ABSTRACT

Countries' export and import regulations directly impact an exporter or importer's ability to undertake profitable international trade transactions. This chapter addresses the relationship between U. S. customs regulations and private business transactions. It is divided into two parts. The first reviews the process of importing goods into a country with a primary focus on U. S. import requirements and restrictions. The second part reviews the law relating to the exporting of goods from the U. S. Most countries have similar processes, requirements, and restrictions. The three basic types of laws that regulate the importation of goods include: assessment of duties, marking requirements, and standards requirements. All goods imported into the United States are subject to the provisions of the harmonized tariff schedule (HTS). The HTS classification number determines the duty rate to be applied to imported goods. The Export Administration Regulations provide a general overview of U. S. export restrictions as published by the Bureau of Export Administration.