DHS Updates UFLPA Entity List
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released an updated Entity List to strengthen enforcement of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). DHS published a notice about it this week. The update adds two entities and eight subsidiaries that collaborate with the Xinjiang government to enable or benefit from forced labor, including Uyghurs and other persecuted groups. Read more from the DHS news release.
Lawmakers Solicit Ideas on 21CCF from Trade Community
Four U.S. Senators are calling for trade facilitation ideas from the trade community, including AAEI members, as they prepare to introduce legislation to “update U.S. customs law.” The lawmakers include Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), who floated language for possible customs modernization legislation to the trade community more than a year ago. “There are several parts of U.S. customs law that may require updates, and changes to promote trade facilitation should be a key part of that reform…” The deadline for input is July 11, 2023. Read the lawmakers’ letter to the trade.
Port Shutdowns May Leave Lasting Impact
The impact of shutdowns last weekend at the Port of Seattle and Tacoma, Washington could have lasting effects for some shippers. Both ports shut down cargo operations on Saturday. Analysts say shippers may see slowdowns affecting other ports, including the Port of New York and New Jersey, through next week. Department of Labor Acting Secretary Julie Su met with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) this week. It is unclear what the next steps are for the Biden administration. West Coast dockworkers and operators have been negotiating a labor contract since last year. Read Sen. Bill Cassidy’s letter to Acting Secretary Su.
