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To amend the Tariff Act of 1930 relating to de minimis treatment under that Act.
1/17/2025, 9:05 AM
Summary of Bill HR 322
The bill seeks to increase the de minimis value from $800 to $2,000 for goods imported into the United States. This means that goods valued at $2,000 or less would be exempt from certain duties and taxes, making it easier and more cost-effective for individuals and businesses to import goods into the country.
The purpose of this amendment is to modernize and streamline the customs process, making it more efficient and less burdensome for both importers and customs officials. Supporters of the bill argue that increasing the de minimis value will help facilitate trade and boost economic growth by reducing costs and administrative burdens associated with importing goods. Opponents of the bill, however, raise concerns about potential revenue losses for the government and the impact on domestic industries. They argue that increasing the de minimis value could lead to increased competition from foreign goods, potentially harming American businesses and workers. Overall, the De Minimis Value Act aims to strike a balance between facilitating trade and protecting domestic industries. The bill is currently under consideration in Congress, and its ultimate impact remains to be seen.
Congressional Summary of HR 322
Import Security and Fairness Act
This bill excludes imported articles from nonmarket economy countries or countries on the Priority Watch List from receiving de minimis treatment. (Current law allows for imports under a de minimis threshold to enter the United States free of tariffs and taxes with minimal inspection. In 2016, Congress raised this threshold from $200 to $800.)
Under current law, a nonmarket economy country is any foreign country that the Department of Commerce determines does not operate on market principles of cost or pricing structures, so that sales of merchandise in such country do not reflect the fair value of the merchandise. There are currently 12 countries (e.g., China and Russia) that Commerce has designated as nonmarket economy countries. This bill prohibits imports from receiving de minimis treatment if those imports are from nonmarket economy countries.
Additionally, under current law, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative must annually review and report on foreign countries that deny adequate and effective protection of intellectual property rights or deny fair and equitable market access to U.S. persons who rely on intellectual property protection. There are currently seven counties (e.g., Argentina and Indonesia) on this list, known as the Priority Watch List. This bill prohibits imports from receiving de minimis treatment if those imports are from countries on the Priority Watch List.
The bill also directs U.S. Customs and Border Protection to collect additional information on merchandise that may qualify for de minimis treatment and establishes requirements related to detained merchandise.
