US CBP collect "First Sale" data

On August 20, US Customs and Border Protection ("CBP") announced that they will start to collect the statistics of using "First Sale" data in customs declaration. This is an interim rule and first step action for importer declaration requirement utilizing the "First Sale Rule".

The First Sale rule is a beneficial rule for importer because they can save duty amount based on the payment by first shipper to middle men, not by transaction price by importer to middle men.
CBP once tried to eliminate this rule in January 2008, but due to strong opposition from business society, CBP announced the withdrawal of their proposal.

In case an importer use "First Sale" price of goods when they declare in customs, they need to insert a single code "F" on CBP form 7501 at the line item level. This new rule is effective immediately but they have grace period until September 19, that means the input will not be rejected.

By collecting statistics how the First Sale rule affect customs and business, CBP may seek further action for this rule.

(Source: Bryan Cave LLP, International Regulatory Bulletin No. 400 on August 21, 2008 http://www.bryancave.com/bulletins/)