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Here are some of the top supply chain news stories happening right now. As of April 2024, the Consortia Block Exemption Regulation (CBER) will be discontinued. Earlier this month, the European Commission announced that it would not be renewing the exemption, which was introduced in 2009. The CBER allowed shipping companies to coordinate vessel-sharing agreements…

Introduction  Navigating the complex landscape of international trade requires a keen understanding of compliance, particularly with regulations set forth by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). While there are no specific federal case law citations directly addressing CBP compliance pitfalls, the legal landscape is fraught with examples of companies facing severe penalties for non-compliance.…

The Strategic Advantage of Binding Rulings  In the intricate world of international trade, obtaining a binding ruling from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can be a game-changer. A binding ruling provides legal certainty on how a product will be classified, valued, or originated, thereby eliminating the risk of unexpected duties or compliance issues.…

The Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) is a cornerstone of modern trade facilitation in the United States, serving as the primary system through which the trade community reports imports and exports. Developed by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), ACE streamlines the process of submitting trade-related documentation and ensures compliance with various federal regulations. Its…

Introduction  In the intricate landscape of international trade, one area that often poses challenges for businesses is the management of multi-seller consolidated shipments. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has stringent requirements for the documentation and reporting of such shipments, particularly concerning commercial invoices and bills of lading. This article aims to elucidate the…

The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) serves as the legal backbone for the operations of various federal agencies in the United States, including the Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is a codification of the general and permanent rules and regulations published in the Federal Register by the executive departments and agencies. The CFR is…

Introduction  Valuation is a cornerstone of international trade, serving as the basis for determining duty rates and ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. Accurate valuation is not just a legal requirement but a critical component of a successful trade operation. This article aims to demystify the concept of valuation as it…