U.S. Customs Revenue

US Border Searches of Devices: Rising Concerns for Canadians

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reported a significant increase in electronic device searches at border crossings, with an overall rise of nearly 17% from the previous record. From April to June alone, searches were up over 21% from the previous quarter, and 12.6% over the past year. While the agency claims these searches are lawful and necessary for security, immigration lawyers and travelers report heightened scrutiny, including questioning about political views. These stricter practices, along with documented instances of detainment and confiscation of personal belongings, have led some to reconsider travel to the U.S.

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U.S. Customs Revenue Tops $100 Billion: A Tax Paid by Americans?

U.S. customs duties revenue exceeded $100 billion for the first time this fiscal year, largely due to increased tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. The Treasury Department reported $113 billion in customs-duty revenue year-to-date, accompanied by a $27 billion overall surplus in June, contrasting with a deficit from the previous year. These tariffs, aimed at boosting domestic production and addressing trade imbalances, have been applied to various trading partners, including China, Brazil, and Japan, although the fluctuating nature of these policies introduces uncertainty regarding future revenue. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggests the US could collect over $300 billion in tariffs by the end of the year.

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