Importer Beware: Use of False Claims Act Against Trade Violations On the Rise

摘要

Importers, particularly of politically sensitive items such as textiles and apparel, are used to having to navigate a minefield of U.S. laws and regulations that can have significant financial ramifications if violated. Today there is another hazard in their path, one that could blindside them with hefty penalties and a very public hit to their reputation. Use of the False Claims Act to pursue fraudulent avoidance of tariffs and other import charges is on the rise and could affect even those companies striving to do things by the book.