Notice of Action: Nicaragua's Acts, Policies, and Practices Related to Labor Rights, Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, and the Rule of Law

Brief takeaway: The notice announces new tariffs, phased in over two years, on certain imports from Nicaragua.

What changed: According to the notice, the U.S. Trade Representative determined that appropriate action in this investigation includes imposing a tariff on imported Nicaraguan goods. The notice states this tariff is phased in over two years. The notice frames this action as arising from an investigation related to Nicaragua's labor rights, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law.

Who's affected: The notice names goods imported from Nicaragua that do not originate under the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). The notice does not specify particular product types or HTS chapters/codes in the text provided, and appears to reach all such Nicaraguan-origin goods outside CAFTA-DR treatment.

What to review:
- Review whether your goods are of Nicaraguan origin as defined for this action.
- Confirm with your broker whether your goods originate under CAFTA-DR, which the notice treats differently.
- Check the phase-in schedule and effective dates against your import timing, as the notice describes a two-year phase-in.
- Confirm the applicable tariff treatment and reporting for affected entries with your licensed customs broker or CBP.

This is general information, not legal advice and not a compliance determination — confirm specifics with a licensed customs broker or trade counsel.