Customs Revises Rules for Obtaining Duty Refunds (1)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Treasury Department previewed revised rules that aim to simplify the process for importers to get refunds of duties paid on imported products that are then exported.

The rules, known as duty drawbacks, are scheduled to be published Dec. 18 and address how importers, manufacturers, or exporters may request refunds of up to 99 percent of import duties, taxes, and fees paid on certain imports.

Most of the rules’ provisions took effect Dec. 17, but amendments dealing with excise taxes will take effect on Feb. 18. Duty drawbacks help U.S. manufacturers who export remain ...