Author name: Arthur O'Meara

A globe wrapped in chains of tariff signs and duties, symbolizing trade barriers and global limitations, Trade barrier, Duties and restrictions in global commerce

Most Commonly Asked Questions About Supply Chain Security

Uncategorized /

Today’s world is interconnected and fraught with risks. Securing supply chains has become more crucial than ever. What started as a post-9/11 initiative to prevent threats like smuggling and terrorism has evolved into a comprehensive system for safeguarding the global flow of goods. Supply chain security now encompasses not only physical threats but also cybersecurity, […]

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Two cargo workers looking over documentation in a warehouse.

Most Commonly Asked Questions About the HTSUS

Global Trade, Harmonized Tariff Schedule /

Navigating the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) can feel like trying to decode a foreign language – but it’s an essential skill for anyone involved in international trade. As the official system for classifying imported goods and determining duty rates, the HTSUS plays a critical role in ensuring compliance, calculating tariffs, and

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Semiconductor chip with a flag of China and US on it.

Higher Tariffs on Tungsten and Silicon Products: What You Need to Know

Global Trade /

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has announced plans to increase tariffs on tungsten and silicon products, with the intent of applying more pressure on Chinese imports. These changes target three subheadings related to tungsten, where tariffs will rise to 25%, and two subheadings for wafers and polysilicon, where tariffs will jump to 50%. These

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Shipping container with Chinese flag painted on it

How Overseas Retailers Are Exploiting American Trade Laws

Global Trade, Incoterms, Uncategorized /

The “de minimis” rule, part of Section 321 of the Tariff Act, allows duty-free importation of goods valued under $800 per day, per individual shipment. While this rule was designed to streamline low-value imports, there is evidence suggesting it’s now being exploited by overseas retailers, like Temu and Shein, to flood the US market with

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Customs inspector talking to dock worker

Vague, Boring, Detailed and Interesting Descriptions on Import and Export Documentation

Incoterms /

Let’s dive into the nuances of crafting Customs descriptions, a critical aspect often overlooked by carriers, filers, and importers. Recently, Customs has flagged issues with vague descriptions on documentation, such as the infamous “spare parts.” While it might seem convenient to be concise, vagueness invites scrutiny. Instead, the goal should be to strike a balance

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Logistics and supply chain security scenes at a major shipping harbor

Supply Chain Resiliency is Supply Chain Security

Supply Chain Security /

Global Trade Magazine recently published an article highlighting the possibility of a port workers strike at the East and Gulf Coast ports. Those familiar with O’Meara and Associates will recall our previous discussion on the costs associated with delays due to port shutdowns, particularly in LA/LB. Experienced logistics and supply chain management (SCM) professionals are

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Stack of cargo boxes for import export

Delivered Duty Paid: It’s Only Double the Work

Incoterms /

The Incoterms® Rules, published by the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris, France, are a set of globally recognized standards for international trade. Arthur O’Meara, Principal of O’Meara and Associates, Inc., holds the distinction of being one of only two ICC-certified Incoterms® Rules instructors in the United States. We are frequently asked about our perspective

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Overhead view of a submarine in international waters.

Horseshoes, Hand Grenades & Submarines: The AUKUS Security Partnership

Global Trade /

Summary: the US, UK and Australia have entered a trilateral global security partnership to allow Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines (not to be confused with nuclear-armed submarines). A few takeaways: It was obvious once you saw it. Most things are. But I didn’t see it at first, and instead I focused on the export control

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