Monday, July 27, 2009
We've Moved!
We’ve moved. You can continue to get foreign-trade zone news by visiting us at our new location – http://www.integrationpoint.comglobaltradenews/
Friday, June 12, 2009
FTZ Board Grants Port of Houston Expansion of FTZ #84
The Foreign-Trade Zones Board has published a notice in the Federal Register announcing the result of its consideration of an application, filed Sept.10, 2008, submitted by the Port of Houston Authority, to expand its zone to include six additional sites in the Houston, Texas area. The board therefore is granting authority to expand FTZ #84 as described in the application and Federal Register notice. The grant is subject to the FTZ Act and the board's regulations of a 2,000-acre activation limit for the overall general-purpose zone project and further subject to a sunset provision that would terminate authority on May 31, 2014 for Sites 17 - 22, where no activity has occurred under FTZ procedures before that date.
To view this article, please visit Export Industry News.
To view this article, please visit Export Industry News.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Strategic Plan and Location for Famous Footwear Provider
Brown Shoe Company, Inc. recently marked the completion of its 350,000-square foot Famous Footwear Distribution Center, adding time savings and cost efficiencies to the process of shipping footwear to the chain's stores and consumers on the West Coast.
The Famous Footwear DC is located within Tejon Industrial Complex (TIC), a 1,450-acre master-planned business park anchoring California's central trade corridor at the junction of Interstate 5 and Highway 99 in Central California. TIC is part of the 270,000-acre Tejon Ranch, the largest contiguous expanse of private land in California. This strategic location, approximately 90 minutes north of the Los Angeles ports and four hours south of Oakland, gives warehouse operators efficient access to the state's two major port complexes and the ability to serve consumers from San Francisco to San Diego and east to Las Vegas in a one-day truck turn.
The Famous Footwear DC currently employs about 75 people, and is expected to create approximately 40 additional jobs in upcoming months. TIC provides access to the qualified workforce of the Bakersfield area, a 24-hour operating environment critical to warehouse operators, Foreign Trade Zone designation, efficient access to all the transit corridors of the 11 Western States, and has ample room for future expansion and customization.
To read the full article, visit Business Facilities.
Friday, June 5, 2009
FTZ Board Grants ZF Lemforder Corporation Authority for FTZ #38 Subzone Status
In a notice published in the Federal Register on June 3, the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board granted authority for subzone status for activity related to assembly of automotive suspension systems at the ZF Lemforder Corporation facility located in Spartanburg, SC (Subzone 7), as requested by the South Carolina Ports Authority, grantee of FTZ #38. The application was formally filed on April 30, 2008.
To read the full article, please visit Export Industry News.
To read the full article, please visit Export Industry News.
International Business to Bring Growing Green Operation to Anderson, IN
A five-person team from Variety Global Business (VGB) Group spent the past three days in Anderson, IN where the company is considering a manufacturing and distribution center. At a time when much U.S. manufacturing has moved to Asia, John Lin, Founder of VGB, said he wants to bring his Chinese company to Anderson because of the skilled work force and to bring his product closer to his customers.
John Pitre, CEO of VGB’s “starchware” division, said the company has accelerated its timeline and could be operational in Anderson in nine months. VGB has also expanded the scope of the project from 120-140 jobs to around 450 jobs.
VGB produces “starchware,” an alternative to plastic foam products such as Styrofoam, made from corn starch. Pitre said tableware is the kind used at a picnic, while industrial starchware is used for food packaging. VGB claims its starchware is 97.7 percent compostable, and breaks down in just 120 days in a landfill.
Economic Development Director Linda Dawson said city officials put VGB in contact with creative banking experts and an architectural firm. The city also explained Anderson’s foreign trade zones as a designated area of the city that is like a foreign country, noting that most of the former automotive plants have been designated as FTZs. “Plant 9, for example, is not in an FTZ, but if we have an area already designated as an FTZ, we have the ability to swap properties.”
Officials from VGB haves expressed interest in the former General Motors Corp. Plant 20, off 38th Street near Scatterfield Road. But Plant 9, across from the former Guide Corp. property near 38th Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, is also being considered for short-term operations.
For more information on the decision to manufacture out of Anderson, IN please visit The Herald Bulletin.
John Pitre, CEO of VGB’s “starchware” division, said the company has accelerated its timeline and could be operational in Anderson in nine months. VGB has also expanded the scope of the project from 120-140 jobs to around 450 jobs.
VGB produces “starchware,” an alternative to plastic foam products such as Styrofoam, made from corn starch. Pitre said tableware is the kind used at a picnic, while industrial starchware is used for food packaging. VGB claims its starchware is 97.7 percent compostable, and breaks down in just 120 days in a landfill.
Economic Development Director Linda Dawson said city officials put VGB in contact with creative banking experts and an architectural firm. The city also explained Anderson’s foreign trade zones as a designated area of the city that is like a foreign country, noting that most of the former automotive plants have been designated as FTZs. “Plant 9, for example, is not in an FTZ, but if we have an area already designated as an FTZ, we have the ability to swap properties.”
Officials from VGB haves expressed interest in the former General Motors Corp. Plant 20, off 38th Street near Scatterfield Road. But Plant 9, across from the former Guide Corp. property near 38th Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, is also being considered for short-term operations.
For more information on the decision to manufacture out of Anderson, IN please visit The Herald Bulletin.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Enid City, Oklahoma Gets the OK for a FTZ
A foreign trade zone can be a significant economic development for the city of Enid because it can allow participating businesses to defer or eliminate taxes on imported items.
Matthew S. Weaver, director of marketing and business development for Oklahoma City Free Trade Zone, discussed the benefits during the Enid City Commission study session Tuesday night. Weaver said a foreign trade zone is a customs duty management program created by the federal government in 1934 as part of the New Deal. Its purpose is to expedite trade and help increase global competitiveness of U.S.-based companies.
FTZ 106, located at Will Rogers World Airport, is a grantee and can grant the status to Enid. The city’s plan is to establish the zone at Enid Woodring Regional Airport, to aid in the development of an industrial park there. Weaver said there are cash flow advantages, including lower inventory costs, deferred, reduced or eliminated customs duties (taxes), savings distribution, preferential duty rates and other advantages.
An item allowing the establishment of a foreign trade zone was approved during the regular commission meeting.
To read the full article, please visit Enid News.
Matthew S. Weaver, director of marketing and business development for Oklahoma City Free Trade Zone, discussed the benefits during the Enid City Commission study session Tuesday night. Weaver said a foreign trade zone is a customs duty management program created by the federal government in 1934 as part of the New Deal. Its purpose is to expedite trade and help increase global competitiveness of U.S.-based companies.
FTZ 106, located at Will Rogers World Airport, is a grantee and can grant the status to Enid. The city’s plan is to establish the zone at Enid Woodring Regional Airport, to aid in the development of an industrial park there. Weaver said there are cash flow advantages, including lower inventory costs, deferred, reduced or eliminated customs duties (taxes), savings distribution, preferential duty rates and other advantages.
An item allowing the establishment of a foreign trade zone was approved during the regular commission meeting.
To read the full article, please visit Enid News.
Charlotte Regional Partnership Named Grantee for FTZ 57
The Charlotte Regional Partnership has become the grantee and administrator for Foreign Trade Zone 57. Although designated "Mecklenburg County," FTZ 57 extends beyond the county's borders, including sites in Alexander, Cabarrus and Catawba counties.
The N.C. Department of Commerce requested that the public/private economic development organization provide the zone's oversight, so there was more direct regional involvement. Although FTZ 57 is the oldest in the state, it was the only one of the six North Carolina foreign trade zones that wasn't under local control.
"Although we always have promoted the FTZ as one of our regional assets, as the zone's administrator, we can more directly market and grow the foreign trade zone, as we work with existing industry and recruit new businesses to Charlotte USA," said Ronnie Bryant, Charlotte Regional Partnership president and chief executive officer.
Foreign trade zones offer tax and duty advantages to the existing industry and serve as an incentive to attract companies. Since FTZs are legally outside U.S. Customs territory, merchandise from anywhere in the world may enter a foreign trade zone without a formal customs entry or the payment of customs duties or government excise taxes.
Foreign trade zones can be a building or just a room, but they must be within 90 miles of a U.S. Customs and Border Protection port of entry. FTZ 57 includes 16 general purpose sites for public use, as well as two subzones that are company exclusive. Several additional sites are pending approval by the U.S. Foreign Trade Zones Board.
The N.C. Department of Commerce requested that the public/private economic development organization provide the zone's oversight, so there was more direct regional involvement. Although FTZ 57 is the oldest in the state, it was the only one of the six North Carolina foreign trade zones that wasn't under local control.
"Although we always have promoted the FTZ as one of our regional assets, as the zone's administrator, we can more directly market and grow the foreign trade zone, as we work with existing industry and recruit new businesses to Charlotte USA," said Ronnie Bryant, Charlotte Regional Partnership president and chief executive officer.
Foreign trade zones offer tax and duty advantages to the existing industry and serve as an incentive to attract companies. Since FTZs are legally outside U.S. Customs territory, merchandise from anywhere in the world may enter a foreign trade zone without a formal customs entry or the payment of customs duties or government excise taxes.
Foreign trade zones can be a building or just a room, but they must be within 90 miles of a U.S. Customs and Border Protection port of entry. FTZ 57 includes 16 general purpose sites for public use, as well as two subzones that are company exclusive. Several additional sites are pending approval by the U.S. Foreign Trade Zones Board.
Friday, May 22, 2009
FTZ Board Grants Michelin North American Authority for FTZ #50 Subzone Status
In a notice published in the Federal Register on May 20, the Foreign-Trade Zones Board granted authority for subzone status for activity related to tire warehousing and distribution at the Michelin North America, Inc. facility located in San Bernardino, California, as requested by the Board of Harbor Commissioners of the Port of Long Beach, grantee of FTZ #50. The application was formally filed on May 28, 2008.
The FTZ Board adopted the findings and recommendations of the examiner's report and found that the requirements of the FTZ Act and the board's regulations were satisfied and that approval of the application was in the public interest. The subzone status is subject to the FTZ Act and the board's regulations.
To view this article, please visit Export Industry News.
The FTZ Board adopted the findings and recommendations of the examiner's report and found that the requirements of the FTZ Act and the board's regulations were satisfied and that approval of the application was in the public interest. The subzone status is subject to the FTZ Act and the board's regulations.
To view this article, please visit Export Industry News.
Expansion Sought for Louisiana's FTZ #124
An application has been submitted to the Foreign-Trade Zones Board by the Port of South Louisiana, grantee of FTZ #124, requesting special-purpose subzone status for the barite milling facility of Excalibur Minerals LLC, located in New Iberia, Louisiana. It was formally filed on May 6, 2009.
The Excalibur facility is used for activities related to the milling (heating, grinding, crushing), storage and distribution of ground barite, primarily for the US market. The material that would be purchased from abroad is raw barite, dutiable at $1.25 per metric ton.
FTZ procedures could excempt the company from customs duty payments on the foreign component used in export production. The company anticipates that less than 1% of the plant's shipments will be exported. On its domestic sales, Excalibur would be able to choose the duty rate during customs entry procedures that applies to the ground barite (duty free) for the foreign input noted above. FTZ designation would further allow Excalibur to realize logistical benefits through the use of weekly customs entry procedures, as well as savings from the elimination of duties on materials that become scrap/waste during manufacturing. The application indicates that the FTZ-related savings would help improve the facility's international competitiveness.
To read more, please visit Import Industry News.
The Excalibur facility is used for activities related to the milling (heating, grinding, crushing), storage and distribution of ground barite, primarily for the US market. The material that would be purchased from abroad is raw barite, dutiable at $1.25 per metric ton.
FTZ procedures could excempt the company from customs duty payments on the foreign component used in export production. The company anticipates that less than 1% of the plant's shipments will be exported. On its domestic sales, Excalibur would be able to choose the duty rate during customs entry procedures that applies to the ground barite (duty free) for the foreign input noted above. FTZ designation would further allow Excalibur to realize logistical benefits through the use of weekly customs entry procedures, as well as savings from the elimination of duties on materials that become scrap/waste during manufacturing. The application indicates that the FTZ-related savings would help improve the facility's international competitiveness.
To read more, please visit Import Industry News.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
GM Plans to Export Cars from China to the US
General Motors (GM) is planning to build cars in China and import them into the United States, a strategy that could trigger further job losses and union anger in the US. This plan to shift a greater proportion of the struggling car maker's production overseas is still being negotiated with US politicians, who have already lent GM $15.4 billion in order to keep it afloat and safeguard its 90,000 US workers.
However, a spokesman for GM in Shanghai said it was "only a matter of time" before vehicles made in China are imported into the company's home market, in another blow to the US car industry. After losing $6 billion in the first quarter, GM has slashed its global production by 900,000 vehicles. Around 13 assembly plants will be affected by shutdowns in the US. The company have a June 1 deadline to complete a restructuring or follow Chrysler into Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
To read more, please visit the Telegraph.
However, a spokesman for GM in Shanghai said it was "only a matter of time" before vehicles made in China are imported into the company's home market, in another blow to the US car industry. After losing $6 billion in the first quarter, GM has slashed its global production by 900,000 vehicles. Around 13 assembly plants will be affected by shutdowns in the US. The company have a June 1 deadline to complete a restructuring or follow Chrysler into Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
To read more, please visit the Telegraph.
FTZs Help Companies Save Millions During Touch Economic Times
While no one likes difficult and tough economic down cycles, periods like the one we're in now serve the useful purpose of helping companies increase their focus on business process improvement--for example, by exposing inadequate global trade processes in order to improve them. Global trade, despite the current downturn, is in a long-term growth cycle. Combined U.S. imports and exports increased from under $100 billion in 1968 to nearly $3.5 trillion dollars in 2008--with almost half that total growth occurring in the last decade.
Given this reality, it's critical that business executives and global trade directors leverage current economic challenges to create fast and significant international trade process improvements, carefully investing limited capital in those areas where it can get the biggest bang for the buck. One excellent way to do this is by taking advantage of the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) program. “Foreign-Trade Zones can save U.S. importers millions of dollars and will often improve the speed of the supply chain,” explains Tommy Berry, President and CEO of PointTrade Services.
To read the full article, visit the Utah Pulse.
Given this reality, it's critical that business executives and global trade directors leverage current economic challenges to create fast and significant international trade process improvements, carefully investing limited capital in those areas where it can get the biggest bang for the buck. One excellent way to do this is by taking advantage of the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) program. “Foreign-Trade Zones can save U.S. importers millions of dollars and will often improve the speed of the supply chain,” explains Tommy Berry, President and CEO of PointTrade Services.
To read the full article, visit the Utah Pulse.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Approval for Expansion of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, LLC
The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, grantee of FTZ 222, has requested authority on behalf of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA), LLC to expand the scope of manufacturing authority (additional engine capacity) conducted under zone procedures within Subzone 222A at the HMMA facility in Montgomery, Alabama.
The application to expand the scope of the manufacturing authority under zone procedures is approved, subject to the Foreign-Trade Zones Act and the Foreign-Trade Zone Board.
To read the full article, please visit Trading Markets.
The application to expand the scope of the manufacturing authority under zone procedures is approved, subject to the Foreign-Trade Zones Act and the Foreign-Trade Zone Board.
To read the full article, please visit Trading Markets.
Reorganization and Expansion Sought for Virginia's FTZ-20
An application has been submitted to the Foreign-Trade Zones Board by the Virginia Port Authority, grantee of FTZ #20, requesting authority to reorganize and expand the zone project within the Norfolk Customs and Border Protection port of entry. The application was submitted pursuant to the provisions of the Foreign-Trade Zones Act and the regulations of the Board. The zone project consists of eighteen sites in the Hampton Roads area, with an overall increase of 639 acres in the total zone space. The sites will provide warehousing and distribution services to area businesses. No specific manufacturing authority is being requested at this time.
To read the full article, please visit Import Industry News.
To read the full article, please visit Import Industry News.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Proposed FTZ in Kern County, California
An application has been submited to the Foreign-Trade Zones Board by the County of Kern Department of Airports to establish a general-purpose foreign-trade zone at sites in Kern County, California. Meadows Field Airport in Kern County has been designated by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as a user fee airport. The application was submitted pursuant to the provisions of the FTZ Act and the regulations of the Board. It was formally filed on April 28, 2009.
For more details on the proposed zone, please visit Export Industry News.
For more details on the proposed zone, please visit Export Industry News.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Salt Lake City Foreign Trade Zone Launch Event and Educational Seminar
Plan now to attend the Salt Lake Foreign Trade Zone Launch Event, May 14 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the Grand America Hotel, Imperial Ballroom B, where you will learn how you can use this important asset to defer, reduce or eliminate customs duties, improve cash flow, lower inventory costs and streamline customs procedures.
Cost is $20 and includes lunch. RSVP by May 8, 2009 to Amber Deibert at adeibert@edcutah.org with your credit card information and the number attending.
For more information on the Salt Lake City FTZ Seminar, please visit the Utah Pulse.
Cost is $20 and includes lunch. RSVP by May 8, 2009 to Amber Deibert at adeibert@edcutah.org with your credit card information and the number attending.
For more information on the Salt Lake City FTZ Seminar, please visit the Utah Pulse.
Application for Expansion of FTZ-75 in Phoenix, Arizona
An application has been submitted to the Foreign-Trade Zones Board by the City of Phoenix, Arizona, grantee of FTZ 75, requesting authority to expand the zone project within the Phoenix Customs and Border Protection port of entry. It was formally filed on April 23, 2009.
The applicant is requesting authority to expand the general-purpose zone to include the jet fuel storage and distribution system at, and adjacent to, the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, Arizona (Proposed Site 5). The system includes the off-airport terminal, airport terminal, subsurface pipeline and airport hydrant fueling system. These facilities consist primarily of storage tanks, pipelines, pumps, valves, filters, meters and related equipment. The system is operated by Airport Fueling Facilities Corporation, which is a consortium of airlines that service the airport. No specific manufacturing authority is being requested at this time. Such requests would be made to the Board on a case-by-case basis.
To read the full article, please visit Trading Markets.
The applicant is requesting authority to expand the general-purpose zone to include the jet fuel storage and distribution system at, and adjacent to, the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, Arizona (Proposed Site 5). The system includes the off-airport terminal, airport terminal, subsurface pipeline and airport hydrant fueling system. These facilities consist primarily of storage tanks, pipelines, pumps, valves, filters, meters and related equipment. The system is operated by Airport Fueling Facilities Corporation, which is a consortium of airlines that service the airport. No specific manufacturing authority is being requested at this time. Such requests would be made to the Board on a case-by-case basis.
To read the full article, please visit Trading Markets.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
TEDA Seeking Foreign-Trade Subzone Status
Once a year, community leaders from Terrebonne and Lafourche embark upon a mission to Washington, D.C. with hopes of persuading our federal leaders to help get funding for projects, change laws and consider federal applications. This year’s trip, organized by the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce, began on March 29.
Focused on identifying and promoting opportunities for business and industry, Terrebonne Economic Development Authority's (TEDA) itinerary included meetings with the Department of Transportation’s marine administration, Senators Mary Landrieu and David Vitter, Representative Charlie Melancon, Invest in America, the Small Business Administration, the Department of Labor, the Foreign Trade Zone-Department of Commerce, EX-IM Bank and the USDA.
Two meetings in particular, one with the Foreign Trade Zone-Department of Commerce, and another with EX-IM Bank, laid the foundation for immediate-action items upon Ferdinand’s return to Terrebonne. For three years, TEDA has pursued Foreign Trade Subzone status for several Terrebonne businesses.
“Its value is a marketing tool to attract and retain businesses to Terrebonne in order to manufacture, sell, and collect taxes on the items it produces,” Ferdinand commented.
In the meeting, several opportunities were realized for Terrebonne. As a result, TEDA is pursuing a new platform within the program for Terrebonne to receive FTZ status.
To read the full article, visit the Daily Comet.
Focused on identifying and promoting opportunities for business and industry, Terrebonne Economic Development Authority's (TEDA) itinerary included meetings with the Department of Transportation’s marine administration, Senators Mary Landrieu and David Vitter, Representative Charlie Melancon, Invest in America, the Small Business Administration, the Department of Labor, the Foreign Trade Zone-Department of Commerce, EX-IM Bank and the USDA.
Two meetings in particular, one with the Foreign Trade Zone-Department of Commerce, and another with EX-IM Bank, laid the foundation for immediate-action items upon Ferdinand’s return to Terrebonne. For three years, TEDA has pursued Foreign Trade Subzone status for several Terrebonne businesses.
“Its value is a marketing tool to attract and retain businesses to Terrebonne in order to manufacture, sell, and collect taxes on the items it produces,” Ferdinand commented.
In the meeting, several opportunities were realized for Terrebonne. As a result, TEDA is pursuing a new platform within the program for Terrebonne to receive FTZ status.
To read the full article, visit the Daily Comet.
One Local Company Operates One of the Busiest FTZs in the US
World Warehouse and Distribution Executive Vice President Bill Glaude said the company has been told by local Customs and Border Protection officials that U.S. Foreign Trade Zone #54, which takes up 111,000 square feet of its Champlain facilities, is the most active Foreign Trade Zone in the United States.
The largest part of that activity involves a distribution project for Modelo Molson Imports L.P. Modelo Molson Imports was formed in 2008 to import, distribute and market the Modelo portfolio of beers throughout Canada.
World Warehouse has handled Modelo Molson's shipments to Canada's Maritime provinces and Ontario since late April 2008. The brands include Corona, Corona Light and Negra Modelo.
"We average 2,000 ocean containers a year in-bound," Glaude said. "That equates to about 3.5 million cases of beer."
That means approximately 2,000 container loads of Corona, Corona Light and Negra Modelo beer, about 3.5 million cases, passed through the Clinton County Foreign Trade Zone last year.
To read the full article, please visit Press Republican.
The largest part of that activity involves a distribution project for Modelo Molson Imports L.P. Modelo Molson Imports was formed in 2008 to import, distribute and market the Modelo portfolio of beers throughout Canada.
World Warehouse has handled Modelo Molson's shipments to Canada's Maritime provinces and Ontario since late April 2008. The brands include Corona, Corona Light and Negra Modelo.
"We average 2,000 ocean containers a year in-bound," Glaude said. "That equates to about 3.5 million cases of beer."
That means approximately 2,000 container loads of Corona, Corona Light and Negra Modelo beer, about 3.5 million cases, passed through the Clinton County Foreign Trade Zone last year.
To read the full article, please visit Press Republican.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Lenoir County Leaders Work to Better Economic Partnership with South Korea
As the global recession continues to plague economies at home and abroad, local and state officials are working to establish better working relationships with internationanl markets.
The partnership between North Carolina and South Korean markets has improved in recent years. The state exports tobacco, cotton and corn to South Korea, which has enabled NC to become South Korea's 11th largest exporter of goods and services this year. The state exported nearly $575 million worth of goods to South Korea last year.
Eastern North Carolina's Global TransPark is encouraged to be evaluated as a place to ship pork products from North Carolina to South Korea. The Global TransPark is one of seven approved general purpose Foreign-Trade Zones in the state and Lenoir County is one of only six locations in the state that has been designated an "Export Ready" site by the NC Department of Commerce. International markets are using the trade zones to ship their goods without charge to other ports nationwide.
To view the full article, please visit ENC Today.
The partnership between North Carolina and South Korean markets has improved in recent years. The state exports tobacco, cotton and corn to South Korea, which has enabled NC to become South Korea's 11th largest exporter of goods and services this year. The state exported nearly $575 million worth of goods to South Korea last year.
Eastern North Carolina's Global TransPark is encouraged to be evaluated as a place to ship pork products from North Carolina to South Korea. The Global TransPark is one of seven approved general purpose Foreign-Trade Zones in the state and Lenoir County is one of only six locations in the state that has been designated an "Export Ready" site by the NC Department of Commerce. International markets are using the trade zones to ship their goods without charge to other ports nationwide.
To view the full article, please visit ENC Today.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Expansion Sought for Another Kansas City Foreign-Trade Zone
An application has been submitted requesting the authority to expand Kansas City's Foreign-Trade Zone #17. It was formally filed to the Foreign-Trade Zones Board only 5 days after the submitted request for changes to FTZ #15.
The applicant is requesting authority to expand the general-purpose zone to include the Midwest Commerce Center, located at 17159 Mercury Street in Gardner, Kansas. The proposed new site would be designated Site 8 and will be used for warehousing, storage, and distribution activities. No specific manufacturing requests are being made at this time.
The FTZ Board is inviting public comment on the application. Submissions shall be addressed to the Board's Executive Secretary. The closing period for their receipt is June 19, 2009.
For more details on the request for expansion of FTZ #17 in Kansas City, please visit Import Industry News.
The applicant is requesting authority to expand the general-purpose zone to include the Midwest Commerce Center, located at 17159 Mercury Street in Gardner, Kansas. The proposed new site would be designated Site 8 and will be used for warehousing, storage, and distribution activities. No specific manufacturing requests are being made at this time.
The FTZ Board is inviting public comment on the application. Submissions shall be addressed to the Board's Executive Secretary. The closing period for their receipt is June 19, 2009.
For more details on the request for expansion of FTZ #17 in Kansas City, please visit Import Industry News.
Closing the Loop with Entry Visibility
Managing the import process requires visibility into the entire importing process especially when it comes to entry validation. Companies need to be able to validate 100% of their entries 100% of the time to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements around the globe. But how can companies validate entries without spending an inordinate amount of time and resources?
The white paper “Closing the Loop with Entry Visibility” does an excellent job of explaining the challenges companies face in their importing process, how closing the loop by validating entries and facilitating a post-entry amendment process can greatly increase compliance as well as provide bottom-line savings.
Click here to download this entry visibility white paper and learn how your organization can start closing the loop and saving money.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Aventure Aviation Named Top Exporter in Southeast
Aventure Aviation, a supplier of aircraft parts headquartered in Peachtree City, has been selected by the US Small Business Administration as the winner of the 2009 Exporter of the Year for Georgia and Exporter of the Year for the Southeast US.
The Exporter of the Year award is presented to companies based on the total number of export deals completed in 2008, increase in sales in 2008 compared to previous years, exports as percentage of total sales, the company's commitment to exporting and to customer service, and the company's innovation and originality in marketing their products or services.
Aventure has grown substantially since its formation in 2001 when it began with only one international account and three staff members. Today, exports account for over 90% of its sales and Aventure has increased its staff to thirteen employees. To accomodate this growth, in June 2008, Aventure Aviation expanded and moved into their new custombuilt facility on six acres in Peachtree City, GA, located in the Foreign Trade Zone.
To view the full article on Aventure Aviation, visit The Citizen.
The Exporter of the Year award is presented to companies based on the total number of export deals completed in 2008, increase in sales in 2008 compared to previous years, exports as percentage of total sales, the company's commitment to exporting and to customer service, and the company's innovation and originality in marketing their products or services.
Aventure has grown substantially since its formation in 2001 when it began with only one international account and three staff members. Today, exports account for over 90% of its sales and Aventure has increased its staff to thirteen employees. To accomodate this growth, in June 2008, Aventure Aviation expanded and moved into their new custombuilt facility on six acres in Peachtree City, GA, located in the Foreign Trade Zone.
To view the full article on Aventure Aviation, visit The Citizen.
Reorganization and Expansion Sought for Kansas City's Foreign-Trade Zone #15
An application has been submitted to the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board by the Greater Kansas City Foreign-Trade Zone, Inc (grantee of FTZ 15) requesting authority to reorganize and expand the zone in the Kansas City, Missouri, area within the Kansas City Customs and Border Protection port of entry. The application was submitted pursuant to the provisions of the Foreign-Trade Zones Act and the regulations of the Board. It was formally filed on April 8, 2009.
In accordance with the Board's regulations, Christopher Kemp of the FTZ staff has been designated examiner to investigate the application and report to the Board.
For more details on the application in review, please visit Import Industry News
In accordance with the Board's regulations, Christopher Kemp of the FTZ staff has been designated examiner to investigate the application and report to the Board.
For more details on the application in review, please visit Import Industry News
Monday, April 13, 2009
Foreign-Trade Zone Bill Passed Both Houses in Baltimore City's Annapolis
This year the City Administration did pretty well in Annapolis - of the 11 cross-filed bills introduced at the administration's request, only one was withdrawn. Seven passed through both the House and Senate, one of which being the Foreign-Trade Zone bill.
This emergency bill brings Baltimore into compliance with the definition of Foreign Trade Zone of the US Department of Commerce. Foreign Trade Zones are like the duty-free shop at the airport, except for companies!
The Baltimore City Paper provides a full list of the eleven bills discussed at this year's session.
This emergency bill brings Baltimore into compliance with the definition of Foreign Trade Zone of the US Department of Commerce. Foreign Trade Zones are like the duty-free shop at the airport, except for companies!
The Baltimore City Paper provides a full list of the eleven bills discussed at this year's session.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Expansion Sought for Kentucky's Foreign-Trade Zone #29
An application has been submitted to the Foreign-Trade Zones Board by the Louisville and Jefferson County Riverport Authority, grantee of Foreign-Trade Zone #29, requesting special-purpose subzone status for the aluminum foil liner stock manufacturing plant and warehouse of Reynolds Packaging LLC (Reynolds), located in Louisville, Kentucky. The application was submitted pursuant to the provisions of the Foreign-Trade Zones Act, as amended (19 U.S.C. 81a-81u), and the regulations of the Board (15 CFR part 400). It was formally filed on March 25, 2009.
FTZ procedures could exempt Reynolds from customs duty payments on the foreign aluminum converter foil used in export production (about 15% of annual shipments). On domestic shipments, the company would be able to elect the duty rate that applies to finished aluminum foil liner stock (duty free) for the foreign aluminum converter foil. Reynolds would also be exempt from duty payments on any aluminum foil for consumer use that becomes scrap or waste during the repackaging activity. The application indicates that the savings from FTZ procedures would help improve the facilities’ international competitiveness.
To view the full article, visit The Official Export Guide at
http://blogs.officialexportguide.com/news/?p=2430
FTZ procedures could exempt Reynolds from customs duty payments on the foreign aluminum converter foil used in export production (about 15% of annual shipments). On domestic shipments, the company would be able to elect the duty rate that applies to finished aluminum foil liner stock (duty free) for the foreign aluminum converter foil. Reynolds would also be exempt from duty payments on any aluminum foil for consumer use that becomes scrap or waste during the repackaging activity. The application indicates that the savings from FTZ procedures would help improve the facilities’ international competitiveness.
To view the full article, visit The Official Export Guide at
http://blogs.officialexportguide.com/news/?p=2430
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
If You Were in Doubt, Utah Really is Global
The phrase "Utah is global" took on even greater meaning last week, when the Foreign-Trade Zones Board of the U.S. Department of Commerce approved Salt Lake City's application to reactivate Foreign Trade Zone #30.
A Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) is a geographical location, licensed by the U.S. government. Salt Lake City's FTZ will offer Utah businesses important advantages in competing on a global scale.
"This is great news for Salt Lake City and Utah businesses," says Mayor Ralph Becker, "and a great complement to the other assets we have in place as a global city."
To read the full article, visit the Utah Pulse at http://www.utahpulse.com/featured_article/if-you-were-doubt-utah-really-global
A Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) is a geographical location, licensed by the U.S. government. Salt Lake City's FTZ will offer Utah businesses important advantages in competing on a global scale.
"This is great news for Salt Lake City and Utah businesses," says Mayor Ralph Becker, "and a great complement to the other assets we have in place as a global city."
To read the full article, visit the Utah Pulse at http://www.utahpulse.com/featured_article/if-you-were-doubt-utah-really-global
Monday, March 30, 2009
Pittsburgh International Airport Development Designed to Attract Business
Trammell Crow Co. will build two speculative industrial buildings near Pittsburgh International Airport later this year in hopes of attracting companies that can help build the region into a distribution center.
"Our primary goal ... is to put Pittsburgh on the global stage and to bring greater awareness of Pittsburgh International Airport to a larger pool of companies looking to expand their operations and enhance their competitiveness," he said.
The new buildings, ranging from about 100,000- to 220,000-square-feet, will be in a foreign trade zone and are suited to housing freight forwarders or other logistics operators, Bradford said. Air cargo eventually could be developed on land south of International Drive, to which Trammell Crow also has development rights, he added.
To view the full article, visit Pittsburgh Tribune-Review at http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_617822.html
"Our primary goal ... is to put Pittsburgh on the global stage and to bring greater awareness of Pittsburgh International Airport to a larger pool of companies looking to expand their operations and enhance their competitiveness," he said.
The new buildings, ranging from about 100,000- to 220,000-square-feet, will be in a foreign trade zone and are suited to housing freight forwarders or other logistics operators, Bradford said. Air cargo eventually could be developed on land south of International Drive, to which Trammell Crow also has development rights, he added.
To view the full article, visit Pittsburgh Tribune-Review at http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_617822.html
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Salt Lake City Foreign-Trade Zone Receives Reorganization Approval from U.S. Commerce Department
Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker announced today that Salt Lake City has received approval to reactivate its Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) from the Foreign-Trade Zones Board of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Salt Lake City's zone project is designated FTZ #30.
"This is great news for Salt Lake City and Utah businesses" commented Mayor Becker. "A Foreign-Trade Zone in Utah is a significant advantage to companies who are doing business in international trade or thinking about that opportunity. It is a great complement to the other assets we have in place as a global city."
A Foreign-Trade Zone is a designated site licensed by the U.S. government that offers U.S.-based businesses advantages in competing with foreign firms in international trade. A designated zone can defer, reduce, or eliminate customs duties, improve cash flow, lower inventory costs, and streamline customs procedures.
The Salt Lake City Foreign-Trade Zone is located at a 55 acre site at 1105 South 4800 West and is planned for development of 1.2 million square feet of warehouse, distribution and/or light manufacturing facilities. The newly reactivated zone replaces one that was begun in 1977 at the International Center but has been inactive since 1995. The new FTZ is managed and developed by The Rockefeller Group, an organization with more than 30 years of success in marketing and developing FTZs in the United States.
"We are fortunate to have such an experienced partner as The Rockefeller Group serving as the manager and developer of the zone site" said Bob Farrington, Salt Lake City Economic Development Director. "The Rockefeller Group has the experience, expertise, and motivation to make this work for all concerned."
Brandi Hanback, Managing Director of Rockefeller Group Foreign Trade Zone Services, has been coordinating the Salt Lake City FTZ approval process. She also serves as Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones. The Rockefeller Group will identify future operators and users of the zone and work with those companies to realize FTZ benefits.
"This is a significant benchmark in Utah's international efforts," commented Utah Governor Jon Huntsman upon hearing of Salt Lake City's FTZ approval. "I am convinced that our future growth will be linked to our worldwide trading partners."
To view this article, visit Utah Pulse at http://www.utahpulse.com/featured_article/salt-lake-city-foreign-trade-zone-receives-reorganization-approval-us-commerce-depa
"This is great news for Salt Lake City and Utah businesses" commented Mayor Becker. "A Foreign-Trade Zone in Utah is a significant advantage to companies who are doing business in international trade or thinking about that opportunity. It is a great complement to the other assets we have in place as a global city."
A Foreign-Trade Zone is a designated site licensed by the U.S. government that offers U.S.-based businesses advantages in competing with foreign firms in international trade. A designated zone can defer, reduce, or eliminate customs duties, improve cash flow, lower inventory costs, and streamline customs procedures.
The Salt Lake City Foreign-Trade Zone is located at a 55 acre site at 1105 South 4800 West and is planned for development of 1.2 million square feet of warehouse, distribution and/or light manufacturing facilities. The newly reactivated zone replaces one that was begun in 1977 at the International Center but has been inactive since 1995. The new FTZ is managed and developed by The Rockefeller Group, an organization with more than 30 years of success in marketing and developing FTZs in the United States.
"We are fortunate to have such an experienced partner as The Rockefeller Group serving as the manager and developer of the zone site" said Bob Farrington, Salt Lake City Economic Development Director. "The Rockefeller Group has the experience, expertise, and motivation to make this work for all concerned."
Brandi Hanback, Managing Director of Rockefeller Group Foreign Trade Zone Services, has been coordinating the Salt Lake City FTZ approval process. She also serves as Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones. The Rockefeller Group will identify future operators and users of the zone and work with those companies to realize FTZ benefits.
"This is a significant benchmark in Utah's international efforts," commented Utah Governor Jon Huntsman upon hearing of Salt Lake City's FTZ approval. "I am convinced that our future growth will be linked to our worldwide trading partners."
To view this article, visit Utah Pulse at http://www.utahpulse.com/featured_article/salt-lake-city-foreign-trade-zone-receives-reorganization-approval-us-commerce-depa
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
FTZB Receives Application to Expand Activity in Illinois Zone
The Foreign-Trade Zones Board has received an application from the Tri-City Regional Port District, grantee of FTZ 31, requesting authority on behalf of WRB Refining LLC to expand the scope of manufacturing activity conducted under zone procedures within Subzone 31B at the WRB oil refinery complex at sites in Madison County, Ill. Comments on this application are due by May 19.
The refinery is undergoing an expansion that will add units and upgrade existing units within the subzone boundaries and is expected to expand crude production capacity up to 380,000 barrels per day. Zone procedures would exempt the increased production from customs duty payments on the foreign products used in its exports. On domestic sales of the increased production the company would be able to choose the duty rates for certain petrochemical feedstocks (zero) by admitting foreign crude oil in non-privileged foreign status.
To view this article, visit WorldTrade/Interactive at http://www.strtrade.com/wti/wti.asp?pub=0&story=30574&date=3%2F20%2F2009&company=
The refinery is undergoing an expansion that will add units and upgrade existing units within the subzone boundaries and is expected to expand crude production capacity up to 380,000 barrels per day. Zone procedures would exempt the increased production from customs duty payments on the foreign products used in its exports. On domestic sales of the increased production the company would be able to choose the duty rates for certain petrochemical feedstocks (zero) by admitting foreign crude oil in non-privileged foreign status.
To view this article, visit WorldTrade/Interactive at http://www.strtrade.com/wti/wti.asp?pub=0&story=30574&date=3%2F20%2F2009&company=
Monday, March 23, 2009
Regular County Board Meeting of the Koochiching County Board of Commissioners
In the March 3, 2009 Board Meeting, public comment was made on the County Highway's 332 Project and included information about possible routes to the Foreign Trade Zone. Below are the comments recorded. For a complete transcript of the meeting, visit the The Daily Journal online.
The Board Chair called for public comment at 11:50 a.m. Russ Tilander, an employee of Boise’s Processing Center, stated support for the County’s Highway 332 Project as the Burner Road needs to be vacated to Boise for safety reasons. He informed the Board 120,000 cords of wood cross the Burner Road in a year and the concern of Boise employees working in this area for the public’s safety is increasing as the number of crossings increase. Board members stated that due to concerns expressed by the International Falls business owners last week and learning of the Border Customs expansion study, the Board today appointed members to attend the Custom Station Expansion Study meetings to propose an idea of designing the Custom Station expansion to accommodate a redesign of the bridge line making Highway 53 the feasible route to take to get in the bridge line to Canada, which should alleviate concerns that tourists will use the County’s Highway 332 Route to get in line.
The Board members stated that there are so many interests that have come into play around this road project and the County Board is doing their best to weigh them all. The Highway Engineer stated that he is moving forward on presenting road design plans to satisfy the MNDot Commissioner’s order to submit plans within 60 days, and knowing the City of International Falls is requested denial of the order through the Court of Appeals. Terry Randolph, VFW Commander, informed the Board of upcoming veteran events such as Vietnam Veteran Welcome Home Day, Veterans Loyalty Days and plans to hold another Stand Down. Aarden Barnes asked whether county roads in French Addition were looked at as possible routes to the Foreign Trade Zone.
The Engineer stated that this was looked at when he was asked to review potential routes and it was concluded that this residential area was not conducive to a high truck traffic road. Ms. Barnes asked if the County considered purchasing private property for sale by the Highway 11 Overpass to construct an emergency service road for Ranier and the lake area. Board members stated that talks continue with the railroad and that this option was looked at, however, the estimated cost is high.
The Board Chair called for public comment at 11:50 a.m. Russ Tilander, an employee of Boise’s Processing Center, stated support for the County’s Highway 332 Project as the Burner Road needs to be vacated to Boise for safety reasons. He informed the Board 120,000 cords of wood cross the Burner Road in a year and the concern of Boise employees working in this area for the public’s safety is increasing as the number of crossings increase. Board members stated that due to concerns expressed by the International Falls business owners last week and learning of the Border Customs expansion study, the Board today appointed members to attend the Custom Station Expansion Study meetings to propose an idea of designing the Custom Station expansion to accommodate a redesign of the bridge line making Highway 53 the feasible route to take to get in the bridge line to Canada, which should alleviate concerns that tourists will use the County’s Highway 332 Route to get in line.
The Board members stated that there are so many interests that have come into play around this road project and the County Board is doing their best to weigh them all. The Highway Engineer stated that he is moving forward on presenting road design plans to satisfy the MNDot Commissioner’s order to submit plans within 60 days, and knowing the City of International Falls is requested denial of the order through the Court of Appeals. Terry Randolph, VFW Commander, informed the Board of upcoming veteran events such as Vietnam Veteran Welcome Home Day, Veterans Loyalty Days and plans to hold another Stand Down. Aarden Barnes asked whether county roads in French Addition were looked at as possible routes to the Foreign Trade Zone.
The Engineer stated that this was looked at when he was asked to review potential routes and it was concluded that this residential area was not conducive to a high truck traffic road. Ms. Barnes asked if the County considered purchasing private property for sale by the Highway 11 Overpass to construct an emergency service road for Ranier and the lake area. Board members stated that talks continue with the railroad and that this option was looked at, however, the estimated cost is high.
Fremont tries home-grown stimulus help
FREMONT — City leaders hope a package of incentives they have crafted can jump-start business activity in Fremont.
The incentives can’t come soon enough for the city’s sizable small-business sector, said Dirk Lorenz, owner of Fremont Flowers and Gifts in the city’s Centerville district. A former member of the Fremont Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors, Lorenz said many small-business owners tell him their revenue has dropped 20 percent to 30 percent compared with last year.
City officials hear their pleas. Like their counterparts in the federal government and cities such as Boston, San Francisco and even the tiny burg of Lakeport near Clear Lake, members of the Fremont City Council approved a stimulus package March 3 as a way to counteract one of the worst economic downturns.
The package contains temporary and permanent provisions, including reducing developer impact fees, deferring the collection of those fees, exempting cleantech firms from paying the city’s business license tax, and increasing the city’s efforts to purchase products and services from Fremont businesses. The fee reductions and exemptions for business in the city of will remain in effect until at least Dec. 31, 2011.
Another proposal is to establish a foreign trade zone that would assist the city’s manufacturing sector. If approved the regulations would allow foreign and domestic goods to be brought in without formal customs entry or incurring customs duties, excise taxes or tariffs.
To read the entire article, visit the San Jose Business journal here.
The incentives can’t come soon enough for the city’s sizable small-business sector, said Dirk Lorenz, owner of Fremont Flowers and Gifts in the city’s Centerville district. A former member of the Fremont Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors, Lorenz said many small-business owners tell him their revenue has dropped 20 percent to 30 percent compared with last year.
City officials hear their pleas. Like their counterparts in the federal government and cities such as Boston, San Francisco and even the tiny burg of Lakeport near Clear Lake, members of the Fremont City Council approved a stimulus package March 3 as a way to counteract one of the worst economic downturns.
The package contains temporary and permanent provisions, including reducing developer impact fees, deferring the collection of those fees, exempting cleantech firms from paying the city’s business license tax, and increasing the city’s efforts to purchase products and services from Fremont businesses. The fee reductions and exemptions for business in the city of will remain in effect until at least Dec. 31, 2011.
Another proposal is to establish a foreign trade zone that would assist the city’s manufacturing sector. If approved the regulations would allow foreign and domestic goods to be brought in without formal customs entry or incurring customs duties, excise taxes or tariffs.
To read the entire article, visit the San Jose Business journal here.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Wolverine World Wide warehouses get foreign trade zone status
When Wolverine World Wide Inc. consolidates all its North American distribution in West Michigan, warehouses here technically will be newly designated foreign trade zones.
Distribution centers in Rockford, Cedar Springs and Howard City are in the new subzone, a free-trade status that will save money and eventually, the company said, add jobs.
"In the past we've had to pay duty upon entrance to the U.S.," said Jeff Gorski, senior director of integrated logistics. "When it hits the Port of Seattle or Long Beach (Calif.), we had to pay duty."
That fee ranged from 8 to 36 percent. Now, boxed pairs of shoes will land in the region's distribution centers duty-free, at least for a while.
"We will not pay duty until we ship them out to our end customer in the U.S.," Gorski said.
And if the shoes are bound for feet beyond U.S. borders, the whole duty-paying exercise is avoided. No duty paid inbound; no duty owed outbound.
"The foreign trade zone is a big thing," company spokeswoman Christi Cowdin said.
It will allow us to bring additional jobs to Michigan in support of that."
Wolverine's distribution centers are in a subzone of the general-purpose foreign trade zone for Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon counties.
To read the complete article, see the West Michigan Business online.
Distribution centers in Rockford, Cedar Springs and Howard City are in the new subzone, a free-trade status that will save money and eventually, the company said, add jobs.
"In the past we've had to pay duty upon entrance to the U.S.," said Jeff Gorski, senior director of integrated logistics. "When it hits the Port of Seattle or Long Beach (Calif.), we had to pay duty."
That fee ranged from 8 to 36 percent. Now, boxed pairs of shoes will land in the region's distribution centers duty-free, at least for a while.
"We will not pay duty until we ship them out to our end customer in the U.S.," Gorski said.
And if the shoes are bound for feet beyond U.S. borders, the whole duty-paying exercise is avoided. No duty paid inbound; no duty owed outbound.
"The foreign trade zone is a big thing," company spokeswoman Christi Cowdin said.
It will allow us to bring additional jobs to Michigan in support of that."
Wolverine's distribution centers are in a subzone of the general-purpose foreign trade zone for Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon counties.
To read the complete article, see the West Michigan Business online.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Insourcing Global Trade Management
Most importers and exporters are careful to manage inventory, tariffs and compliance. In a recent survey of trade consultants conducted by Integration Point, every respondent (100%) indicated that their client companies perform denied party screening and recognize foreign trade zones. However, most outsource this work to consultants, freight forwarders or other third party service providers. The cost of internal automation and process control has been too high for most importers and exporters to do on their own. Acquiring and maintaining a trade management system and data has been too much of a burden for smaller companies to adopt on top of their core business needs within manufacturing, sales and marketing and supplier relations.
To read the full article, visit Industry Week Online at www.Industryweek.com.
To read the full article, visit Industry Week Online at www.Industryweek.com.
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