AGOA, ATPA, and CBERA Programs Spared
 
October 25, 2001
 

Despite the expiration of the GSP, eligible importers may make a claim for duty-free treatment under the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA), the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBI), or the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

CBI & ATPA. With the lapse of GSP, importers should ensure that they are claiming preferential treatment under the CBI by entering "E" or under the ATPA by entering "J" "instead of "A." Entering an "A" would require the importer to pay duties at the time of entry.

AGOA. Importers shipping products from beneficiary AGOA countries (see below) are able to claim preferential treatment under the GSP only by entering "A." However, Customs will continue to accept claims made under the GSP for merchandise from AGOA-beneficiary countries entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption on or after October 1, 2001. The combination of the "A" entry and an AGOA country-of-origin should serve as notice to U.S. Customs that the product is eligible for GSP treatment under AGOA.

Request for Comments on AGOA

The African Growth and Opportunity Act Implementation Subcommittee of the Trade Policy Staff Committee is requesting the submission of written public comments for the annual review of the eligibility of sub-Saharan African countries to receive the benefits of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). DATES: The deadline for comments is November 6, 2001.

For mnore information, contact the Office of African Affairs, Office of the United States Trade Representative, 600 17th Street, NW., Room 501, Washington, D.C., 20508. 202-395-9514.