Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The Far East: China, Volume IX

611.9331/3–2849: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot)

Washington, April 12, 1949—3 p. m.

641. For Parker from Treas. At present moment no special action re urtel Shanghai 1010⁴⁴ contemplated by Treas. Action re Communist area exports still being explored State Dept. (See Dept Cirtel April 1).

Customs advises US importers required by law produce consular certified invoice for all imports valued US$100 or more with certain exceptions or post bond for production such certification within 6 months from date entry. Bond set in amount equal value importation plus amount duty if any.

Also advised that in transshipment cases, e.g., Tientsin [to] Hong Kong [to] US route provision exists whereby consular certification given Hong Kong may be refused by Customs if it determines Tientsin goods actually destined US not Hong Kong. In event refusal accept Hong Kong certification, bond must be posted.

Available info policy US exports China strategic items on positive list⁴⁵ controlled in manner consistent US foreign policy and national security. Note export controls applicable strategic items originating US not offshore shipments re which see Deptel 573, April 1.⁴⁶

GATT treatment problems now under study. [Treasury.]

Acheson

44. March 28, 2 p. m., p. 920.
45. The 1A list consisted of items of direct military utility; the 1B list, of capital goods of multi-purpose character. Licenses issued by the Department of Commerce were required for exports of these items to Europe.
46. Post, p. 1002.