Tax insight

US announces launch of the Trade Fraud Task Force to pursue customs violations

Insight
3 minute read
September 10, 2025

What happened?

The Department of Justice (DOJ), in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security, announced via a press release dated August 29, the creation of a Trade Fraud Task Force to increase enforcement against customs violations. The task force will pursue duty evasion, smuggling, and other illicit trade activities using a combination of civil and criminal tools, including the Tariff Act of 1930, the False Claims Act, and Title 18 trade fraud and conspiracy provisions. The DOJ also highlighted that enforcement would cover antidumping and countervailing duties, Section 301 tariffs, and potential seizures of prohibited goods.

Why is it relevant?

The creation of the Trade Fraud Task Force is intended to further promote the Trump administration’s “America First Trade Policy” announced on January 20, 2025, and signals a move toward increased scrutiny of import practices and a more coordinated government approach to defend US manufacturing, protect US revenue, and uphold national security. Companies engaged in cross-border trade could face greater enforcement risk, with exposure to both civil penalties and criminal liability. This risk underscores the need for heightened compliance attention in the customs and trade space.

Actions to consider

Companies should review their import reporting and duty payment processes to identify potential vulnerabilities. Strengthening internal controls and documentation practices can help mitigate exposure under this new enforcement initiative. Developing updated strategies on proactive compliance and whistleblower risk management also may be important as the task force begins its work.

For more details, read the PwC Insight linked below.