A new rule changing how import inspection fees are calculated has been temporarily delayed due to a regulatory review ordered by the President on January 20th, 2025.
The rule, originally set to take effect soon, was published on December 30th, 2024. It proposed switching from a per-carlot fee structure to a per-pound basis, reducing fees for additional sublots by 50%, and introducing a new pricing method for smaller shipments. These changes were meant to help the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) recover costs for inspecting imported fresh fruits, vegetables, and other products under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937.
However, to allow further review, the government has put the rule on hold. This decision takes effect immediately upon publication in the Federal Register and does not require public comments due to legal exemptions. Officials will use this time to reassess the rule before moving forward.
For importers, this means that the current fee structure remains in place until further notice.
