Applies to tradeshows certified under the Trade Fair Act of 1959. A trade fair entry allows shipments to be entered into the U.S. on a temporary basis without penalty if the goods are not re-exported. In lieu of duty, Rogers Worldwide will post a bond on the exhibitor’s behalf. Goods may only remain in the U.S. as temporary imports for ninety days from the commencement date of the show. However, this is often ample time for the exhibitors and their buyers to work out payment and delivery arrangements.
In the absence of the duty exempt status, exhibitors have only three other options. They may import goods on a temporary basis (without the use of a trade fair entry), however, the ability to change this entry to a permanent entry is at the discretion of local Customs authorities and is often accompanied by a penalty in addition to the duty. Some Customs ports do not allow this change in status under any circumstances. Another option for the exhibitors is permanent entry and the payment of duties immediately upon importation. The duty is not refundable even if the goods are re-exported. A third option would be use of an ATA Carnet, which requires mandatory re-exportation to the country of origin.
Some items are excluded from use of the trade fair entry such as explosives, fireworks and other materials, which might be dangerous, injurious or unhealthy. Exhibitors with low value items may find it less expensive to pay duties and file a consumption entry instead of a trade fair entry. The trade fair entry may also be inappropriate for other items such as livestock, foodstuffs, plants or beverages.
Rogers Worldwide Customs Brokerage and International Freight Forwarding
1-702-272-1596, import@rerogers.com, www.rerogers.com
