Import Update, Corvid19 Virus Impact

March 30, 2020

COVID19 Virus Impact Update

• The U.S. FDA has issued special FDA regulatory guidelines covering the import of certain medical devices that are needed for the fight against the COVID19 virus. The latest FDA update can be found at the following - https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-2836f88?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2?utm_source=csms.cbp.gov&utm_medium=csms.cbp.gov&utm_term=undefined&utm_content=undefined&utm_campaign=(not%20set)&gclid=undefined&dclid=undefined&GAID=1278996374.1567630590

• The additional duties on a number of medically necessary items have been suspended at the current time. If you import medically necessary products please contact our office for further information.

• China factories are reporting that while their production capabilities are now at 80% or better in many cases the demand for products has dropped significantly leading to worker reductions. Importers are encouraged to contact their suppliers to see if any pricing reductions might be available.

• Ocean carriers are still reporting significant reductions in container volumes many seeing 40% or more in year over year decline.

• While most ports and airports are working at close to normal staffing there have been reductions in staff hours meaning longer delays at ports, airports, warehouses and rail hubs.

Importers Encouraged to Review Their Imported Products to Determine if Any May Be Eligible for Duty Refunds

• The USTR continues to report new China duty exclusions and more products are now eligible for these exclusions. Importers of excluded products may obtain refunds of duty paid on previous imports but MUST ACT QUICKLY as some refunds can become time-barred. Contact our office for assistance with this process. We’ve helped our clients recover millions of dollars in previously paid duties in the past few months.

Please contact us for further information or questions – info@tradelogicintl.com.