How The Federal Government Shutdown Will Affect Imports Into The United States
Annual funding for the U.S. federal government expired on September 30 causing the government to shutdown. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has advised the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America that all port of entry operations, cargo security and revenue collection will remain operational under the government shutdown, as they are deemed law enforcement that is necessary for the safety of life and protection of property.
How A Shutdown Will Affect Government Agencies:
Many government services and agencies are closed, suspended or otherwise impacted.
- While some 45 percent of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) staff will be furloughed (on temporary unpaid leave) during the shutdown, the FDA has advised that they will continue to review import transactions. As of this time, we do expect to see some delays in the processing of import transactions.
- The United States Department of Agriculture is effectively furloughed until further notice
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is effectively furloughed until further notice
We recognize that you may have questions regarding the effects of this sequestration on other government agencies. Pacific Customs Brokers will continue to monitor the program, and will provide further information as it is known. As always, we welcome your questions and concerns, and encourage you to contact us.
