EAPA Case 7782: YVC USA Inc. (Notice of Determination as to Evasion, August 16, 2023)

WASHINGTON — On January 19, 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a notice of investigation and interim measures in Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) investigation 7782.   In this case, CBP is investigating whether the importer, YVC USA Inc. (the Importer) evaded antidumping duty (AD) order A-570-067 and countervailing duty (CVD) order C-570-068 on forged steel fittings (covered merchandise) from the People’s Republic of China (China).  CBP found there was reasonable suspicion that the Importer entered covered merchandise from China that was transshipped through Sri Lanka.

In light of CBP’s determination and pursuant to its authorities under EAPA, CBP will continue to:

• Require “live” entry for all imports of steel grating, meaning the Importers must submit proper import documentation and duties prior to the release of their merchandise;
• Suspend or extend entries of the Importers without final computation or determination of duties (liquidation), as appropriate; and
• Review the Importers’ continuous bonds and application of single transaction bonds for their entries, as appropriate.

These actions do not preclude CBP from taking additional enforcement measures as it determines appropriate under its EAPA or other legal authorities, which include pursuing civil penalties or investigations into criminal violations.

For additional information on CBP and EAPA, please visit EAPA Trade Enforcement page.  If you suspect an importer of duty evasion, CBP encourages you to submit an allegation through our online portal.

Follow CBP Office of Trade on Twitter @CBPTradeGov.