U.S. Senator Susan Collins, along with a bipartisan coalition of Senate colleagues, introduced the Fighting Illicit Goods, Helping Trustworthy Importers, and Netting Gains (FIGHTING) for America Act last week.
The legislation aims to bolster Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) ability to halt the influx of illicit goods into the U.S., including fentanyl, counterfeit items, and products made with forced labor, by enhancing the scrutiny of low-value package imports.
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The surge in direct-to-consumer shipments from overseas corporations has exploited the U.S. customs’ “de minimis” rule, which permits tariff-free and streamlined entry for packages valued under $800. This loophole has been increasingly utilized by foreign companies, notably Chinese giants like Shein and Temu, complicating CBP’s efforts to filter out illegal substances and other prohibited goods.
“Chinese companies continue to exploit U.S. trade laws, necessitating stricter customs oversight of low-value imports to curb these abuses and ensure fair trade,” stated Senator Collins. The proposed legislation seeks to refine the rules surrounding de minimis entry, thus preventing these companies from dodging tariffs on specific goods like textiles and footwear or circumventing trade sanctions related to Chinese trade malpractices.
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Key provisions of the FIGHTING for America Act include:
- Tightening de minimis regulations to prevent abuse by large corporations, particularly from China.
- Mandating CBP to gather more detailed information on commercial packages.
- Enhancing the ability to target and confiscate illicit goods.
- Increasing penalties for violators.
Various organizations, including the AFL-CIO, National Council of Textile Organizations, and United Steelworkers, endorsed this initiative, reflecting broad support for strengthening trade law enforcement and supporting U.S. industries.
Joining Senator Collins in introducing the bill were Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Bob Casey (D-PA). This bipartisan effort underscores the legislative commitment to protecting domestic manufacturing and ensuring equitable trade practices.
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