USDA Seeks Feedback on Recordkeeping for Exported Apples and Grapes

You might care about this because the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is planning to continue requiring companies that export fresh apples and grapes to keep certain records. This is part of laws called the Export Fruit Acts, which were created to make sure that American-grown apples and grapes sent to other countries meet quality standards. These acts help protect the good name of U.S. produce and stop sellers from misrepresenting the quality of fruit sold overseas. The USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) oversees these acts. They require an "Export Form Certificate" (SC-205) to certify that each shipment has been officially inspected and meets the necessary rules. Exporters must keep copies of this form. The notice explains that this recordkeeping is essential for carrying out these laws. The estimated time for this recordkeeping is very low per response, but it applies to about 200 shippers and carriers, adding up to roughly 9,750 hours per year. The USDA is asking for public comments on whether this recordkeeping is still needed and if the estimated time burden is accurate. This document is particularly interesting because it shows how the government works to maintain quality standards for products sold internationally. It is not about a brand-new rule. Instead, it is about keeping an existing system in place that has been around for many decades. This system helps ensure that U.S. apples and grapes keep their good reputation in foreign markets. It also helps prevent issues like fraud. The request for public comments provides an opportunity for businesses and the public to share their thoughts on these rules. This includes feedback on how much time and effort is involved in keeping these records. This process helps make sure that regulations are fair and effective without causing too much trouble for exporters. It is an example of the continuous review process that happens behind the scenes in government. Those who would be most interested in this legal document are U.S. businesses that export fresh apples and grapes. These companies are directly affected by the recordkeeping rules. Companies that transport these fruits to other countries also need to know about these regulations. Although their specific recordkeeping responsibilities have been reduced in recent years, they are still involved. People who work in agricultural law or international trade might find this notice helpful. It helps them understand how regulations are renewed and how the government handles paperwork burdens. Apple and grape farmers and growers also have an interest. While they do not do the paperwork themselves, these rules help protect the value and reputation of their crops in global markets. Anyone interested in how the government ensures product quality for exports would also find this notice useful.