Customs & Logistics News
Recent Editions
U.S.
September 01, 2016
Investigation of Claims of Evasion of Antidumping and Countervailing Duties
As published in the Federal Register on August 22, and part of the Enforce and Protect Act, U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) is now required to open an investigation of antidumping or countervailing when there is “reasonable suspicion”. Interested parties can submit allegations through CBP’s new e-Allegation system https://eallegations.cbp.gov/Home/Index2). CBP detail for the Enforce and Protect Act is available at: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/trade-enforcement/tftea/enforce-and-protect-act-eapa
Canada – U.S. Softwood Lumber Trade Talks
As reported in the Globe and Mail, Canada’s chief negotiator in softwood lumber talks with the United States says the two sides remain far apart on several key issues, with negotiations at an intensive pace and engagement reaching the highest levels between the countries. Full article as in the Globe and Mail is available at: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/canada-us-disagree-on-softwood-lumber-issues-as-deadline-approaches/article31462238/
Hapag-Lloyd to Merge with United Arab Shipping Company (UASC)
The merger between Hapag-Lloyd and United Arab Shipping Company will form the fifth largest shipping line in the world. This deal will provide access to larger vessels that will result in lower transportation costs per container as well as afford a capacity of roughly 1.6 million TEUs. The merger will increase Hapag-Lloyd’s global market share to 7% which will increase its lead between weaker competitors. Additional details: http://www.joc.com/maritime-news/container-lines/hapag-lloyd/hapag-lloyd-shareholders-approve-uasc-merger_20160826.html
Trucking Capacity Could be Cut by Proposed Government Regulations
A proposal by federal regulators would order speed limiting installations on trucks during factory assembly. If put in place, capacity will be affected due to the amount of time drivers will be required to be off the road. This will largely affect smaller trucking companies and owner-operators as there will be a necessity to implement team-driving and other strategies to efficiently transport goods while abiding by the new regulations. Additional details are available at: http://www.joc.com/regulation-policy/transportation-regulations/us-transportation-regulations/us-proposal-limit-truck-speeds-would-cut-capacity_20160826.html
Canada
September 01, 2016
Undervaluation of Goods Can Lead to Criminal Charges and Conviction in Canada
Importers of goods into Canada should be aware the undervaluation on their Customs entry can lead to criminal charges and monetary penalties. A recent Canada-U.S. Blog that highlights this issue is available at: http://www.canada-usblog.com/2016/08/19/undervaluation-of-goods-can-lead-to-criminal-charges-and-conviction-in-canada/