The International Trade Administration has initiated an antidumping duty investigation to determine whether imports of aluminum extrusions from China are being, or are likely to be, sold in the U.S. at less than fair value; and a countervailing duty investigation to determine whether manufacturers, producers, or exporters of aluminum extrusions in China receive countervailable subsidies.
Harmonized Tariff Schedule
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) is a reference manual that provides duty rates for almost every item that exists. It is a system of classifying and taxing all goods imported into the United States. The HTS is based on the international Harmonized System, which is a global standard for naming and describing trade products, and consists of a hierarchical structure that assigns a specific code and rate to each type of merchandise for duty, quota, and statistical purposes. The HTS was made effective on January 1, 1989, replacing the former Tariff Schedules of the United States. It is maintained by the U.S. International Trade Commission, but the Customs and Border Protection of the Department of Homeland Security is responsible for interpreting and enforcing the HTS.
1. Brazil Resolution Formally Delays Cotton Dispute Duties Until June 21, 2010
1. Updated Interest Rates for Additional Duties on Reconciliations
On February 1, 2010, the President submitted his fiscal year 2011 budget request (October 1, 2010 through September 30, 2011) to Congress. The FY 2011 budget request for the State Department is $16.4 billion, an increase of $819 million over what was enacted in FY 2010.
"Daily Update on Capitol Hill Trade Actions" is a daily International Trade Today compilation of the most relevant legislation, hearings, and actions by Congress involving international trade. The following are brief summaries of recent Capitol Hill actions:
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has rescheduled its vote on the draft proposed rule on component testing and the draft proposed "15 Month" rule on testing and labeling for product certification from April 21 until April 28, 2010. (CPSC calendar, updated 04/19/10, available at http://www.cpsc.gov/calendar.html)
During the annual conference of the National Association of Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America on April 12-14, 2010, Consumer Product Safety Commission officials briefed the trade on various issues, including the agency’s plans to start issuing its own import detention notices, better match its product codes to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, etc.
The “earmark and limited tariff benefit” issue is still having a negative impact on prospects for quick enactment of an omnibus Miscellaneous Trade Bill. The House Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees are continuing efforts to resolve the issue and move forward on an MTB.
The International Trade Commission has instituted an investigation and requests comments on proposed Harmonized Tariff Schedule amendments to modify the classification of certain footwear in Chapter 64, in order to take into account various World Customs Organization decisions.
On February 1, 2010, the President submitted his fiscal year 2011 budget request (October 1, 2010 through September 30, 2011) to Congress. The FY 2011 budget request for the International Trade Commission is $87 million, a 6.3% increase over the FY 2010 final appropriation. The ITC's increased funding request is driven largely by increases in salaries, benefits, and rent costs.