Customs has proposed a new rule which would require importers to hold FDA regulated products for up to six months after importation. The present period for conditional release is 30 days. However, the current law also allows for a variety of various actions during the 30 days that can extend the release period indefinitely.

A change that would force importers to hold goods for up to 180 days seems extremely misguided. The variety and number of items subject to FDA intervention is enormous. If Customs moves forward with this rule the effect on trade could be catastrophic.

The full text of the notice is in the Federal Register of June 7,2002, which can be reached by clicking on the following link: http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=2002_register&docid=02-14286-filed

Comments on the proposed rule must be submitted by August 6,2002.