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Mandatory TFTEA drawback set for Feb. 24

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said all drawback claims will have to be filed electronically in the Automated Commercial Environment.

   U.S. Customs and Border Protection reminded customs brokers this week that filing of Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act (TFTEA) drawback claims becomes mandatory on Feb. 24.
   At that time, all drawback claims must be filed electronically in the Automated Commercial Environment in accordance with the 2015 TFTEA legislation, CBP said.
   Basically, a drawback is a refund of customs duties paid on imported materials that are then exported or used in the manufacture of exports. With documented proof, exporters can receive refunds from CBP of up to 99 percent on duties paid. 
   CBP said it will hold “drawback support calls” with the trade one week before the Feb. 24 transition and one week after to address any questions or concerns. Those calls will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. EST on Feb. 19, 22 and 25 and March 1. The call-in number is (877) 336-1828, code: 6124214. 
    The trade also may email questions to [email protected].

Chris Gillis

Located in the Washington, D.C. area, Chris Gillis primarily reports on regulatory and legislative topics that impact cross-border trade. He joined American Shipper in 1994, shortly after graduating from Mount St. Mary’s College in Emmitsburg, Md., with a degree in international business and economics.