CBP Planning 'Informed Compliance' Approach to Hong Kong Marking After Transition Period

CBP is planning to take an 45-day “informed compliance” approach for new Hong Kong marking requirements, a CBP spokesman said in an email. The informed compliance period will follow the transition period that ends Sept. 25. Starting on that date, goods produced in Hong Kong are supposed to be marked as a product of China (see 2008100027). During periods of informed compliance, CBP doesn't take enforcement action over compliance with new provisions except for egregious violators.

CBP previously said it had directed personnel from the Ports of Entry and Centers of Excellence and Expertise not to issue marking notices or take enforcement action until Sept. 25 (see 2008110066), but hadn't mentioned the informed compliance period. The changes only involve marking requirements and don't subject the Hong Kong goods to tariffs on goods from China (see 2008130028)