DOJ Launches New Global Trade Fraud Enforcement Section
The US Department of Justice has created a permanent Global Trade & Commerce Enforcement Section and released a new guide with DHS, signaling heightened focus on customs fraud, tariff evasion, and supply-chain integrity.
The U.S. Department of Justice has established the permanent Global Trade & Commerce Enforcement Section to investigate and prosecute criminal import and trade fraud. Working with the Department of Homeland Security, the DOJ also released A Resource Guide to Trade Fraud Enforcement, described as the first comprehensive framework of its kind for these matters. The guide and new section signal a heightened federal priority on combating conduct that undermines US industries, evades tariffs, or introduces illicit goods into supply chains. For corporate counsel, the development highlights increased enforcement risk, particularly through the False Claims Act, which allows for treble damages and is a key tool for pursuing customs fraud and duty underpayments. The governments guidance emphasizes the importance of robust corporate compliance programs, including active supply-chain auditing and verification of partner representations. Companies involved in international trade should review their compliance and disclosure policies in light of the specific priorities and authorities outlined in the new DOJ framework.