Title 19 › CHAPTER 26 — DOMINICAN REPUBLIC-CENTRAL AMERICA FREE TRADE › SUBCHAPTER II — CUSTOMS PROVISIONS › § 4033
Explains when a product can get the lower tariff rates under the CAFTA‑DR trade rules. A product qualifies if it is made entirely in one or more CAFTA‑DR countries, or if it is made in those countries and the parts from other countries either change their tariff classification or meet a regional value‑content test. The regional value‑content (RVC) can be figured two ways: a build‑down method (compare adjusted value to nonoriginating material value) or a build‑up method (compare originating material value to adjusted value). Certain auto parts use a net‑cost method. Values follow normal accounting rules. Imported materials use an adjusted value, local materials follow set valuation rules, and self‑produced materials count production cost plus normal profit. Small amounts of nonoriginating materials may be allowed (usually up to 10% of the product’s value), but there are many exceptions for foods, textiles, and other items. Materials from one CAFTA‑DR country used in another count as originating. Fungible goods can be treated by segregation or by inventory methods like FIFO, LIFO, or averaging, and the chosen method must be used for the fiscal year. Accessories, retail packaging, and packing for shipment are usually treated or ignored in specific ways. Indirect materials (like fuel or tools) are treated as originating. If the product gets extra work outside CAFTA‑DR or leaves customs control, it can lose origin status. Sets must meet origin rules or meet small nonoriginating value limits. Key terms (one line each): Adjusted value — the base value used to calculate RVC; CAFTA‑DR country — the U.S. or the listed Central American and Dominican Republic partners; RVC — regional value‑content percentage; Net cost — total cost minus certain marketing and other costs; Nonoriginating material — a part that does not qualify as originating; Producer — the person who makes the good. The President may add or change tariff rule details and can add fabrics or yarns to special lists after set review periods.
Full Legal Text
Customs Duties, Source: USLM XML via OLRC
Legislative History
Reference
Citation
19 U.S.C. § 4033
Title 19, Customs Duties
Last Updated
Sep 23, 2026
Release point: 119-110