Now in Effect: The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Region Alert
U.S. President Joe Biden signed the Uygur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) in 2021. This act excludes certain goods from being imported into the US depending on the country of origin where they were produced. This act will bring significant changes for U.S. Importers.
Deployed in March 2023 by the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), the UFLPA strengthens the ban on imported goods produced under forced labor. Under this act, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can issue a Withhold Release Order (WRO) if there is any suspicion of forced labor. From there, importers can either re-export detained shipments or submit information showing that the goods are not violating regulations for admissible entry.
According to CBP, the UFLPA “establishes a rebuttable presumption that the importation of any goods, wares, articles, and merchandise mined, produced, or manufactured wholly or in part in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China, or produced by certain entities, is prohibited by Section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930 and that such goods, wares, articles, and merchandise are not entitled to entry to the United States.”
Shipments from China require that the manufacturer is reported at the time of direct shipment. It is now even more critical than ever for importers to know their suppliers and work alongside customs brokers to help ensure compliance. They should also be proactive in monitoring supplier relationships and labor conditions.
Changes for Importers
Importers should consider:
Importer Best Practices
Stay Informed
Global trade is constantly changing. Stay up to date with current regulations and laws. Ultimately, it is the importer’s responsibility to ensure compliance as they will be held liable for any inaccuracies or non-compliance issues.
Accurate Documentation
Help the process move along with accurate documentation. This helps CBP easily analyze the origin and admissibility of products. Maintaining detailed records of your supply chain saves time in the event CBP detains your goods. This documentation can also help identify any illicit labor practices that could result in delays or penalties.
Professional Assistance
Trade professionals like Strix have the knowledge and experience to navigate the complex world of international trade, quickly identify issues and help ensure compliance.
Innovative software as a service (Saas) provider offering state-of-the-art self-filing software for easily completing your customs responsibilities.
Full-service Customs House Broker and Certified ACE vendor for all entry forms and customs compliancy documentation. Guide importers to succeed in the global marketplace through nationwide customs clearance, importer security filing, and classification services.
Guide companies and individuals for fast and seamless clearance of goods entering the US. Customer service centric, technology-focused, and ready to help customers pass their goods to the US.
Place your shipping containers, freight, and valuable cargo in good hands with Strix. Whether you decide to file using leading technology or partner with a customs house broker to do the entry forms for you, we take your possessions seriously.
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