Ignorance of the law is no excuse. This shift in emphasis is the result of a dramatic rise in the volume of imports in recent years, while funding for the United States Customs Service has remained roughly constant. Informed compliance boosts the risks that the importer faces, from seizure of goods to potential civil penalties, even criminal liability. Customs has a useful procedure to help the importer meet the standard of informed compliance. If asked, Customs will issue a binding ruling on the classification of particular goods, so that the importer won't face any civil or criminal penalties or time-consuming administrative proceedings.
Duties vary, depending on where the imports originate.
Most favored nations get reduced rates, while others do not, and imports from some other countries are forbidden altogether for political reasons. While international trade involves goods, foreign investment involves money - risking capital in another country in the hope of reaping profits. Several years ago, a Vermont company found a partner in Russia and opened a retail shop there, a classic example of outbound foreign investment. Unfortunately, disagreements grew between the partners. To settle the dispute, the Vermont company filed suit in the local Russian commercial court, where it prevailed.