United States resolves USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism matter at Amphenol Optimize in Nogales, Mexico

The United States announced the resolution of the USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism matter at the Amphenol Optimize México, S.A. de C.V. facility in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, which manufactures automotive and aerospace connectors, cables and components, after the remediation plan addressing employer interference in union activity and retaliatory dismissals was implemented. The facility reinstated nine workers with full backpay and benefits, adopted a neutrality statement and guidelines on freedom of association and collective bargaining, and set up a worker complaint mechanism, while Mexico delivered training, monitored the facility and maintained anonymous reporting channels.

USTR invokes USMCA Rapid Response Mechanism for review of workers' rights at Carolina Performance Fabrics in Mexico

USTR has invoked the USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism and asked Mexico to review whether workers at Carolina Performance Fabrics, S.A. de C.V., a high-performance automotive textile plant in Guanajuato, are being denied freedom of association and collective bargaining. The Trade Representative directed the Secretary of the Treasury to suspend liquidation of unliquidated entries of goods from the Carolina facility. Mexico has 10 days to agree to a review and 45 days from today to complete it. The action follows a September 10, 2026 RRM petition from a Mexican union affiliated with COCENA alleging interference in union activity, harassment, threats and unlawful dismissals.

USTR invokes USMCA Rapid Response Mechanism for review of alleged workers' rights denial at GLM Components Mexico

USTR has invoked the USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism and asked Mexico to review whether workers at GLM Components Mexico, S.A. de C.V., an auto parts facility in Puebla, Mexico, are being denied freedom of association and collective bargaining. The action follows a September 8, 2026 RRM petition from the Sindicato Regeneración Nacional de Trabajadores y Empleados de la República Mexicana "Morenas" and an Interagency Labor Committee determination of sufficient, credible evidence. The Trade Representative has directed the Secretary of the Treasury to suspend liquidation of unliquidated entries of goods from the GLM Components facility.

CBP begins IEEPA tariff refunds for finally liquidated entries via CAPE portal

CBP moves to electronic refunds on Feb. 6, 2026, ending paper checks for customs refunds

CBP states that the U.S. Department of the Treasury will stop issuing paper checks for all CBP refunds on Feb. 6, 2026, unless the recipient has an approved waiver under 31 C.F.R. § 208.4, and that two upgrades to the ACE Secure Data Portal prepare users for the electronic refund process. The changes, outlined in the Interim Final Rule: Electronic Refunds, follow Executive Order 14247 on modernizing federal payments. The first upgrade adds a secure online tool for authorizing electronic refunds and the second simplifies the application process for creating importer accounts.