WASHINGTON—U.S. Customs and Border Protection has collected $3,320,425 from Satisloh, an importer of machinery used in the production of optical lenses after CBP pursued action pursuant to §19 U.S.C. 1592 for customs violations. The company provided false descriptions, tariff classification numbers, and/or duty rates to CBP for the entries of certain machinery and repair parts. The matter was resolved when CBP accepted an offer in compromise submitted by the importer. An offer in compromise is a written offer and deposit of funds to settle civil liability relating to a Government claim arising under customs laws.
“CBP is firmly committed to protecting national economic security by enforcing U.S. trade laws,” said Brenda Smith, Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Trade. “CBP will continue to employ a range of enforcement actions to ensure a fair, safe, and compliant trade system. Civil penalties like this one are a critical tool in our toolbox, and I commend CBP for seeing this penalty through to a collection.”
Under 19 U.S.C. § 1592, CBP has the authority to issue penalty claims against violators for entering, introducing, or attempting to enter or introduce any merchandise into the commerce of the United States by means of false statements or omissions.