AMS Announces Approval of Industry Raspberry Order & Tax
The Agricultural Marketing Service announces that industry producers and importers voted to approve a national research and promotion program for processed raspberries1, including an assessment (tax) on imported and domestic processed raspberries.
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Order Supported by 88% of Voters
In the referendum, 88% of those voting favored implementation of the Processed Raspberry Promotion, Research and Information Order. Because the program received a majority of the votes, the referendum passes, and an order will be established.
Assessment Will Be One Cent per Pound for Importers, Producers
Though the final order must still be published in the Federal Register, AMS states that the program will be funded by a mandatory assessment of one cent per pound of raspberries paid by producers and importers who meet or exceed 20,000 pounds per year.
Small Volumes & Organic Processed Red Raspberries Exempt
Producers and importers of less than 20,000 pounds per year of raspberries will be exempt. AMS sources have stated that organic red raspberries for processing and organic processed red raspberries would be exempt, as organic products are generally excluded from such order assessments.
Fee on Imports to be Collected at Time of Entry
The fee on imports of processed red raspberries will be collected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and paid at the time of entry or withdrawal for consumption in the U.S. However, if CBP did not collect the fee from an importer, the importer will be responsible for paying it directly to the Council.
Council Nominations to Begin When Order Becomes Effective
The new program will be administered, under AMS supervision, by a 13-member council and its alternates. AMS will begin the nomination process once the order becomes effective.
1AMS sources previously stated that the assessment applies to imported processed red raspberries identified by Harmonized Tariff Schedule number 0811.20.2025 and any of the following HTS numbers which took effect July 1, 2010: red raspberry juice and juice concentrate under 2009.80.60.55; processed red raspberry pastes and purees under 2007.99.65.10; and red raspberry preserves under 2008.99.20.20.
(See ITT’s Online Archives or 02/08/10 news, 10020840, for BP summary of AMS’ proposed rule, announced referendum, and final rule establishing referendum procedures.
See ITT’s Online Archives or 05/06/11 news, 11050624, for BP summary of AMS’ announcement of the referendum vote.)
(Press release dated 07/08/11)