Individuals Can Be Debarred Too Most know that companies that violate the export regulations can be fined, penalized and lose their right to export. But did you know that not only companies, but individuals can also be held to that same standard? And that some of these individuals are located right here in the United…
When it comes to importing, accuracy in your import entry is not only important, but also essential. One of the most critical components of this process is the proper classification of goods under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). At first glance, this might seem like a simple task. Depending on the product, it can be—but…
It has been a crazy and volatile year when it comes to import tariffs. From the tariffs threats to the implementation to the pauses on certain tariffs, you never know what you are going to wake up to from one day to the next. Last week was no different. On May 28, the US Court…
A Noteworthy Conference with Strong Messages There has been a lot of chatter regarding the recent Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) annual Update Conference on Export Controls and Policy, which took place recently in March. This year’s conference was particularly noteworthy as it marked the first time Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick addressed export controls…
Background: Why These Changes Matter Recently(ish), space-related changes have been made—and are still in the process—to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), with regards to categories IV and XV and classification 9A, C, D and E515 in the EAR. Remember the initial idea of change (Advanced Notice of Proposed…
By now, we have all seen the updates to the Boycott Requester List from the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), with the most recent update on April 3, 2025. This blog aims to address the fundamental question: What exactly is this list, and more critically, what are the implications if an…
Facing new 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports? You can reduce these costs using HTS Chapter 98. This provision offers a significant duty-saving opportunity for companies that assemble products abroad using US components. By leveraging specific headings within Chapter 98, you can avoid paying extra tariffs on the value of those American-made parts. Heading…
As the global trade landscape continues to evolve, U.S. trade policies remain a central focus, particularly in relation to steel and aluminum imports. On March 12, 2025, President Donald Trump’s administration is set to implement significant expansions to the Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum—an action that promises to further shape the future of…
Tariffs, a tax on imports, have historically been used to support domestic industries and are primarily imposed for two reasons: to protect domestic industries by raising the cost of imported goods, and/or to generate revenue for the government. However, they can often also result in reduced trade, higher prices, and retaliation. A tariff is a…
In all the years of my career, I don’t think I have seen so many articles or news stories on tariffs as I have since Donald Trump won the election in November. Everyone is trying to speculate on what he is going to do and if he will follow through with his promises on increasing…