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Assurance Needed That Import Classifications Are Accurate

GGD-81-46 Published: Apr 23, 1981. Publicly Released: Apr 23, 1981.
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Highlights

Proper tariff classification is essential for determining the appropriate import duty, treating importers consistently, and compiling import data for formulating trade policies. GAO reviewed a random sample of 50 entries at each of three Customs Service field offices.

Recommendations

Recommendations for Executive Action

Agency Affected Recommendation Status
Department of the Treasury The Secretary of the Treasury should establish as a top priority a Customs Service improvement program to revitalize the Customs Information Exchange system.
Closed
Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
Department of the Treasury The Secretary of the Treasury should establish as a top priority a Customs Service improvement program to implement the proposed import specialist allocation system.
Closed
Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
Department of the Treasury The Secretary of the Treasury should establish (1) procedures to track individual broker performance in preparing entry submissions for Customs and (2) a program to assist poor performers in reducing their error rates with a provision for using existing punitive measures if sufficient improvements are not made.
Closed
Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
Department of the Treasury The Secretary of the Treasury should establish as a top priority a Customs Service improvement program to implement the proposed headquarters and regional program evaluation system to bring better management and control over import specialists activities.
Closed
Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
Department of the Treasury The Secretary of the Treasury should implement selected entry screening to ensure that complex entries receive detailed specialists' reviews.
Closed
Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.

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Topics

Customs administrationImport regulationInternational economic relationsLaw enforcementPersonnel managementProgram managementTariffsData errorsImport specialistsStatistical data