FWS Announces Pilot Program to Test Filing of Required Forms in ACE

The Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking importers, exporters and customs brokers for participation in a pilot program to test the filing of FWS-required documents through the Automated Commercial Environment. Like other agencies, FWS is required under the Obama administration’s single window initiative to transition its cargo release functions to ACE’s PGA message set by Nov. 1. At that time, ACE filers will be required to file FWS data electronically through ACE using the Automated Broker Interface, rather than using eDecs or paper, said the agency in a public bulletin issued Jan. 26 (here).

Any importer, exporter or broker that wants to volunteer to participate in the pilot, which will begin July 4, should send an email request to lawenforcement@fws.gov and title the email “ITDS Pilot Participation,” said FWS. The email should include an email address and telephone number.

Based on responses to FWS’ request for participation in the pilot, which will begin July 4, the agency “will work with CBP to determine how the pilot will be conducted, including pilot ports and commodities,” it said. In the meantime, FWS will “continue to provide updated information on the FWS message set for software development as well as design requirements as we engage in additional discussions with CBP,” it said. The agency is also developing a FWS International Trade Data System (ITDS) webpage to provide additional information, it said.