U.S. Shutdown email

Dear ,As you may be aware, there is increasing speculation about a potential government shutdown in the United States starting on October 1, 2023. This situation arises from the conclusion of the fiscal year and the ongoing debate surrounding the next year's budget.At Sourcify, we recognize that a government shutdown can have significant implications, especially for those involved in international trade, particularly with China. Therefore, we want to assure you that we are diligently monitoring the situation and staying informed about the plans and operations of United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other import regulatory agencies.As of the latest information available, certain activities related to import cargo are expected to continue through the contingency plans established by the relevant government agencies that oversee trade. Here are some key highlights:United States Customs and Border Patrol (CBP): 

• Passenger processing at ports of entry.

• Cargo inspection functions at ports of entry.

• Activities required by law. Establishment of a CBP "war room."

• Regular communication with the trade to report on developments and address concerns.

• Retention of 56% of DHS employees during the contingency plan.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): 

• Review of import entries.

• Exemption of 64% of HHS employees under the contingency plan.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): 

• Preclearing and inspecting fruits, vegetables, and nursery products before shipment to the United States.

• Inspection of commercial birds in approved facilities.

• Response to agricultural emergencies involving pests and diseases.

• Border and coastal protection and surveillance.

• Ongoing Lacey Act review and enforcement.

Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) – Division of USDA: 

• Ensuring the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products.

• Monitoring allied industries to prevent uninspected or adulterated products from entering commerce.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): 

• Activities expressly authorized by law.

• Activities necessarily implied by law.

• Exemption of 7% of EPA employees under the contingency plan.

Rest assured, we are in close communication with relevant industry associations, such as the National Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarder Association, to advocate for a coordinated and effective government effort to address trade processing challenges in the event of a shutdown.Please understand that the situation is dynamic, and circumstances can change rapidly. Sourcify is committed to keeping you informed with regular updates as we receive information from CBP and other agencies.If you have any specific concerns or questions related to your sourcing activities, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to support you and navigate these challenges together.Thank you for your trust in Sourcify as your sourcing partner.