Vessel Repair Duties

Evelyn is the leading lawyer on a law (19 USC 1466) which imposes a 50 per cent ad valorem duty on foreign ship repairs to U.S.-flag vessels. For decades she has counseled clients on the application of the law and assisted clients in the filing of Applications for Relief and Protests. She is thoroughly knowledgeable about the administrative process for the assessment of duties and has successfully challenged duty assessments by Customs & Border Protection numerous times in court.

Image of a red cargo ship getting repairs. Evelyn Suarez is the leading lawyer on vessel repair duties.

Recent News in Vessel Repair Duties

  • CBP Vessel Repair Process Improvement

    U.S.-flag vessel owners and operators are subject to a 50% ad valorem duty for vessel repairs made in foreign shipyards.  Claims for relief that are not adequately presented or documented will be denied relief and assessed the onerous duties.  It is therefore important to adopt processes for the collection of critical documentation in support of claims for relief.  This presentation provides insight from years of experience with administrative applications for relief, protests and litigation as to best practices in the collection of the documentation and presentation of claims. Download the presentation