American Shipper reports that Ford Motor Company is off the hook for more than $5 million in duties and penalties after the Court of International Trade (CIT) ruled that the statute of limitations for paying the fine had expired, a decision that international trade lawyers familiar with the case stated could have implications for hundreds of other importers. (See ITT's Online Archives or 03/13/06, 06031325 for BP summary of CIT decision)(American Shipper, March 2006)
The Consumer Product Safety Commission staff (CPSC) has developed a draft plan entitled International Consumer Product Safety Program Plan - China (draft plan) to improve the safety of the following consumer products imported from China and Hong Kong (China): clothing, textiles, and toys; hazardous products such as cigarette and multipurpose lighters; home appliances; hazardous chemical consumer products; and bicycle helmets.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to determine the risks of injury associated with the mechanical malfunction of cigarette lighters. The CPSC is soliciting comments on certain regulatory alternatives and other possible ways to address these risks and the economic impacts of such alternatives.
The Journal of Commerce Online reports that the World Trade Organization (WTO) Heads of Delegations will meet on August 3, 2004 on the January 1, 2005 elimination of textile and apparel quotas imposed on WTO member countries. The article notes that only 17 countries have been invited to this meeting -including the U.S., European Union, China and India - but that other countries want to attend. (JoC Online, dated 07/27/04, www.joc.com )
The Journal of Commerce (JoC) reports that ocean carriers are strongly opposed to a security fee of $1 per foot of vessel length proposed by the South Carolina State Ports Authority. According to JoC, the charge will take effect in July and is expected to bring in $1 million to cover increased security costs. (JoC Pub 03/15 - 21/04, www.joc.com)