shipping season without experiencing any congestion problems,. Although the 10 ports in the U.S. and. . . Read More

Jul 26,2007
LA/Long Beach Talks Back On and Freight's Still Moving
 Well, it looks like negotiations between unionized office clerical workers and shipping lines in Los Angeles-Long Beach are back on again and the threat of an imminent strike there has receded for the time being. Although no negotiations were held Wednesday, amid veiled threats and. . . Read More

Jul 23,2007
LA/Long Beach Still Open as Contract Talks Continue
 Despite the date for a threatened strike having passed over a week ago both sides seem to be actively working toward a negotiated settlement, without resorting to a work stoppage or lock out. Longshore union office workers in Los Angeles-Long Beach and shipping line employers. . . Read More

Jul 13,2007
Dock Strike Possible in LA/Long Beach on July 16
 International Longshore and Warehouse Union office workers in Southern California, who have been working without a contract for some time, on Friday gave employers a deadline of midnight Sunday, July 15, for reaching agreement on a new contract. If the Office Clerical Unit strikes marine terminals. . . Read More

Jun 22,2007
Andean Trade Preferences Due To Expire on June 30
 On Saturday, June 30, the Andean trade preference program is due to expire and its renewal is both complicated and uncertain. A short-term renewal was granted in a trade bill last fall to allow time for passage of the Peru and Colombian Free Trade agreements, both. . . Read More

May 29,2007
REACH and BIS Export Seminars Coming to Texas
 The late spring export conference season seems to be in full bloom here in Texas. The first conference, and perhaps of most critical relevance to chemical exporters in the Gulf Coast area, is the upcoming REACH seminar. As many of you already know, the. . . Read More

Apr 30,2007
DEA Changes Regarding Export/Import Reporting Effective May 9
The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) published in the Federal Register on April 9, 2007 an interim final rule that will affect the reporting requirements of importers and exporters of List I and List II chemicals. List I and List II chemicals include a number of. . . Read More

Mar 2,2007
Dominican Republic Now Eligible for DR-CAFTA
 The White House has announced that one more country is now eligible for the benefits of the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA). As of March 1 the Dominican Republic became eligible for all benefits provided for in the agreement. However, as of. . . Read More

Feb 12,2007
2007 Schedule B and HTS Numbers Have Been Updated in the AES
 The Census Bureau has announced that, effective February 9, the Schedule B and Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) tables in the AES have been updated to accept the changes to the 2007 codes. Although the new numbers were to have been effective on Feb. 3, technical. . . Read More

Jan 31,2007
Japan To Finally Implement ISPM 15 on April 1
 Japan has finally decided to join the other major importing nations in implementing the ISPM 15 requirements for wood packing. This is the same requirement that the U.S., the European Union and a large number of other countries have implemented over the last couple of. . . Read More

Jan 24,2007
Both HTS and Schedule B Numbers Effective Feb. 3
 Hopefully, this will be our final message regarding the new 2007 tariff numbers. As most of you have already heard, the fully updated versions of both the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) numbers used for imports and the Schedule B numbers used for exports will be. . . Read More

Jan 4,2007
Draft Final 2007 HTS Now Available
 With uncharacteristic speed, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), reacting to the publication in today’s Federal Register of Proclamation 8097 and related proclamations, published a draft edition of the final (for now) 2007 U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule. This version, which is available at http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/ ,. . . Read More

Jan 3,2007
President Signs Various Trade Proclamations
 Last Friday, December 29, was an important day for those involved in importing. On that date President Bush issued a number of proclamations making numerous changes to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), import duties on pharmaceuticals, permanent normal trade. . . Read More

Dec 20,2006
The 2007 Tariff Process Becomes Clearer - Sort Of
 For several months now we have all been hearing about the wholesale changes that will be coming for the 2007 Harmonized Tariff Schedule. There was a great deal of justified concern about how the process for these changes would work here in the U.S., since. . . Read More

Dec 10,2006
GSP Renewed As Congress Goes Home
 It appears that, in the end, fatigue and weariness were more important than political considerations in securing an extension for GSP and ATPA. Both the Generalized System of Preferences and the Andean Trade Preference Act were due to expire on December 31. There had. . . Read More

Nov 1,2006
Tariff Changes in 2007 - Numerous and Probably Late
 As many of you are aware the 2007 edition of the U.S. Harmonized Tariff System (HTSUS) will incorporate all the changes to the Harmonized System that were decided by the World Customs Organization. These are major changes that will affect nearly 240 headings (4 digit. . . Read More

Sep 11,2006
Elite Hosts Trade Compliance Seminar Oct. 3
 Elite Group, in conjunction with its parent company BDP International, is pleased to announce its forthcoming International Trade Compliance Seminar. This seminar, which will take place in Houston on October 3, is designed to keep you on the cutting edge of the latest issues in. . . Read More

Aug 14,2006
More Bad News For Many GSP Users
 Early this past April we provided some information indicating that there seemed to be serious Congressional opposition toward renewing the existing GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) program, which expires on December 31 of this year. That story indicated that, at best, any renewal of GSP. . . Read More

Jul 11,2006
Customs Extends Deadline for C-TPAT Portal Update
 We have just received the information below which we wanted to pass on as quickly as possible. As importers involved in the Customs C-TPAT program know, Customs had established an August 1 deadline for them to access the new portal and update all information. . . . Read More

Jun 12,2006
Peak Season - Good News and Bad News
 The upcoming peak shipping season, which is starting to build now, will contain both good news and bad news for shippers. First, the good news is that this season should be relatively congestion free. Recent surveys have indicated that presently there is relatively little. . . Read More

May 26,2006
Are You Ready for UCP 600 - It's Coming
 For those of you who have complained for many years about the rules governing letters of credit, you may soon have a new set of rules, which you can then complain about for many more years. Specifically, I am referring to the existing guidelines found. . . Read More

May 2,2006
New Zealand Latest Country To Implement ISPM 15
 New Zealand has become the latest country to implement the ISPM 15 standards for wood packing materials. The New Zealand Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) announced that the new requirement went into effect on May 1. However, like the U.S., New Zealand will. . . Read More

Apr 11,2006
GSP Renewal in Doubt
 In a speech recently at a Washington conference on the future of international trade the House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Bill Thomas gave his views on pending trade issues, including the future of the Doha round of talks on international trade liberalization and renewal of. . . Read More

Apr 5,2006
CAFTA Takes Effect for Two More Countries
On April 1, the U.S./Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) went into effect for two more countries, Nicaragua and Honduras. This brings to three the number of countries that have met the requirements for the agreement to enter into force. The third country is El. . . Read More

Mar 28,2006
Still Time to Request Congressional Duty Relief
 On March 15, the House of Representatives passed the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act of 2006 (H.R. 4944), commonly called the Miscellaneous Tariff bill (MTB), by a vote of 412 to 2. The package contains numerous trade provisions, primarily duty suspensions or reductions for imports. . . Read More

Mar 10,2006
PierPass Fees To Rise
 It is being reported that PierPass, the program responsible for the extended gates program at the Port of Los Angeles-Long Beach, plans to raise fees for container moves during peak traffic hours. The head of PierPass told a meeting recently that the official announcement will. . . Read More

Feb 27,2006
El Salvador To Be First DR-CAFTA Implementation Country
 USTR Rob Portman announced on February 24 that El Salvador will become the first DR-CAFTA country approved under that trade agreement. Portman indicated that he had recommended that the President issue a proclamation making the agreement with that country effective as of March 1. . . . Read More

Feb 10,2006
U.S. Port and Transportation Infrastructure Severely Strained
 A report in the Los Angeles Times last weekend paints a picture that at first would appear to be good news for port officials and importers. According to the article international container traffic through all major ports in the U.S. increased in 2005. Historically,. . . Read More

Jan 27,2006
ISPM 15 Enforcement in U.S. to Begin February 1
 We wanted to remind you all of the impending implementation date for enforcement of the ISPM 15 requirements for shipments being imported into the U.S. as well as for U.S. exports to Mexico and Canada. As you may remember, the three NAFTA countries –. . . Read More

Jan 19,2006
EU Port Plan Soundly Defeated
 In the words of a Lloyd’s writer, “The European parliament put the access to port services directive out of its misery yesterday.” As some of you may have been aware, the European Commission, which is the EU’s executive body, had put forth a plan which. . . Read More

Jan 9,2006
Principal La Guaira - Caracas Highway Closed Indefintely
 We have learned that on January 5, 2006, the government of Venezuela closed the freeway between La Guaira and Caracas, due to the collapse of a viaduct which ran under the highway. The collapse caused the road to sink several feet, rendering it completely. . . Read More

Jan 4,2006
C-TPAT Seminar Registration Now Open
 We wanted to alert all of you that may be interested that Customs has opened up registration for its upcoming C-TPAT seminar a day early (see our News Alert of Dec. 23.). Registration is now being accepted, apparently as of this morning. Seating is. . . Read More

Dec 23,2005
Customs To Host C-TPAT Seminars
 U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently announced that it will be presenting its next Supply Chain Security Training for C-TPAT certified partners. The training will be held March 1st - 3rd in Costa Mesa, California. Registration, which is for C-TPAT certified partners only, begins on January. . . Read More

Dec 12,2005
Free Trade Agreements - Jan. 1, 2006 and Beyond
 For the past couple of years one of the events beginning the new year in the U.S. has been the implementation of one or more Free Trade Agreements (FTA’s). On Jan. 1, 2004, the U.S. implemented FTA’s with Chile and Singapore. On Jan. 1. . . Read More

Nov 30,2005
A Reminder - China Implements ISPM Jan. 1
 We wanted to remind all shippers of the impending implementation of the ISPM 15 wood packing regulations in China, which will become effective on January 1, 2006. As most of you are probably aware the internationally accepted ISPM 15 rules require shippers to either heat. . . Read More

Nov 30,2005
December 31 Deadline for Missing Bulk Chemical Data
 The Coast Guard has notified chemical manufacturers, among others, that there is a December 31, 2005 deadline to supply missing safety or pollution data for the revised International Code for the Construction & Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code), which will affect. . . Read More

Nov 21,2005
Port and Rail Strikes in the EU - It's Time Again
It would seem the winter strike season in Europe is beginning a little early this year. At all major ports in the European Union today port workers staged a one day strike. They are once more protesting the European Commission’s latest version of a. . . Read More

Nov 9,2005
Costa Rica Again Wants Export Data
 As many of you may remember, in early 2004 Costa Rica implemented an import requirement that mandated presentation of the export entry from the country of export. Here in the U.S. the only equivalent document is the Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED), which the Census Department’s. . . Read More

Oct 25,2005
India Container Seal Requirement Clarified
 The issue of security seals at one, some or all Indian ports has been circulating for the last couple of months. Some steamship companies were issuing notices indicating that Indian Customs was requiring all containers entering and exiting the country to have single-use security seals. . . Read More

Oct 24,2005
Australian Ports Clogged As Containers Stack Up
 Depending on which group you talk to, either Australian Customs is single handily shutting down international trade in that country or importers and freight forwarders there are so incompetent that they can’t figure out how to pick up cleared containers. However, the one thing that. . . Read More

Oct 14,2005
Rising Rates, Declining Service - Survey Says "Railroads"
 Several publications, including the Journal of Commerce, have recently reported on some of the results of Morgan Stanley's latest semi-annual shipper survey, particularly those portions dealing with rail rates and service. The normal expectation would be that poor service is either the result of low. . . Read More

Oct 6,2005
ISPM 15 in Brazil - A Study in International Uncertainty
 In what can only be viewed as an extreme example of the lack of consistency and transparency facing international shippers, we set about trying to determine the status of the ISPM 15 wood packing regulations for shipments going to Brazil. We assumed that the most. . . Read More

Oct 4,2005
Customs Status and Other Matters On the Gulf Coast
 The recovery from the hurricanes along the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast continues, although in some places much more slowly than in others. Hurricane Rita caused only moderate damage to facilities and cargo at the Port of Lake Charles, enabling the port to fully reopen for. . . Read More

Sep 29,2005
Rail and Port Updates After Katrina and Rita
 Railroads operating in Texas and Louisiana reported little damage and continue to clear tracks of fallen trees following Hurricane Rita. Union Pacific Railroad indicated that it suffered no catastrophic damage to track structure, bridges or yards. The hurricane affected about 2,500 miles of UP track. . . Read More

Sep 27,2005
Houston Ship Channel Opens
 The Coast Guard announced yesterday that the Houston Ship Channel was reopened to vessels with a draft of 35 feet or less, meaning large tankers carrying crude weren't able to enter. It had been hoped that these big ships might be able to enter as early. . . Read More

Sep 26,2005
Elite and Houston Returning to Normal After Rita
 First of all, we want to let you all of you know that Elite is back and fully operational as of the first thing this Monday morning. All computer systems are functioning properly and no information was lost due to the storm. All files,. . . Read More

Sep 21,2005
Houston Port and Terminals Shutting Down
 The Port of Houston officially closed operations at 1:00 PM today to finalize preparations for the arrival of Hurricane Rita. No further deliveries of containers will be accepted after 3 PM. Final cargo operations are being concluded to release any vessels remaining to. . . Read More

Sep 20,2005
Update on Hurricane Rita and the Port of Houston
 This morning, Hurricane Rita was upgraded to a dangerous Category 4 hurricane, with expected landfall south of Freeport, Texas late Friday night or early Saturday morning.

Houston and Galveston are in the severe northeast quadrant of the storm. Mandatory evacuation of Galveston, Texas City, La Porte,. . . Read More

Sep 20,2005
Hurricane Rita Already Affecting Shipping at Ports of Houston and Galveston
 Rita, the tropical storm that is now a category 2 hurricane and still intensifying, has already begun causing problems to international shipping. Even though it is at least three to four days away from the Texas Gulf Coast, shipping lines have already begun taking precautions. . . Read More

Sep 14,2005
U.S. Wood Packing Enforcement Delayed
 In a change from previously announced information Customs and USDA have now initiated a three-phase approach to the implementation of the new solid wood packing regulations. As we had indicated previously, the U.S. announced a year ago that it would begin enforcing the requirements of. . . Read More

Sep 9,2005
Cargo Moving Despite Katrina's Devastation
 Ports along the central Gulf of Mexico are starting to recover from the devastating affects of Hurricane Katrina. The Mississippi River has been reopened for limited movement, which, in conjunction with the continuing restoration of electricity, has allowed ships to move to and from grain. . . Read More

Sep 8,2005
More Consequences From Katrina
 Although the chemical and petrochemical industries have been hard hit by the catastrophe called Katrina, other key sectors have also been greatly affected. The port of New Orleans was the hub of the U.S. grain export business. Before Katrina, about 60 percent of the. . . Read More

Sep 6,2005
Katrina's Aftermath - Update 9/6
 Although the human tragedy of Hurricane Katrina will be played out for months or even years, the situation for seaborne transportation in and around New Orleans continues to improve. The Mississippi River is now open in one direction to ships with a draft of 35 feet. . . Read More

Sep 2,2005
Katrina's Aftermath - Sept. 2
 As the human tragedy that is Hurricane Katrina grows in immensity, the international shipping situation in the area continues to be grim. Ports and inland transportation in the central Gulf Coast region remain closed. It is expected that some of the worst-damaged facilities will not reopen. . . Read More

Sep 1,2005
Katrina's Aftermath - An Update
 In an effort to keep you informed regarding the continuing effects of Hurricane Katrina on international cargo movements, we are providing information pulled from various news sources. First, regarding the port of New Orleans itself, the following assessment is provided by the Seaports Industry Update,. . . Read More

Aug 30,2005
Katrina Paralyzes Transportation Infrastructure
 By now we have all heard and seen the havoc and destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina as it roared through the central Gulf Coast area. In addition to the vast human impact, international trade infrastructure was also severely affected. Early Monday morning, even before. . . Read More

Aug 18,2005
NAFTA Countries & Wood Packing On September 16
 As we indicated in a News Alert last month, the U.S. is set to implement new regulations regarding solid wood packing. These regulations, which will be effective for all shipments that arrive in the U.S. on or after September 16, 2005, implement the international. . . Read More

Aug 12,2005
Items of Interest - Port Congestion and Freight Rates
A couple of recent announcements should be of interest to shippers. First, in a new monthly survey assessing dockside conditions, the National Retail Federation (NRF) indicated that, even though container traffic is up from a year ago, last year’s congestion nightmare has yet to reappear.. . . Read More

Aug 5,2005
PierPASS Off to a Late But Smooth Start
 PierPASS, the program designed to lessen the traffic and pollution impact of truck movements into and out of the terminals at the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, appears to be off to a reasonably successful start. There was some delay in actually charging. . . Read More

Jul 19,2005
Elite Ready For PierPass
 PierPASS, the non-profit organization created by Los Angeles and Long Beach marine terminal operators, is getting ready to launch its OffPeak initiative on July 23. According to PierPASS, the objective of the OffPeak program is to provide an incentive for cargo owners to move marine containers. . . Read More

Jul 8,2005
Warning & Reminder - U.S. Implements Wood Packing Rules on Sept. 16
 As September is fast approaching, we thought it would be advisable to remind all importers of the impending implementation of the wood packing regulations here in the U.S. As we reported last year, the United States is implementing the international standard for solid wood packing,. . . Read More

Jun 24,2005
PierPass – More Bad News For Shippers
 One of the outstanding questions pertaining to the new PierPass program at Los Angeles and Long Beach terminals has been who will pay in door moves that are not intermodal and don’t move through the Alameda Corridor. Specifically, the issue would involve containers that are. . . Read More

Jun 17,2005
Wood Packing and ISPM 15 Update
 In the face of continuing questions and concerns regarding wood packing requirements and the international ISPM 15 standard, it seemed useful to provide an update on present and future implementations. I am including two web links with this article that, together, seem to have the. . . Read More

Jun 9,2005
PierPass Schedule Changes & New Fees May Be Imposed
 PierPass’ ever-shifting implementation schedule has changed once again. As reported previously, the plan was to begin initially on July 23, with gradual movement toward full implementation by the end of August. As you may remember, PierPass is the program developed by the ports of. . . Read More

Jun 2,2005
Elite and BDP Join Forces
 HOUSTON, Texas USA, PHILADELPHIA, Pa., - June 2, 2005 — BDP International® (BDP), a leading privately held global logistics and transportation services company, has acquired Elite Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (Elite), it was announced today by Richard J. Bolte, Jr., president of BDP, and Mark. . . Read More

May 24,2005
PierPass Almost Here - Time to Change or Pay
 Well, it looks like PierPass is finally here. This is the much publicized program in the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach that is supposed to encourage container movement at other than the peak daytime hours. This will be accomplished by assessing a. . . Read More

May 20,2005
Canada Rail Strike Averted - Just Barely
 Apparently threats do work. The Canadian National Railway said it reached a tentative contract deal with its Canadian locomotive engineers on Tuesday evening, averting a strike that threatened freight and commuter train service across Canada. The company and the union, Teamsters Canada Rail Conference,. . . Read More

May 16,2005
Canadian National Railway Faces Likely Strike Wednesday
 It appears likely that the Canadian National Railway, Canada’s largest railroad, will face a strike at 12:01 AM on Wednesday morning, May 18. The 1,700 unionized locomotive engineers, who are members of Teamsters Canada Rail Conference, set the strike after negotiations Thursday failed to produce. . . Read More

May 10,2005
Maersk, P&O Nedlloyd in Merger Talks
 A.P. Møller-Mærsk A/S, the parent company of the world’s biggest container line, Maersk Sealand, confirmed this morning that it is in merger talks with Royal P&O Nedlloyd NV. This announcement was made as a result of P&O Nedlloyd’s advice to the Amsterdam stock exchange that. . . Read More

May 2,2005
European Ports May See Strike Actions Again
 As if importers and exporters don’t have enough to worry about already – increasing freight rates, difficulty in finding space on some trade lanes and port congestion, among others – the specter of port disruption in the European Union is rising once again. As many. . . Read More

Apr 22,2005
TACA's Prior Notice Rules Preview of Things To Come
 On April 18 the Trans-Atlantic Conference Agreement – TACA - published a news release detailing its new rules for U.S. exporters. The conference, which includes Atlantic Container Line, Hapag Lloyd, Mediterranean Shipping Co., Maersk Sealand, NYK Line, OOCL and P&O Nedlloyd, has become increasingly concerned. . . Read More

Apr 21,2005
South Korea To Implement ISPM 15 - With a Twist
 The Republic of South Korea is officially set to implement the ISPM 15 requirements with regards to solid wood packing materials. The implementation date currently is set for June 1, 2005. This means that all shipments exported on or after that date will. . . Read More

Apr 7,2005
C-TPAT Membership Just Got Harder
 Customs and Border Protection’s premier supply chain security program has just gotten more difficult. On March 25 Customs released its long awaited “mandatory” requirements for joining its “voluntary” program, Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). The elements contained in the new rules are elements that. . . Read More

Mar 30,2005
Terminals Reduce Free Time & Increase Demurrage in NY Area
 In an announcement that is probably a preview of what will happen at other ports, the five terminals in the New York Terminal Conference have announced that they will reduce the number of days allowed for free time and increase the demurrage rates after free time. . . Read More

Mar 18,2005
The Coming Trucking Crisis - Get Ready Now
 I have just returned from the annual conference of the NCBFAA, which is the trade association for customs brokers and freight forwarders. The one issue that kept being repeated was the coming crisis in short-haul port trucking, especially in the larger ports. The bottom. . . Read More

Mar 11,2005
Customs' Future Focused on Antiterrorism Fight
 US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently posted to its website its 2005-2010 Strategic Plan. This plan, the first to be issued since CBP’s creation as an agency within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), unequivocally establishes the fight against terrorism as Customs single focus and. . . Read More

Feb 25,2005
Outlook for 2005 - Higher Costs, More Congestion
 Here it is only February and already shipping industry executives are beginning to sound the alarm for this year’s peak season shipping, especially on the West Coast. An executive from the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement was quoted as indicating that the increases from $285. - $430.. . . Read More

Feb 17,2005
Census Finally Publishes Mandatory Electronic SED Rules
 The Census Bureau has finally published its long awaited rules ending the option of filing a Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED) on paper. These revisions of current requirements, which appear in the February 17 edition of the Federal Register, have been in the making for more. . . Read More

Feb 7,2005
DEA Postpones New Import/Export Reporting Requirement for Chemicals
 On December 15, 2004 the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) published a final rule dealing with mixtures that contain regulated List I and List II chemicals, the so-called precursor chemicals. This rule basically declared that chemical mixtures containing a specified minimum amount of the regulated chemicals. . . Read More

Feb 3,2005
C-TPAT Application Streamlined for ACC Members
 The American Chemistry Council (ACC) has announced that it has been able to negotiate a streamlined C-TPAT application process for ACC members, due to the Responsible Care Security Code. For those not familiar with C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) it is the premier program of. . . Read More

Jan 18,2005
ISPM 15 For The EU Set For March 1
 As many of you already know the European Union will be implementing the ISPM 15 standards for all wood packing materials on March 1 of this year. This means that all the covered materials, which are essentially any wood used as packing of any kind,. . . Read More

Jan 12,2005
Denied Party Screening Made Easy
 Anyone familiar with export compliance requirements has heard of the Denied Party lists that various government agencies maintain. These are lists of various individuals, companies, government entities or even entire countries that U.S. companies are prohibited from dealing with. Violation of any of these. . . Read More

Jan 6,2005
Port Strike In Israel - New Year, Same Old Problems
 The Israeli newspaper Ha'aretz is reporting today that a strike at Israel’s three major ports may begin sooner than the previously announced two weeks from now. The threatened strike at Haifa, Eilat and Ashdod is the result of the continuing clash between labor and the. . . Read More

Dec 22,2004
Final Items for the Year
 Perhaps the dominant issue for U.S. shippers in 2004 has been the unprecedented congestion on the West Coast, particularly at Los Angeles-Long Beach. The labor shortages there, coupled with a number of transportation issues, combined to generate significant delays for both import and export. . . Read More

Dec 6,2004
No Certification of Origin for Australia FTA
 As many of you are aware the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Australia and the United States should go into effect on January 1. Both countries’ legislatures have ratified the agreement and their heads of state have signed the implementing legislation. Although U.S. Customs. . . Read More

Nov 18,2004
US-Australia FTA Will Definitely Take Effect on January 1.
The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) announced on November 17 that the US and Australia have finalized arrangements to bring their bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) into force on January 1, 2005. Specifically, the two sides have exchanged diplomatic notes certifying that each other’s. . . Read More

Nov 10,2004
Supreme Court Rules on Intermodal Liability
 In what is certainly a relief for carriers of all types, the Supreme Court ruled on November 9 that, in an international intermodal ocean contract of carriage that contains a Himalaya” clause, all sections of the contracted movement are covered by that clause. This clause. . . Read More

Oct 29,2004
Trans-Atlantic Container Rates to Rise Substantially
 The Trans-Atlantic Conference Agreement announced on October 28 that it plans to substantially increase its tariff rates in 2005. The carriers, which include Atlantic Container Line AB, Hapag Lloyd, Mediterranean Shipping, Maersk Sealand, NYK Lines, OOCL and P&O Nedlloyd, plan increases for both eastbound and. . . Read More

Oct 18,2004
Canada - Strikes and Inspections
 First of all, it appears that the government workers’ strike in Canada, which had caused significant delays at some border crossings last week, is over for now. Striking employees were told by their union leaders on Friday to stop their protests and return to work. . . . Read More

Oct 13,2004
Little Initial Impact from Canada Customs Strike
 As some of you may have heard, yesterday, October 12, some 120,000 Canadian federal public servants went on strike, including those at U.S. border crossings and seaports. This number included some 10,500 union employees of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Canadian equivalent of. . . Read More

Oct 12,2004
Is Peak Season Ever Going To End?
 As tired as we all probably are of hearing about it, the problems at Long Beach and Los Angeles remain the single dominant issue affecting most importers and exporters. One report by the NCBFAA (National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America) is even comparing. . . Read More

Sep 27,2004
Retailer's Strategy To Impact LA-Long Beach
 The NCBFAA (the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America) is reporting today that a change in Wal-Mart’s import inventory strategy may make an already bad situation significantly worse. The problems resulting from the congestion at the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. . . Read More

Sep 17,2004
U.S. To Implement Wood Packing Rules On Sept. 16, '05
 The U.S. Department of Agriculture has finally published its long awaited final rules on solid wood packing used on imports into the United States. The announcement appeared in the September 16 Federal Register, although it has yet to be reflected in the Department’s APHIS (Animal. . . Read More

Sep 14,2004
LA/Long Beach - The Seemingly Never-Ending Story
 The Journal of Commerce is reporting today that the vessel backlog in Los Angeles-Long Beach reached a three-month high Monday. This is despite the fact that hundreds of additional longshoremen have been hired over the last few weeks and despite the best efforts by the. . . Read More

Aug 25,2004
Long Beach/LA to Charge Container Fee of $20
 We have reported recently about the congestion and other problems that continue to plague the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. One of the solutions announced recently was the hiring of thousands of new dock workers. Another solution just announced is directed toward having. . . Read More

Aug 23,2004
Trains, Boats, Etc. - The Problems Go On
 We received the following report late on Friday. In addition to all the less than cheery news below, we have also learned of an intense fire in a train tunnel in Oregon that is the major north-south route from the Northwest to California ports. . . . Read More

Aug 17,2004
Wood Packing Update
 As we approach the last part of the year, we thought it useful to provide an update regarding the implementation of the international standard for wood packing, the ISPM 15. This standards requires all types of wood packing, dunnage, etc, entering these countries to be. . . Read More

Aug 9,2004
Another Sign of the Times - Vessel Held at Anchor for a Week
 In a story that is an unfortunate sign of the times, a vessel was held off the port of New York for a week based on an anonymous report. Apparently the Coast Guard received information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture of a possible “unknown. . . Read More

Jul 27,2004
Surge in Volume Contributes to LA-Long Beach Backlogs
The Journal of Commerce is reporting that containerized imports from Asia continued to surge in June. Container traffic for imports through Long Beach increased by 27.6 percent, and by 13 percent in Los Angeles, compared to June of last year. The LA-Long Beach port complex handles. . . Read More

Jul 16,2004
Australia - U.S. FTA Legislation Passes Easily
 On July 15 the U.S. Senate passed legislation to implement the Australia - U.S. Free Trade Agreement. This followed quick passage of the same legislation by the House the previous day. The bill will now go to the president for his signature. This. . . Read More

Jul 7,2004
ISPS and MTSA After One Week
The most recent information from the U.S. Coast Guard indicates that there have been few problems during the first few days of its enforcement of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), both of which took effect. . . Read More

Jun 30,2004
Philippines Requires Heat Treatment as of June 1.
 Apparently the Philippines has joined the growing list of countries that have implemented the ISPM 15 standard for wood packing. This standard requires specific forms of treatment for the wood and specific markings on the wood to indicate compliance. Effective June 1, 2004 all wood. . . Read More

Jun 24,2004
Possible Nation-Wide Port Truckers Strike, Etc.
 The Journal of Commerce is reporting today that port truckers are again calling for a nationwide strike to protest high fuel prices and inadequate working conditions at the nation's ports. The strike is being called for the week of June 28-July 4, which is also the. . . Read More

Jun 22,2004
ISPS Code Update - Not Quite So Bleak
 The NITL (National Industrial Transportation League) reports that it recently joined with other interested groups in meeting with U.S. Coast Guard officials to discuss its enforcement efforts pertaining to the new ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) code. The Coast Guard said all vessels. . . Read More

Jun 1,2004
New ISPS Code Bound To Cause Delays After July 1
 July 1 may not be a welcome day for shippers around the world. The head of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) said on May 25 that almost 95% of the world’s seaports and commercial vessels are still not in compliance with the International Ship and. . . Read More

May 20,2004
U.S. and Australia Formally Sign Free Trade Agreement
 On May 18, the US and Australia signed a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at a ceremony in Washington, DC. According to the US Trade Representative (USTR), this agreement, the negotiations for which were concluded earlier this year, will eliminate more than 99% of Australia’s import. . . Read More

May 13,2004
Syrian Sanctions Prohibit Nearly All Exports
 It appears that the sanctions imposed against Syria are more far-reaching that we first believed. In rereading the presidential proclamation it appears that the export of all goods except food and medicine is prohibited. It does not matter that an exporter may have. . . Read More

May 12,2004
New Syrian Sanctions Imposed By President
 On Tuesday, May 12, President Bush issued an Executive Order that affects exports to Syria. Initial reports concerning this order indicated that it had banned all exports from the U.S. to Syria. However, in reading the actual order, it appears to be far narrower. . . Read More

May 6,2004
Good News, Bad News and Possibly Even Worse News
 For the good news part, it appears that the chaotic, often violent three-day truckers protest in Oakland has come to an end, and apparently none too soon. According to the Journal of Commerce, the announcement came just as an additional 50 police officers, in full. . . Read More

May 3,2004
Monday Morning Mess at West Coast Terminals
 Monday morning has just gotten a lot worse for shippers and terminal operators at California’s main ports. Last Friday saw a near total work stoppage by harbor truckers protesting high fuel prices at California's container ports. Terminal operators in Los Angeles-Long Beach and. . . Read More

Apr 19,2004
EU Enlargement on May 1 Will Have Duty Consequences
 On May 1, 2004 the European Union is set to add 10 new members, mostly from the formerly Communist controlled Eastern Europe. The newest members are Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. For companies that are either. . . Read More

Apr 16,2004
Wood Packing Update - Australia, India, Etc.
 Australia has become the latest country to announce that it will implement the international standards laid out in ISPM 15 for wood packing of various kinds. These are the same standards that the U.S. will adopt in the coming months, as soon as the government. . . Read More

Apr 14,2004
Advance Notification for Rail Imports to Begin in July
 The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a notice informing rail carriers of the dates at which they will have to start transmitting advance electronic cargo information for imports under the advance manifest rules. By way of background, the Trade Act of. . . Read More

Apr 5,2004
India Implements Wood Packing Standards
 There has been some concern, and lots of rumors and conflicting information, regarding India’s imposition of new requirements on wood packing for imported cargo. In its Import Order 2003, the Indian government indicated that it would implement the new international standard for wood packing, the. . . Read More

Apr 2,2004
Brazil Customs Workers Begin Intermittent Strike
 It appears that Customs officials in Brazil have fired the opening shot in their battle with the government over higher pay and other work related issues. The Customs workers there staged a one day strike on April 1, basically to show how serious they were.. . . Read More

Mar 25,2004
ILA and Management Reach Early Contract Agreement
 The Journal of Commerce is reporting that a new six-year master contract has been agreed to by negotiators for the International Longshoremen's Association and waterfront management. This agreement comes more than six moths before the September 30 expiration date of the present contract. The. . . Read More

Mar 17,2004
Customs Employees May Strike in Brazil
 We have just learned from our office in Brazil that the Customs employees in that country staged a 24-hour walk out today. This was apparently the first step in what might be a much more prolonged action starting on April 1. The information that. . . Read More

Mar 9,2004
Costa Rica - No SED To Be Required
 We have just obtained a copy of a memo from the Director of Customs in Costa Rica touching on the issue of requiring a copy of the SED for cargo from the U.S. This directive, DGA-04-2004 of March 4, recognizes that certain countries may prohibit. . . Read More

Mar 8,2004
Prior Notification for Air Shipments Postponed
 In a not unexpected announcement, Customs (CBP) announced on March 4 that it has postponed the March 4 starting date for the advance electronic presentation of air cargo information on inbound shipments. This has resulted in an entirely revised implementation schedule, at least as far. . . Read More

Mar 2,2004
Costa Rica and SED's - A Solution?
 As we indicated in our message last week the U.S. Census Bureau has very strongly advised U.S. shippers and freight forwarders not to provide copies of SED’s to comply with the new Customs regulations in Costa Rica. We have since learned that the regulations in. . . Read More

Feb 27,2004
Census Bureau Says No To SED For Costa Rica Customs
 Printed below, in its entirety, is a message from the U.S. Census Bureau regarding the presentation of a copy of the SED to Costa Rica for compliance with its new law, which is to be effective on March 5. Two things should be noted. . . . Read More

Feb 23,2004
Air Import Prior Notification Still Set For March 4
As you all may possibly recall, last December 5 Customs published the final rules for its prior notification requirements for imports and exports. The rules were set to go into effect on March 4, except for all exports, and rail and truck imports. So,. . . Read More

Feb 18,2004
EU To Impose Punitive Duties On Selected U.S. Poducts on March 1
 It appears that the European Union’s patience is finally running out. The EU is expected to impose sanctions, in the form of additional import duties, against US exports beginning March 1 because of the Extraterritorial Income Exclusion Act (ETI) dispute. The EU had won a. . . Read More

Feb 16,2004
Australia and the U.S. Sign Free Trade Agreement
 The United States and Australia finally signed a free-trade agreement on Feb. 8 that officials say will eliminate duties from more than 99 percent of American manufacturing exports to Australia. The deal also will boost most agricultural trade between the two countries on products ranging from. . . Read More

Feb 2,2004
U.S./Europe Eastbound Rates To Increase
 The Journal of Commerce reported last week that the two major transatlantic shipping conferences have announced increases in the eastbound U.S. to Europe rates, effective April 1. The larger of the two conferences, the Transatlantic Conference Agreement (TACA) announced a general rate increase of $120. . . Read More

Jan 26,2004
New Requirements For Shipments to Costa Rica
 The General Customs Law of Costa Rica will be changed substantially, effective on March 5, 2004. These changes appeared in Law 8373, which was officially published there on September 5, 2003. Most of the changes affect the organization, structure and other internal issues for. . . Read More

Jan 6,2004
FTA's With Chile And Singapore Go Into Effect
 On December 30, the president finally signed two proclamations that implemented the Free Trade Agreements between the U.S. and Chile and the U.S and Singapore, effective January 1. It is not clear why they waited until the last minute to sign the proclamations, since they. . . Read More

Dec 24,2003
Customs is Looking For A Few Good Ideas
 The Journal of Commerce is reporting in its on-line edition that the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is searching for what it terms "innovative concepts" in container security. It wasn’t mentioned whether Customs had run out of ideas of its own or if. . . Read More

Dec 17,2003
New Canadian Prime Minister Creates Border Super Agency
 On Friday, December 12, one of the first actions of the new Canadian Prime Minister (Paul Martin) was to create the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). This new agency, which will be part of the new Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (very much. . . Read More

Dec 11,2003
Shipping Conferences Announce Rate Increases for 2004
 The two major trans-Atlantic conferences have both announced increases in their westbound rates for next year. The Trans-Atlantic Conference Agreement (TACA) announced a proposed westbound rate increase of $400 per 20-foot container and $500 per 40- or 45-foot container, effective April 1. That conference also indicated. . . Read More

Dec 5,2003
FDA Bioterrorism Enforcement To Be Gradual
 The FDA and the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced on Dec. 4 specifics of the initial procedures and policies that will govern enforcement of the Prior Notification (PN) section of the Bioterrorism Act (BTA). Previously these two organizations had indicated that there would. . . Read More

Dec 4,2003
Customs To Raise the Bar For C-TPAT Membership
 At the recent trade symposium hosted by the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Commissioner Robert Bonner announced that his organization was going to raise the bar for participants in its C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) program. Not content with physical security arrangements for. . . Read More

Nov 24,2003
Customs Reveals Details of Final Prior Notification Rules
 The Bureau Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has finally issued its rules for prior notification for cargo entering and exiting the United States. The broad outlines were presented by Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge during a keynote speech to a CBP sponsored trade symposium last. . . Read More

Nov 11,2003
EU Set To Impose Steel Retaliation Duties Against US
 It appears that things are heating up in the trade disputes between the U.S. and the European Union. As we reported last month, the EU had threatened to impose additional duties on a wide range of U.S. goods. These disputes involve the U.S. steel. . . Read More

Oct 31,2003
U.S. Solid Wood Packing Rules - Update
 On May 20 of this year we published a News Alert dealing with the proposed new standards for solid wood packing on shipments coming into the U.S. Comments on these rules were due by July 21. The target implementation date for these new rules. . . Read More

Oct 29,2003
Changes In AES/SED Reporting Requirements
 In July of this year the Census Bureau published some final regulations that were primarily aimed at requiring exporters of certain licensed cargo – USML and CCL listed goods – to file their export declarations via AES (Automated Export Service). The effective date of this. . . Read More

Oct 17,2003
Cost of Not Joining C-TPAT Escalates
 It appears that Customs was really serious about how it planned to treat importers who were not C-TPAT members. Several of our customers have been experiencing a significant number of exams of their imported cargo recently, especially in New York/Newark. We contacted inspectors from. . . Read More

Oct 14,2003
EU Ready To Take Action on Trade Sanctions
It is being reported that the European Commission has begun developing legislation that would allow the European Union (EU) to impose up to $4 billion in trade sanctions against the US. This is the result of a ruling by the World Trade Organization (WTO) that said. . . Read More

Oct 3,2003
Labor Issues Affecting Ports Around The World
 This has been an exceptionally news-filled week on the international port labor front. First of all, in Vancouver the Waterfront Foremen Employers Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 514, which represents dock foremen, have reached agreement on a new contract. The. . . Read More

Sep 30,2003
Customs To Miss Oct. 1 Deadline
 It is being reported by a number of sources that Customs will not make its Oct. 1 target date for publishing the final rules requiring advance electronic reporting of cargo data for exports and imports in all transportation modes. The draft of these rules was published. . . Read More

Sep 26,2003
All Israeli Ports To Be Hit By Strike On Sept. 30.
 It is being reported that beginning on September 30, all port workers in Israel will be on strike, effectively closing all ports in that country. Apparently, the Government has decided to split the Israeli Port Authorities into Government controlled self sustained individual ports, with each. . . Read More

Sep 11,2003
TACA Eastbound Rates To Increase Oct. 1
 The Trans-Atlantic Conference Agreement TACA) has announced that the next phase of its Eastbound Conference Tariff restoration measures, announced in May, will take effect on Oct. 1 as planned. The increase for dry van and temperature-controlled containers are as follows: For containers shipping from and via. . . Read More

Sep 4,2003
Customs Announces Second C-TPAT Seminar
 The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection – CBP – has just announced its second Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) training seminar, which will held on October 27-30 in San Francisco. This seminar is open only to C-TPAT members and priority will be given to those. . . Read More

Sep 3,2003
Customs Opens C-TPAT To Foreign Companies - Sort Of
 As promised earlier in the year, the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection has opened the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) to participation by foreign manufacturers, but on a far more limited basis than had initially been indicated. The first phase of this new segment. . . Read More

Aug 20,2003
Haiti to Implement Preshipment Inspection On Aug. 25
 We have just been informed that the country of Haiti is going to begin requiring preshipment inspections for all cargo arriving in that country. For reasons not known to us they have made it effective for all cargo with a bill of lading date of. . . Read More

Aug 18,2003
Free Trade Agreement Season in Full Swing
 The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) season seems to be in full swing in Washington, perhaps a sign of the slow political activity that normally occurs in August. On July 31 the Senate approved legislation to implement free trade agreements (FTA's) with Chile and Singapore. The two. . . Read More

Aug 11,2003
AES Option 4 Filing Deadline is August 15
The Census Bureau has recently announced that the deadline for filing a letter of intent for option 4 filing privilege under the AES program for 2004 is August 15. For shippers not familiar with this concept, being granted the option 4 privilege by Census allows. . . Read More

Aug 8,2003
Trans-Atlantic Rates to Increase Oct. 1
 The Journal of Commerce is reporting today that the Trans-Atlantic Conference Agreement (TACA) has said that it is raising rates by $400 per 20-foot container and $500 per 40- and 45-foot container as of Oct. 1. Rates for other freight will increase by $25 by weight. . . Read More

Aug 6,2003
What Will Really Change on Oct. 1?
 For the last several months many in the international trade community have had the date of October 1 lurking menacingly in the back of their minds. This was the day that the newly named Bureau of Customs and Border Protection was required by law to. . . Read More

Jul 29,2003
Canada and the EU To Implement Advance Manifest Rules Too
 Canada and the European Union have both joined the U.S. in requiring advance notification for cargo. The Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) announced on July 22 that it has issued proposed regulations that would establish new timeframes for advance cargo reporting for imports by all. . . Read More

Jul 21,2003
Venezuela Postpones Preshipment Inspection to Sept. 1
 Customs in Venezuela has once again postponed the implementation date for its preshipment inspection program. As you may remember, the original decree was published in November of last year. The initial delay involved the certification of the firms that were to perform these inspections.. . . Read More

Jul 18,2003
Customs Makes Its "Oct. 1" Prenotification Proposals Available
 According to the Journal of Commerce today, Customs has finally made its revised prenotification regulations available for public review. They are apparently scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on July 23. With a few exceptions, the rules will be effective in 90 days,. . . Read More

Jul 17,2003
Where Are Those October 1 Proposals?
 At the beginning of this year U.S. Customs - now known as the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) - published what it termed “strawman” proposals for implementing certain preshipment notification requirements. Under the Trade Act of 2002 the agency was mandated to have. . . Read More

Jul 11,2003
Changes in GSP Product List Effective July 1
 On July 1 President Bush signed a proclamation expanding the product coverage of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, under which more than 140 beneficiary developing counties and territories import products duty-free into the United States. The proclamation extends GSP benefits to approximately $900 million in imports from. . . Read More

Jul 2,2003
Coast Guard Issues New Maritime Security Rules
 The Coast Guard, which is now a part of the Department of Homeland Security, has published in the federal register of July 1 six interim rules promulgating the maritime security requirements mandated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. Apparently these rules are viewed. . . Read More

Jun 13,2003
Preshipment Inspection Becomes Mandatory To Venezuela on July 7
 It appears that Venezuela will finally implement its preshipment inspection program for all cargo being imported into that country. According to an announcement on the Venezuelan Customs’ website, this requirement will become effective on July 7. The original law was published back in. . . Read More

May 23,2003
Elite Joins Elemica Network
Elite is first U.S.-based freight forwarder to join the B2B e-commerce global network for chemicals
HOUSTON, TEXAS--May 23, 2003--Elite International Transportation Inc. (www.eliteint.com), a world-leading logistics provider that offers a complete range of services to chemical and petrochemical companies around the globe, today announced that it. . . Read More

May 14,2003
"Precautionary Principle" Distorts Imports Abroad
 Recent actions have sharply focused attention on the concept of the “precautionary principle” and its effect on international trade, especially in chemicals and food. On May 6 the National Foreign Trade Council released a report dealing with the “Growth of Trade Barriers that Ignore Sound Science”.. . . Read More

May 9,2003
Higher Freight Rates Seem Permanent
 A recent Journal of Commerce article indicates that higher ocean freight rates may be here to stay. Although it is not entirely clear whether the information provided in the article is an effort by carriers to prop up recent rate increase or if it represents an. . . Read More

May 1,2003
Elite Addresses SARS Concerns
 We have all been hearing a great deal recently about the SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) epidemic, especially its affect on countries in Asia. I have had several calls recently from customers concerned that this disease, and the problems it is causing, will somehow impact the. . . Read More

Apr 21,2003
Customs To Increase 24-Hour Rule Enforcement
 Enforcement efforts related to the 24-hour manifest rule are being increased next month. The new Customs and Border Protection (CBP) organization has indicated that beginning in May it intends to move forward with its 24-hour rule enforcement efforts. Since the full implementation of this program in. . . Read More

Apr 9,2003
A New C-TPAT Hammer From Customs?
 Could Customs be using a new, darker method to ensure the “voluntary” application of importers for the C-TPAT program? That seemed to be a distinct possibility judging by some remarks by Doug Browning, the Deputy Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). As reported by the. . . Read More

Apr 4,2003
24-Hour Rule Coming To Canada?
 According to a recent Journal of Commerce article the now famous “24-hour rule” may soon be coming to Canada. At a recent conference in Boston, Robert Bonner the head of the reconstituted Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) was responding to allegations that some carriers. . . Read More

Mar 11,2003
Customs Accelerates Export Enforcement Activities
 We recently received the following advisory from one of the steamship companies that we deal with: “We were recently advised that U. S. Customs had directed that a number of containers be returned to the United States as it had been determined that the Shippers Export. . . Read More

Mar 7,2003
More Disruptions At European Ports
 Earlier this year we informed you of disruptions in service at a number of ports in Europe. As you may remember we discussed the fact that dockworkers are apparently unhappy about the European Union's port services directive which wants to create more competition in ports and. . . Read More

Mar 4,2003
Is C-TPAT Becoming Even Less Voluntary?
 Since the inception of the Customs C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) initiative more than a year ago Customs has continually stressed the “voluntary” nature of the program. Although the pressures that Customs was threatening to bring to bear against non-members – unknown importer status, more frequent. . . Read More

Mar 3,2003
The 24Hour Rule and the Law of Unintended Consequences
 The Journal of Commerce recently carried a very interesting analysis of an unintended but very real side effect of Customs’ “24-hour rule.” Although this problem has been somewhat invisible to shippers and consignees, it has negatively affected the release time for a great deal of their. . . Read More

Mar 3,2003
Iraq Conflict Generates Shipping Concerns
 The obvious question on all shippers’ minds is what effect the present conflict in Iraq will have on the shipping industry. The most basic answer, for most shippers, is minimal. The primary concern is what is going to happen at U.S. ports. The primary concern, of. . . Read More

Feb 21,2003
Are You Ready For October 1 ?
 Most shippers are familiar with the 24-hour rule, which went into full effect on February 2. However, this is only the tip of the shipment notification process that will be going into effect by October 1 of this year. Section 343 of the Trade Act of. . . Read More

Nov 25,2002
West Coast Labor Accord Reached - Finally!
 It would appear that the long and often acrimonious negotiations for a new contract between the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union's have finally come to an end. Both the PMA and the ILWU have announced that a tentative six-year contract was. . . Read More

Feb 17,2003
West Coast Trucking Changes Coming
 An article appeared late Friday in the on-line Journal of Commerce that could portend significant changes in how freight moves at terminals on the West Coast, particularly in California. Although it dealt primarily with truckers and the changes for them it will also affect all shippers. . . Read More

Feb 14,2003
Trans_Atlantic Rate Increase Expected
 The Journal of Commerce is reporting that the Trans-Atlantic Conference Agreement (TACA) said it plans to raise tariff rates on westbound trans-Atlantic cargo by $400 per 20-foot container and $500 per 40-foot container on April 1, and by an unspecified additional amount on Oct. 1. TACA. . . Read More

Feb 10,2003
Venezuela To Implement Preshipment Inspection
 We have recently received word that all imports into Venezuela from all countries will be subject to a Preshipment Inspection (PSI) process. For those not familiar with the concept, it normally involves having a company that is approved by the government of the importing company review. . . Read More

Feb 5,2003
Argentina Implements New Wood Packing Requirements
 A new regulation went into effect in Argentina last month that affects all cargo shipped on any kind of wood packing materials. As per Argentine Resolution 19/2002 issued by the Agroalimentary Health and Quality National Service (SENASA), and effective January 21, 2003, wood used in the. . . Read More

Feb 3,2003
ETS Express Certified For AMS Transmissions For 24-Hour Rule
 On January 24, U.S. Customs officially announced that ETS Express, Elite’s NVOCC operation, was now a full participant in the Customs AMS (Automated Manifest System) program. ETS’s decision to seek and obtain AMS participation was a direct response to the 24-hour rule that Customs began strictly. . . Read More

Jan 23,2003
West Coast Contract Ratified - It's Finally Over
 The almost year-long contract dispute on the West Coast docks has come to an official end. By an overwhelming margin the International Longshore and Warehouse Union said almost 90 percent of member dockworkers voted to ratify the accord, a record for a new contract. Also, the. . . Read More

Jan 17,2003
EPA To Have Access To All Customs Import Data
 On January 15 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in what could be another case of the government stretching the bounds of privacy, announced that it had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Customs under which the two agencies will share information related to the import. . . Read More

Jan 16,2003
Port Disruptions in Europe and GSP Refund Deadline
 The Journal of Commerce is reporting that widespread work disruptions and other actions are planned by European dockworkers later this week and next week, according to the European Transport Workers' Federation. Supposedly Eduardo Chagas, secretary of the ETF's dockers' section, said the actions will range from. . . Read More

Jan 14,2003
NAFTA Countries Liberalize Some Origin Rules
 Following a decision by all three NAFTA countries, liberalized rules of origin for seven products became effective in the US and Canada on January 1. These changes will come into force in Mexico following ratification by the Mexican Senate later this year. The changes are intended. . . Read More

Jan 13,2003
Port Congestion Continues on Both Coasts
 Even as the ILWU, the West Coast union, stands poised to sign the new contract negotiated with the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA), the congestion resulting from the PMA’s ten day lockout of West Coast ports continues to clog ports on both coasts. The worst of the. . . Read More

Jan 2,2003
West Coast Issue Ending & Venezuela Strike Heating Up
 As the new year begins, we should see the official ending of the past year’s most significant event for shippers and the intensification of an event that has been smoldering for some time. The official voting by members of the ILWU begins on Jan. 6 and. . . Read More

Dec 16,2002
End of Year Details - NAFTA, TSCA, EPA, Etc.
 As a new year approaches, I want to remind everyone to make sure that you have made arrangements to either produce or obtain documents for the various government requirements on both imports and exports. First, for those companies either producing or obtaining blanket NAFTA certificates of. . . Read More

Dec 15,2002
F.A.S.T. Program Begins Today On Northern Border
 Customs is redesignating the National Customs Automation Program (NCAP) test of an account-based declaration prototype (NCAP/P) as the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) prototype. The FAST program, among other things, is designed to provide expedited Customs clearance for cargo entering the U.S. from Canada. Canada Customs. . . Read More

Dec 12,2002
Confusion Increases in Venezuela As Talks Resume
 Talks reportedly will resume today in Venezuela to discuss ways to end a general strike which has been increasing in intensity since beginning on Dec. 2. The strike was called by opponents of President Hugo Chavez to compel him to hold early elections, which would be. . . Read More

Dec 6,2002
Venezuela's Oil Exports Blocked
 Venezuela's oil exports ground to a halt after three days of the nationwide strike with few visible problems. The world's fifth-largest oil industry descended into chaos Thursday as captains anchored their tankers offshore, tugs stopped towing and dock crews stopped loading oil and natural gas. Acknowledging. . . Read More

Dec 3,2002
Labor Unrest Escalates in Venezuela
 Labor unrest in Venezuela has escalated after the government used force to break up demonstrations. The National Guard broke up an opposition protest with tear gas and rubber bullets and chased away dissident Venezuelan generals. A general strike had been called on Monday, which was only. . . Read More

Nov 19,2002
New 24 Hour Rule May Bring Shipping Tariff Changes
 Apparently a number of vessel operators, including the members of the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (TSA), are already trying to protect themselves financially in advance of Customs' enforcement of its 24 hour notification rule early next year. These lines are considering adopting tariff rules or service contract. . . Read More

Nov 18,2002
Port Security Bill Finally Passes
 After more than a year and a half of amendments, revisions and occasional acrimony Congress passed the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (S. 1214) and sent it on to the White House to be signed into law. The bill was initially designed to improve port. . . Read More

Nov 12,2002
New Brazil Customs Regulations Affect Shippers
 We have been informed that several new changes have been made to customs import regulations for imports into Brazil. Although most of these changes will only affect the actual importer in Brazil (including increasing the fines for Customs violations), a couple will also affect shippers selling. . . Read More

Nov 11,2002
West Coast Congestion Continues
 In an update on West Coast port activity, although the immediate congestion from the October lockout has dissipated, the residual effects will probably be felt through next month. The Journal of Commerce is reporting that significant congestion is plaguing ports up and down the West Coast.. . . Read More

Nov 11,2002
West Coast Contract Looks Increasingly Likely
 An official with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, who on Monday appeared before a meeting of the National Industrial Transportation League, the nation's largest shipper group, indicated that he was "cautiously optimistic" that West Coast ports will have a labor contract by the end of. . . Read More

Nov 6,2002
West Coast Update - Disagreements Within PMA
 There are now apparently serious disagreements within the ranks of PMA over the agreement on technology that was reached with the ILWU on Friday. This tentative agreement was hailed as a breakthrough in the West Coast port contract talks but now could turn into a deal-breaker. . . Read More

Nov 1,2002
Possible Settlement On West Coast
 It is being reported that waterfront employers and union longshoremen have reached a tentative agreement on a framework for the introduction of new technology for cargo handling at West Coast ports, which has been the key issue in these negotiations. Supposedly, the Pacific Maritime Association and. . . Read More

Oct 31,2002
Customs Finalizes 24 Hour Rule For Shipments to U.S.
 U.S. Customs has issued a final rule which will, among other things, require carriers to provide Customs with a vessel’s cargo manifest (declaration) 24 hours before the related cargo is laden aboard the vessel at the foreign port. Although this rule is effective as of December. . . Read More

Oct 23,2002
West Coast Ports Still Congested
 The backlog of vessels at West Coast ports grew slightly as ships that worked over the weekend were immediately replaced by one or two more vessels arriving from Asia. According to the Marine Exchange of Los Angeles-Long Beach, 64 vessels were at anchorage this morning, which. . . Read More

Oct 15,2002
Cargo Slowly Moving On West Coast
 The congestion on the West Coast docks is slowly clearing up. However, the PMA is still charging that the union, the ILWU, is working at less than peak efficiency, with estimates ranging from 10% - 20% below normal. As of 7:30 this morning Pacific time, there. . . Read More

Oct 9,2002
West Coast Ports To Reopen Tonight
 West Coast ports are scheduled to reopen Wednesday evening for the first time in 10 days, but it will take much longer for cargo to start flowing normally over the docks. U.S. District Judge William Alsup, responding to a request from President Bush, ordered the end. . . Read More

Oct 8,2002
Bush To Order Work Resumption At West Coast Ports
 The Journal of Commerce is now also reporting that President Bush will seek a court injunction to end the West Coast port lockout. The President has scheduled a 4:00 PM (EDT) conference to make the official announcement. This announcement can be seen on a web cast. . . Read More

Oct 7,2002
West Coast Ports Could Be Forced Open As Early As Tomorrow
 Having taken the first step yesterday toward invoking the Taft-Hartley Act, the President is expected to take the second and final step today. The board of inquiry, which the President established yesterday, is expected to report its findings to Bush today. The President could then immediately. . . Read More

Oct 7,2002
West Coast Lockout Enters Second Week As Talks Break Down Again
 As the lockout along the 29 West Coast ports enters its second week, more bad news has been reported. The talks between the two sides that were being held under the auspices of a federal mediator break down late Sunday. It has been reported that the. . . Read More

Oct 4,2002
Negotiations Resume But Ports Remain Closed
 Union and management negotiators met yesterday under the auspices of a federal mediator in Oakland to resume contract talks. The union has said that it would accept this non-binding mediation for the technology issue only, so we can presume that was the subject of the negotiations.. . . Read More

Oct 3,2002
Glimmer of Hope On West Coast
 In what at best can be described as a faint glimmer of hope in a very long, dark tunnel, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association agreed to meet today with a federal mediator in an attempt to resurrect negotiations on a. . . Read More

Oct 2,2002
West Coast Lockout in Third Day - No End in Sight
 The lockout affecting all ports on the U.S. West Coast continues into its third full day with no end in sight. Although there is a negotiating session scheduled today, it is highly unlikely that it will take place. After yesterday’s incident at the Federal Mediation and. . . Read More

Sep 30,2002
All West Coast Ports Shut Down Indefinitely
 The Los Angeles Times is reporting this morning that West Coast cargo ports were shut down indefinitely Sunday night after a chaotic day on the waterfront that dashed hopes for a truce between dockworkers and shipping lines, now in their fifth month of troubled contract talks.. . . Read More

Sep 25,2002
Situation Tense But Work Continues on West Coast
 The major ports all along the West Coast are reporting record peak season import volumes, with increases of 10 % - 20% common. So, even though there are presently neither slowdowns nor lockouts, cargo is backing up simply from the sheer volume. Delays should be expected. . . Read More

Sep 23,2002
Press Release - Elite Becomes Responsible Care Member
 HOUSTON—September 23, 2002—Elite International Transportation Inc. (www.eliteint.com), a world-leading logistics provider that offers a complete range of logistics services to the chemical, petrochemical, and food industries, today announced that it has been accepted as a Responsible Care® Partner by the American Chemistry Council, located in Arlington,. . . Read More

Sep 22,2002
Union Skirmishes Continue Over Weekend
 The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) is reporting continued scattered ILWU actions against other SSA facilities along the West Coast. As you may recall, it was union slowdowns against this company's facility in Long Beach that caused the PMA to call a lock out for last Friday. . . Read More

Jan 7,2002
Seaport and Cargo Security Hot News Topics
 Seaport security has suddenly become a hot topic in the news world. Last Thursday, Jan. 3, the Washington Post ran a story examining the issue of security at the nation's seaports. On Sunday night one of the major networks ran a similar story on the evening. . . Read More

Sep 20,2002
Long Beach and LA Docks Still Working
 The Journal of Commerce and other sources are reporting that a lock out by the PMA has been averted and that all docks in those areas are operating at full strength. A full contingent of union workers showed up at the 6:00 PM Thursday shift at. . . Read More

Feb 8,2002
More Exams in Importers' Future?
 Information indicates that House members will introduce a bill to federalize seaport security bfore the end of February. Reportedly, the House Transportation Committee has drafted legislation to require the nation’s 361 ports to develop comprehensive security plans and to authorize $1.1 billion over six years for. . . Read More

Sep 19,2002
LA and Long Beach Shutdown Possible Friday Morning
 The situation in Los Angeles and Long Beach could turn ugly tomorrow morning. The PMA has accused the ILWU of continuing its work actions against Stevedoring Services of America at the Port of Long Beach, refusing to provide critical labor and creating gridlock in the terminal.. . . Read More

Sep 13,2002
West Coast Update - Talks Continue With No Labor Slowdowns
 All seems relatively normal on the West Coast docks. Talks have continued on single issues, with technology being the main point of discussion. Containers continue to be cleared with no reported slowdowns by labor. Import volumes have increased significantly at West Coast ports. Long Beach has. . . Read More

Sep 12,2002
Elite Joins C-TPAT
 We know that over the past year, supply chain security has become increasingly important to our customers. To support our goal of providing you with the highest level of service, we have joined the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program, the US Customs initiative developed to. . . Read More

Sep 9,2002
West Coast Talks: Roller Coaster Ride Continues
 The roller coaster ride that has characterized the ongoing labor negotiations at West Coast ports continues. From the pessimism caused by the union's unexpected breaking off of talks on September 1 we are now on a path of guarded optimism caused by last Wednesday's agreement on. . . Read More

Sep 3,2002
Union Walks - Job Actions Possible Today
 The West Coast talks between the ILWU and the PMA took a decided turn for the worst on Sunday morning, September 1. The Union walked out of the talks before any subcommittees could meet and authorized no further contract extensions. The 24-hour contract extension signed August. . . Read More

Aug 19,2002
West Coast Talks On Hold Again
 All has been relatively quiet on the western front. The main contract negotiations have not resumed due to the sudden death of union president James Spinosa's father. They are scheduled to resume again on August 26. The union has been holding numerous rallies around the ports. . . Read More

Aug 8,2002
Trade Bill Provision to Affect Exporters
 As we reported previously, the President signed the Trade Act of 2002 into law on August 6. While the new law has been reported in most media outlets as providing the President with new authority to negotiate trade agreements, there are several provisions under the Antiterrorism. . . Read More

Aug 2,2002
Trade Bill Finally Passes; GSP To Be Reinstated
 The trade bill that has been floating around in Congress for nearly a year has finally been passed by both sides of the Congress. By a 64-34 vote, the Senate passed the conference report on the trade bill package (HR 3009) that reinstates presidential trade promotion. . . Read More

Jul 31,2002
West Coast Rumor Mill Active
 There have been rumors about a possible strike vote by the union on August 12. This may come from a report that local 63 in L. A. has called for meeting of all the membership, which are port clerks, for the evening of Aug. 12. These. . . Read More

Jul 29,2002
Trade Bill With GSP Passes House
 By a narrow 3-vote margin (215-212) and in its last action before adjourning for the August recess, the House passed a legislative package (HR 3009) in the early morning hours of July 27 that includes provisions on trade promotion authority (TPA), Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), the. . . Read More

Jul 29,2002
West Coast Strike Talks Take a Detour
 In a move that was widely seen as changing what little momentum toward settlement that had existed the International Longshore and Warehouse Union caucus empowered the union's negotiating committee to go directly to the union membership to seek strike authorization. This move, coupled with the union’s. . . Read More

Jul 12,2002
Customs Would Shrink In New Department
 The House Ways and Means Committee passed by a 34-3 vote an amended version of a bill (HR 5005) that would create a new Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The amended bill would establish a new, smaller US Customs Service as a distinct entity within the. . . Read More

Jul 8,2002
West Coast Strike - July Looks Safe
 Negotiations for a new West Coast waterfront continued on Wednesday, July 3, although neither the International Longshore and Warehouse Union nor the Pacific Maritime Association anticipate a quick settlement. Both parties agreed to take the long July 4 weekend off and will return to the bargaining. . . Read More

Jul 2,2002
West Coast Strike Averted - For Now
 Waterfront employers and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union resumed negotiations at 3 p.m. Monday just hours before the current three-year contract at West Coast ports expired. The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) reported that the ILWU passed a revised proposal across the table to them and. . . Read More

Jul 1,2002
West Coast Update - Union Rejects PMA’s Proposal
 In an effort to continue the momentum from late in the week both sides met in a Saturday session. The talks did not get underway until 5:50 p.m. at the ILWU headquarters. PMA passed a number of documents across the table including a new proposal. A. . . Read More

Jun 28,2002
West Coast Update - A Glimmer of Hope
 After six weeks of apparently fruitless negotiations, contract talks between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association appeared to be back on track Thursday. And, for the first time since talks on a new three-year contract began May 13, the controversial issue. . . Read More

Jun 27,2002
West Coast Strike getting Closer
 The International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association engaged in sharp criticism of each other Wednesday, further dimming the already faint hopes that they will reach agreement on a new contract before the current deal expires on July 1. Both parties conceded that. . . Read More

Jun 26,2002
Talks Intensify As West Coast Deadline Approaches
 Talks have been more frequent and lengthy lately. The PMA has reported that a full day of talks took place today, June 26, and the same thing is scheduled for tomorrow. Unfortunately, there has still been little or no movement on any of the issues by. . . Read More

Jun 21,2002
Silence in San Francisco - West Coast Update
 There is still no news to report. There have been some meetings the past couple days, but on a low level. There were meetings on both Thursday and Friday, but no official word has come from either side. PMA has tabled the benefits offer made last. . . Read More

Jun 20,2002
Customs Issues in the News
 European Ports Express Concern About Container Security Initiative--A June 14 article in the Financial Times reports that there is increasing concern among European container port operators that the US Container Security Initiative (CSI), which is one of U.S. Customs' key, post 9/11 initiatives, will hamper trade. . . Read More

Jun 14,2002
West Coast Labor Talks Slow
 Nervousness among major shipping groups is increasing as progress in the West Coast labor negotiations appears to be minimal at best. Earlier this week a group of major trans-Pacific shippers organized as the West Coast Waterfront Coalition bemoaned the lack of progress in fashioning a new. . . Read More

Jun 11,2002
Nervousness among major shipping groups is increasing as progress in the West Coast labor negotiatio
 The article below appeared in the Journal Of Commerce today. It does not present a very optimistic view regarding a quick and timely settlement. The fact that major shippers seem to be siding with the PMA on taking a hard line against the ILWU indicate that. . . Read More

Jun 5,2002
Customs To Inspect U.S. Bound Containers in Singapore
 Singapore has agreed to become the first overseas port to permit U.S. Customs inspectors to be stationed there to work with Singaporean authorities to screen U.S.-bound containers before they're shipped. Customs has been working toward such agreements with other countries on its Container Security Initiative, part. . . Read More

May 28,2002
West Coast Strike - Further Info
 There seems to be "guarded optimism" that the contract issues can be resolved without action on either side. Some of the specific areas of contention are: a) port congestion(no appt. for truckers, old clerical work rules, date being re-keyed),etc. b) terminal security(no uniform ID cards-labor wants. . . Read More

May 23,2002
Update on West Coast Labor Talks
 Labor talks between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association began on May 13 in San Francisco and, so far, neither side is saying very much. Importers particularily are on edge as they plan for a potential labor-related interruption that some speculate. . . Read More

May 23,2002
Export Agency Schedules Annual Update
 The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), which until very recently was the BXA, has announced the dates for its annual update conference. It will hold its fifteenth Annual Update Conference on Export Controls and Policy on October 10-11, 2002, in Washington, DC. The conference is. . . Read More

May 10,2002
Trade Bill Clears Hurdle in Senate
 The Senate on Thursday cleared the way for approval of trade promotion authority that will enable President Bush to negotiate trade pacts without having Congress change them later on. Senate and White House negotiators ended an impasse that blocked action on TPA, formerly called fast track,. . . Read More

May 3,2002
Trade Legislation Advances in Senate
 The US Senate voted 77-21 to proceed with the consideration of legislation to extend and enhance the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) (HR 3009), paving the way for the introduction of amendments. The pending bill would add currently excluded products, such as textiles, apparel, and tuna,. . . Read More

Apr 22,2002
West Coast Labor Activities Heat Up
 It appears that the skirmishes are beginning in the West Coast dockworkers contract talks. A U.S. District Court in Los Angeles last week confirmed an arbitrator's ruling that dockworkers and clerks in the International Longshore and Warehouse Union must report to their work positions at the. . . Read More

Apr 15,2002
Venezuela Labor Situation Still Uncertain As Chavez Returns To Power
 With the return of Hugo Chavez to the presidency of Venezuela on Sunday, the situation in that country has taken another strange twist. It is uncertain exactly how this will affect the general strike that was called last week. However, the strike began as a protest. . . Read More

Apr 12,2002
Venezuela in Turmoil
 Hugo Chavez, the president of Venezuela, resigned shortly after midnight on Friday morning. It was his policies that had precipitated the general strike that began on Tuesday. This strike was originally set to last only 24 hours. It was then lengthened to 48 hours and then. . . Read More

Apr 8,2002
Canadian Customs Delays AMPS Implemenation Date
 The Canadian Customs and Revenue Authority (CCRA) has delayed the implementation of the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS). AMPS is a civil penalty regime established to ensure compliance with customs legislation. When fully implemented, AMPS will apply to violations of Canada’s Customs Act, Customs Tariff, and. . . Read More

Apr 5,2002
Bush Pushes Senate on Trade Bills
 Speaking at the US Department of State, President George W. Bush asked the Senate to vote by April 22 on two pieces of trade legislation. The two bills, trade promotion authority (TPA) (HR 3005) and Andean Trade Preferences Act (ATPA) renewal and expansion (HR 3009), are. . . Read More

Apr 2,2002
Russia to End US Poultry Import Ban by April 10
 On March 31, 2002, Russia agreed to lift its ban on US poultry products. The US ambassador in Moscow, Alexander Vershbow, announced on Sunday that he and Russia’s chief veterinary inspector, Mikhail Kravchuk, had signed a protocol that contained a “clear commitment” by Russia to end. . . Read More

Mar 31,2002
Bush Team Proposes Combining Customs & INS
 President Bush on Tuesday was urged by advisors to ask Congress to merge the Customs Service and the Immigration and Naturalization Service, which includes the Border Patrol. The new agency would be under the control of the Justice Department. The INS and Border Patrol are presently. . . Read More

Mar 20,2002
Port Security Bill Filed in House
 Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska, filed the Maritime Transportation Antiterrorism Act of 2002 (HR 3983) Monday afternoon. The subcommittee on Coast Guard and maritime affairs intends to mark up the bill on Wednesday morning. The new bill orders the Transportation Security Administration, not the Customs Service, to. . . Read More

Mar 5,2002
Who Will Be In Charge of Container Security?
 The House Transportation Committee is circulating a "discussion draft" bill that would represent the counterpart to S.1214, the Senate port security bill. For the trade community the most troubling difference between the two bills is a provision in the House version that gives the Under Secretary. . . Read More

Mar 4,2002
House Begins Discussion of Export Administration Act Renewal
 On February 28, the House Armed Services Committee convened to consider the Export Administration Act (EAA) of 2001 (HR 2581), which would reauthorize the 1979 EAA. The EAA establishes government regulation of the export of sensitive “dual-use” technologies, which have both commercial and military applications. The. . . Read More

Feb 26,2002
BXA Field Office Proposed for Houston
 An item in the 2003 budget for the Bureau of Export Administration - BXA - calls for the establishment of two field offices. These offices would be located in Houston and Seattle. These local offices provide many of the same services that exporters currently must find. . . Read More

Feb 18,2002
Andean Trade Preference Renewed Temporarily
 In an extraordinary action, the Bush administration has invoked national security concerns to reauthorize duty-free entry under the Andean Trade Preference Act - ATPA. Through this action, which was effective February 15, importers have the option of deferring duty payment on the affected goods until May. . . Read More

Feb 7,2002
GSP and Other Trade Bills Stalled
 Renewal of the Generalized System of Preferences - GSP - seems no closer to passage than it did in September when it expired or in October when H.R. 3010, a bill to renew the program, was introduced. The issue was raised again yesterday during Senate hearings. . . Read More

Jan 30,2002
Customs Posts Initial Cargo Security Guidelines
 Customs has prepared guidelines on its Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) initiative, a cooperative arrangement between Customs and the trade community to strengthen the overall supply chain and border security. Customs acknowledges that it cannot provide the highest level of security by itself and is asking. . . Read More

Jan 28,2002
State Department Imposes Nonproliferation Penalties
 The US Department of State announced the imposition of penalties on two Chinese firms, Liyang Chemical Equipment and China Machinery and Electric Equipment Import and Export Company. This action is a result of the January 11 determination that the entities have transferred sensitive equipment and technology. . . Read More

Dec 26,2001
No GSP or Andean Renewal Yet
 Congress adjourned last week, leaving numerous issues unresolved. Among those are the renewal of the GSP program as well as the Andean Trade Preference Act. Congress is not scheduled to return until January 23 and neither of these issues are at the top of any Congressional. . . Read More

Jan 24,2002
Trade Issues Among Congressional Workload
 Trade issues are among the top issues to face the Congress as it returned from its long vacation yesterday. Among the most pressing are Trade Promotion Authority (the former Fast Track Authority) - TPA - and the renewal of both the GSP (Generalized System of Preferences). . . Read More

Jan 23,2002
U.S and Canada To Station Customs Inspectors At Each Other's Seaports
 The United States and Canada have announced an agreement to place Customs inspectors at ports in each other's country. As part of the "Smart Border" plan between the two countries U.S. Customs officers will be placed at the ports of Halifax and Vancouver and Canadian Customs. . . Read More

Jan 22,2002
WTO Rules Against U.S. in Tax Issue
 The WTO ruled on Jan. 14 that the U.S. Extraterritorial Income Exclusion Act (ETI) was illegal under international trade rules. This act provides certain tax benefits to U.S. companies that operate overseas. The WTO ruled that this act, like its predecessor the Foreign Sales Corporation (FSC). . . Read More

Jan 14,2002
THC Now Part Of China Freight Rates
 As part of its entry into the WTO freight rates now quoted for cargo leaving China will include a separate charge for THC (terminal handling charge). Previously these charges were included in the freight rate, without being broken out. These charges could range from RMB 370. . . Read More

Dec 21,2001
Senate Finally Passes Port Security Bill
 After long and intense negotiations the Port and Maritime Security Act of 2001(S.1214) quietly passed the Senate Thursday afternoon by unanimous consent. The final version of the bill calls for port security assessments and local security committees headed by the Coast Guard captain of the port.. . . Read More

Dec 11,2001
Another New Port Security Bill
 On Dec. 6, Rep. Clay Shaw, R-Fla., filed a new Port and Maritime Security Act of 2001 (H.R. 3437). While it is similar to Senate bill 1214 sponsored by Sen. Ernest Hollings, D-S.C., there are significant differences. Both call for port vulnerability assessments, establishment of port. . . Read More

Dec 7,2001
Trade Promotion Authority Passes House, Moves to Senate
 In an obvious sign of the divisiveness of the issue the House of Representatives approved legislation Thursday giving President Bush Trade Promotion Authority to negotiate global trade agreements by only one vote. The vote on Trade Promotion Authority came after some presidential involvement, including written pledge. . . Read More

Dec 6,2001
Senate Port Security Bill Still Evolving
 The Senate continues its efforts to develop a port security bill. The latest development combines the Port, Maritime and Railroad Security Act (S.1214) and the Port Threat and Security Act (S.1587). The new draft makes some changes to S. 1214, by removing a provision stating that. . . Read More

Dec 6,2001
Senate Port Security Bill Still Evolving
 The Senate continues its efforts to develop a port security bill. The latest development combines the Port, Maritime and Railroad Security Act (S.1214) and the Port Threat and Security Act (S.1587). The new draft makes some changes to S. 1214, by removing a provision stating that. . . Read More

Nov 29,2001
Supply Chain Security - Customs' New Focus
 The focus of the Customs Symposium on Nov. 27 was supply chain security. This appears to be the area Customs, and by extension importers, will be concentrating on for the immediate future. This concept involves being able to assure yourself and Customs that your cargo is. . . Read More

Nov 19,2001
Customs Facilitation and Reform to be Included in New WTO Talks
 The recently completed meeting of the World Trade Organization (WTO) resulted in an agreement to hold a new round of trade liberalization discussions. Although these discussions will not begin for at least two years, just agreeing to discussions is seen as a major victory for trading. . . Read More

Nov 15,2001
In-Bond Provision of Port Security Bill Fixed
 Senate negotiators have made a significant change to the in-bond reporting provisions of the Port, Maritime and Rail Security of 2001 (SB 1214). The original provision, which would have caused a severe reduction in in-bond use, required all entry information to be furnished at the port. . . Read More

Nov 12,2001
GSP Extension Included in Senate Economic Stimulus Plan
 The Senate Finance Committee has marked up economic stimulus legislation that is substantially different from the House-passed Ways and Means bill. The Senate bill has greater focus on blue-collar unemployment and other post-9/11 relief. And, it has several trade provisions. Included in the Senate bill are. . . Read More

Nov 5,2001
Terrorist in the Box
 The following is provided to emphasize the dimension of the seccurity threats faced by the shipping industry. The United States Coast Guard issued an alert for U.S. ports and carriers after Italian authorities arrested a man they described as a suspected terrorist traveling in a container. . . Read More

Oct 29,2001
Canada Customs to Expedite Clearance of Imports from U.S.
 A law became effective in Canada on October 25 that will allow Canadian Customs to expedite and pre-clear low-risk goods from the U.S. The program, which will be phased in beginning Dec. 3, involves Canada Customs pre-approving truck drivers, carriers and the shipper and cargo. This. . . Read More

Oct 26,2001
Customs Switches Priority From Drugs to Terrorism
 The new Commissioner of the United States Customs Service, Robert Bonner, said that terrorism has replaced drug smuggling as the agency's top priority, and that he has redeployed hundreds of agents to provide round-the-clock inspections at the Canadian border to prevent terrorists from entering the country.. . . Read More

Oct 23,2001
Export Administration Gets Another Life Line
 President Bush has used his executive authority to extend the Export Administration Act, the legal basis for the Bureau of Export Administration's authority. The Act itself expired in 1994 and has been extended periodically by presidentional or congressional actions since then. Bills are presently in both. . . Read More

Oct 22,2001
GSP Reported From House Committee But Future Uncertain
 Generalized System of Preferences legislation was reported out last Friday, Oct. 12, by the House Ways and Means Committee. The bill, HR 3010, would extend GSP until December 31, 2002, as well as provide duty-free treatment for items imported after September 30 that would have qualified. . . Read More

Oct 14,2001
Compliance Assessments Out, Focused Assessments In at Customs
 U.S. Customs has announced that, as of Oct. 1 Compliance Assessments will be replaced with Focused Assessments (FA). The FA is supposed to look at the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls, in areas of importance to Customs, rather than randomly selected transactions. Their theory is. . . Read More

Aug 14,2001
Compliance Assessments Out, Focused Assessments In at Customs
 U.S. Customs has announced that, as of Oct. 1 Compliance Assessments will be replaced with Focused Assessments (FA). The FA is supposed to look at the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls, in areas of importance to Customs, rather than randomly selected transactions. Their theory is. . . Read More

Oct 11,2001
Vietnam Trade Normalization Passed
 On Oct. 4 the Senate passed legislation, previously approved by the House, which authorized normalization of trade relations with Vietnam. The legislation granted approval for implementing the trade agreement signed last year between the U.S. and Vietnam. This allows goods from Vietnam to receive the MFN. . . Read More

Oct 3,2001
Changes in Export Regs on Chemical & Biological Items
 On September 28, 2001, the Bureau of Export Administration (BXA) published in the Federal Register a rule entitled Revisions and Clarifications to the EAR -- Chemical and Biological Weapons Controls: Australia Group; Chemical Weapons Convention. This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by implementing the. . . Read More

Sep 28,2001
Export Sanctions to India and Pakistan Lifted
 On September 22 President Bush waived the sanctions that apply to dual use items controlled for nuclear and missile reasons that were placed on India and Pakistan after the 1998 nuclear tests. The waiver permits the lifting of the denial policy currently in place in the. . . Read More

Sep 24,2001
HMF Export Refund Application Deadline Nears
 As a result of a court decision last December in the Swisher case U.S. Customs must refund Harbor Fees on exports going back to their imposition in April of 1987. The Court did allow Customs to set a deadline for filing for the refund, though, and. . . Read More

Sep 21,2001
GSP Set To Expire on Sept. 30
 As expected, the GSP program has not yet been renewed and there are no prospects of this occurring before its expiration on Sept. 30. Again, the program is expected to be renewed around the end of the year, and made retroactive, with refunds. However, other duty. . . Read More

Sep 21,2001
Latest on EU Wood Packing Rules
 This is just a reminder that the new rules regarding wood packing on shipments to the EU take affect for goods exported on or after Oct. 1. A recent change in procedures now allows fumigation and includes specific markings to indicate that fumigation was done. For. . . Read More

Sep 19,2001
Elite Scores Logistics Coup in China
 Elite's Shanghai office announces the establishment of Elite Logistics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. The company is one of only a select few international freight forwarders that are allowed to bill their customers in both the Chinese currency, the RMB, and U.S. $. The practical effect of this. . . Read More

Sep 17,2001
Final Update on Seaports, Etc.
 All seaports are open and running, generally at or just below their levels prior to last week's tragedy. The one big exception is the port of New York/New Jersey, which is still struggling. Information about vessel arrivals, and the status of containers at some terminals around. . . Read More

Sep 13,2001
Latest on Seaports, Airports, Etc.
 As of this morning New York/New Jersey port was the only port that was still closed. It has now been opened on a "selective" basis. Ships will slowly be arriving and departing, but not yet at a full and open schedule. It is doubtful that they. . . Read More

Sep 12,2001
Status of U.S. Seaports
 In the wake of yesterday's incomprehensible tragedies, major U.S. seaports are reviewing their operations. As of this morning, all terminals in the port of New York/New Jersey are closed for the day. Also, the port of Los Angeles will be closed today, 9/12. The port of. . . Read More

Sep 7,2001
Export Administration Renewal Progressing
 The Senate passed the Export Administration Act today, a significant step in permanently renewing the agency's authority. The next step is for the House to pass its version. It has been passed in committee and now must be considered by the full House. The Senate version,. . . Read More

Sep 5,2001
GSP Renewal Update
 It appears virtually certain that the GSP program will expire on Sept. 30 without being renewed. Barring any last minute surprises, it now looks like the earliest we can expect a renewal bill to be passed would be toward the end of this year. While it. . . Read More

Aug 28,2001
India Granted Additional GSP Benefits
 In a Federal Register Notice the office of the USTR announced that additional benefits under the GSP program would be granted to India, effective Aug. 22. Basically, the action restores duty free treatment to certain specified items from India. These items include 2 chemical provisions, 3920.63.20. . . Read More

Aug 23,2001
Effort to Repeal Harbor Fee
 Rep. Robert Borski has introduced a bill again this year (H.R. 2737) to repeal the Harbor Maintainence Fee on imports. This bill would have the cost of harbor dredging taken from general revenues. As of now only importers are paying this fee, since the Supreme Court. . . Read More

Aug 13,2001
BXA Annual Update Now Scheduled Oct. 4-5
 The Bureau of Export Administration has just announced that its annual update conference will now be held on Oct. 4 - 5 in Washington, DC. This conference is normally held in July but was postponed this year, apparently for budgetary reasons (the government's fiscal year begins. . . Read More

Aug 2,2001
EU Wood Packing - A Reminder
 This is just a reminder that the deadline for making sure your coniferous wood packing meets the new EU requirements is fast approaching. Anything that leaves the U.S. for the EU on or after Oct. 1, must comply with the new regulations. Please access the web. . . Read More

Jul 30,2001
Possible East Bound Rate Increase In N. Atlantic
 The 15 member Trans Atlantic Conference Agreement(TACA) is proposing a general rate increase effective Sept. 1. The rates would go up by $120. for 20's, $150. for 40's and $300. for reefers, from Atlantic and Gulf ports. Rates from Pacific ports would increase by $240. for. . . Read More

Jun 19,2001
Limited Exports to Cuba, Iran, Libya and Sudan
 As a result of the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act (TSRA) limited export of certain commodites are now allowed to Cuba, Iran, Libya and Sudan. Exports to Cuba, which fall under BXA' s jurisdiction, are limited strictly to agricultural products meeting certain conditions. Exports. . . Read More
Copyright© 2003 Elite Group Inc., All Rights Reserved. Site Map