Day Two: Government Shutdown

As we reported yesterday, international shipping has not yet been affected by the government shutdown. US Customs and Border Protection indicates that its port of entry operations remain fully operational, including cargo security and duty and tax collection functions. Import specialists, fines and penalties officers, agriculture officers and CEEs (Centers of Excellence and Expertise) will remain active. A few government agencies related to international trade are closed, including the Federal Maritime Commission and the ITA (International Trade Administration).  However, other agencies are operating at minimal capacity, such as the Office of the US Trade Representative, the Bureau of Industry and Security, and the FDA.
 
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau has stopped processing label approvals and permits for new production facilities. This shutdown could hold up as many as 400 label approvals a day. With the launch of so many craft breweries and distilleries in the works, the wait could be long for permits in the pipeline. However, the TTB did confirm that its website will continue to be available and companies will “be able to file electronic payments and returns for federal excise taxes and operational reports”.
 
We will continue to monitor the situation and report any issues from overseas ports to local USA destinations. Please feel free to contact WSSA should you have any questions or concerns!