US: Call to all in supply chain to get involved with proposed APHIS fee increase

USDA is proposing to amend user fees for Agriculture Quarantine and Inspection Services (APHIS-2013-0021). As a Customs Broker, J&K Fresh is extremely concerned with the proposed rule, which adds a new user fee for imported cargo requiring treatment as a condition of entry. Although there has been no fee in the past, the rule proposes a $375 fee for each fumigation treatment and a $375 fee for each cold-treatment, including "in transit" cold treatment.

All parties involved in the supply chain of imported fresh produce requiring treatment (grapes, citrus, and asparagus are a few that come to mind) need to get involved. APHIS must be made aware of the negative impact this fee will have on the produce business, especially small businesses. The proposed rule can be viewed at AQI User Fee Review. Quick link to file your comments click here. At this time the deadline to submit comments is June 24, 2014. A request to extend the comment period for 60 days was submitted by United Fresh Produce Association.

For more information:
Raymond "Big Ray" Keffer
J&K Fresh, LLC
Tel: +1 (310) 419-8770 ext. 234
Fax: +1 (310) 356-3588
Email: ray@jkfresh.com
jkfresh.com