XN000022-1996-08-22 — Page 5

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"The results of Hong Kong Customs' enforcement actions will be shared with the US Customs.

"If the joint teams confirm that a consignment is of Hong Kong origin, the US Customs will lift the single entry bond requirement for the consignment; or if the single entry bond has already been submitted, the US Customs will liquidate the entry and the importer will be relieved of all conditional release obligations," the spokesman said.

The 10 categories in question are dresses (Categories 336/636), skirts (Categories 342/442/642), nightwear (Category 351), underwear (Categories 352/652) and suits (Categories 443/643).

Since June 17, these categories of Hong Kong products have been subject to additional import measures imposed by the US Customs. Such measures include additional requirements in import documentation, the requirement for a single entry bond, and the requirement for joint verification by Hong Kong and US Customs of the origin of consignments.

Hong Kong has objected to unilateral imposition of the additional requirements, pointing out that they are applied to the relevant products only from Hong Kong and are therefore discriminatory.

These measures adversely affect legitimate Hong Kong and US traders, and disrupt Hong Kong/US trade in those products, and infringe on Hong Kong's rights under WTO.

"In the invitation to the US Customs to the 30-day visit programme, Hong Kong maintains this position," the spokesman added.

Traders who wish to have further information on the joint visit programme may refer to the Trade Department's Notice to Exporters No 47/96 and Certificate of Origin Circular No 10/96 issued today, or enquire with the department's Americas Division.

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