The CTPAT Ultimatum: New EO Ties Entry Filing Privileges to CTPAT Validation Status
A sweeping new White House Executive Order is set to once again shake up global supply chains by requiring a historic overhaul of the U.S. Importer of Record (IOR) framework. It lays out raising penalty floors, and tightening disclosure rules for everyone bringing goods into the United States, among other things.
Origin Engineering: How Substantial Transformation Can Reduce Your Tariff Exposure
“Origin Engineering” refers to modifying the sourcing of essential product inputs or relocating key manufacturing processes from countries subject to higher tariff rates to jurisdictions with more favorable trade treatment. It is one of the most effective tools available to importers navigating elevated tariff exposure.
Keeping the Chain Secure: A Deep Dive into the Latest CTPAT Investigation
The global supply chain is the backbone of the U.S. economy, moving millions of tons of cargo daily. To keep things running smoothly and safely, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) place a significant reliance on the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT). This voluntary program trades “gold star” benefits—like fewer inspections, business resumption priority, and faster border crossings—for a company’s commitment to high-level security.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Tax and Customs / Foreign Trade Compliance
AI is now deeply embedded in the internet and social media, producing everything from humorous content and realistic simulations to advanced automation. These capabilities have expanded beyond entertainment and productivity, reaching into areas of public administration and government oversight. This raises a critical question: if AI is transforming nearly every sector, how will it reshape tax and customs compliance, and how will it be regulated?
Mexico’s Electronic Value Manifest (Manifestación de Valor Electrónica or MVE)
The MVE, which will be enforceable as of April 1, 2026, is a digital document integrated into Mexico’s Single Window for Foreign Trade (VUCEM – Ventanilla Única de Comercio Exterior) through which importers must declare the customs value of goods entering Mexico.
CTPAT: An Anchor for Weathering the Trade Storms
A few weeks ago, at the Trade and Cargo Security Summit, held in New Orleans, we learned that CBP (Customs and Border Protection) WAS NOT going to discuss the current administration’s policy during the conference. (Cue the dramatic music). Will you feel better if I tell you the groan across the audience was conspicuously audible? No? Well, I tried.
The Ghost of CDSOA Still Haunts Us
One of the most anticipated decisions of the Supreme Court’s recent term was Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo. While the specific underlying dispute in Loper Bright isn’t relevant to the trade community—did fishermen have to pay for government-mandated observers on their vessels?—the Court used this case to overturn the broadly applicable judicial deference test established in 1984 in Chevron U.S.A. Inc., v. Natural Resources Defense Council.
From Awareness to Action: A Deep Dive into CTPAT Training
By: Judy Davis, Senior Trade Advisor, Braumiller Consulting Group In the global trade universe, where time holds huge importance, weak security practices in your international operations could be detrimental to your business. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the folks behind CTPAT, are getting serious about proof. Your Supply Chain Security Specialist (SCSS) is like the […]
Navigating the Hurdles: Challenges of Conducting an Annual CTPAT Security Review
The Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) program can offer a fast thoroughfare for international trade. But navigating the annual security audits that ensure CTPAT compliance can feel like a maze. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Let’s explore some common hurdles faced during CTPAT security audits, along with practical tips to simplify the process.
Judicial Deference in Customs Litigation
One of the most anticipated decisions of the Supreme Court’s recent term was Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo. While the specific underlying dispute in Loper Bright isn’t relevant to the trade community—did fishermen have to pay for government-mandated observers on their vessels?—the Court used this case to overturn the broadly applicable judicial deference test established in 1984 in Chevron U.S.A. Inc., v. Natural Resources Defense Council.